Turmeric Free Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
Soft, chewy, and golden-brown with a satisfying salty crust, these air fryer pretzel bites deliver everything you love about a classic ballpark snack — right from your own kitchen. The baking soda bath is the secret weapon here, giving each little bite that signature pretzel chew and deep mahogany color without any complicated techniques. A quick egg wash and a generous shower of coarse salt before air frying locks in that glossy, bakery-style finish. Many store-bought pretzel snacks include spice blends or colorings that can be hard to vet, so making them from scratch with this short, straightforward ingredient list keeps things simple and stress-free. The air fryer does a remarkable job of crisping the outside while keeping the inside pillowy and tender — no deep-frying required. Dip them in yellow mustard straight out of the basket and they disappear fast, so consider making a double batch.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
For the dough
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°f / 43°c)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the baking soda bath
- 6 cups water
- ⅓ cup baking soda
For finishing
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1–2 tbsp coarse pretzel salt or flaky sea salt
For serving
- ½ cup yellow mustard (optional)
Can be omittedyellow mustard
Instructions
- 1
Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl and let stand for 5–7 minutes, until the surface is foamy and the mixture smells yeasty.
- 2
Add the flour, fine salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 4–5 minutes, until the dough is smooth, slightly tacky, and springs back when poked. Return to the bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and rest for 10 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!