Homemade Pretzel Bites with a creamy cheddar cheese dipping sauce are your new favorite appetizer.
Combine yeast and water in a stand mixer. Rest for 1 minute. Add salt, sugar, and butter and mix. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time on low speed. If sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Knead 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 and line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats. 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 water with baking soda. Drop 8-10 pretzel bites, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 20 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet.
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.
Serve warm with cheese sauce and enjoy!