Buttery Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Buttery Air Fryer Pretzel Bites are everything you love about classic soft pretzels, yet faster, easier, and made right at home. First, the dough comes together with simple pantry staples. Then, after a quick baking-soda bath, the bites air fry into golden perfection. As a result, you get crisp edges with soft, chewy centers every single time.

Meanwhile, the air fryer delivers bakery-style results without deep frying. Because of this, these pretzel bites are perfect for game days, cozy weekends, or effortless entertaining. Even better, they pair beautifully with cheese sauce, mustard, or simply melted butter.

Interestingly, pretzels date back over a thousand years and were once baked as rewards for good behavior. Today, they remain beloved for their comforting texture and irresistible saltiness. So, whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something warm and nostalgic, these pretzel bites always hit the spot.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings (about 36–42 pretzel bites)

INGREDIENTS

2¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup baking soda
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
1 tsp coarse sea salt
6 cups water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Activate the yeast:
First, add warm water, yeast, and sugar to a large bowl. Stir gently, then let rest for 5–7 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough:
Next, add flour, salt, and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms, then knead 3–4 minutes until smooth.

3. Rest and shape:
Afterward, cover and rest dough for 10 minutes. Then, divide into ropes and cut into 1-inch bites.

4. Baking soda bath:
Meanwhile, bring water to a simmer and carefully add baking soda. Drop pretzel bites in batches for 20 seconds, then remove.

5. Air fry:
Arrange bites in a single layer in the air fryer. Air fry at 375°F for 7–9 minutes until deeply golden.

6. Finish and serve:
Immediately brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Serve warm.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• For extra chew: Let the dough rest slightly longer, since relaxed gluten creates that classic pretzel bite texture.
• For even browning: Space pretzel bites apart, because airflow ensures consistent color and crisp edges.
• For gourmet flavor: Use flaky sea salt or pretzel salt, which sticks better and enhances contrast.