Homemade Pretzel Bites

For the pretzel bites:
Add yeast and water to a stand mixer with the dough hook attached or a large bowl if mixing by hand. Stir and allow to rest for 1 minute. Add salt, sugar and butter to the stand mixer and stir until combined. Add in flour, 1 cup at a time on low speed. If dough is still sticking to the bottom add more flour. I do a tablespoon at a time.

Knead the dough for 5 minutes in the stand mixer. (If you do not have a stand mixer, knead by hand.) Shape into a ball and place the dough in a large bowl lightly coated in oil. Cover with a kitchen towel and place in a warm area for 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two large baking sheets with silicone baking mats. Set aside.

Cut dough into 6 sections. Roll each section into a long rope, about 20 inches long. Cut into 1 1/2 inch bite size pieces.

Boil 9 cups of water with the baking soda. Drop 8-10 pretzel bites into the water at a time, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 20 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the bites aren’t touching.

Combine the egg and water and whisk until combined. Brush egg wash over each pretzel bite. Sprinkle with sea salt and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes on the pan. Serve with cheese sauce and enjoy!

For the cheese sauce:
Melt butter in a medium saucepan. Add flour and whisk until combined. Continue to whisk for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until thickened, 2–3 minutes. Take off of the heat and stir in cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.