These air fryer pretzel bites from Kalejunkie are snack perfection—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and finished with melted butter and pretzel salt. They come together in just about 10 minutes and require simple pantry ingredients. Ideal for game day, after‑school treats, or whenever you're craving something buttery and warm, they deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, skipping the traditional boiling step makes this a faster and just-as-delicious version of homemade pretzel bites. Perfect for dunking in mustard, queso, or slathering with cheese.
Pretzel dough (makes about 6 servings):
• 2 cups warm water (about 110 °F)
• 4 cups all‑purpose flour
• 2 – 2.5 tsp quick‑rise yeast
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
Finishing:
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• Pretzel salt, optional
Heat water to about 110 °F (warm, not hot). Add yeast, whisk, and let sit briefly.
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Pour in yeast-water and stir until a thick dough forms—add a bit more water if needed, but keep it not too sticky.
Sprinkle flour on a countertop, divide dough into 8 pieces, roll into ropes, then slice into ~1‑inch pieces.
Spray air fryer basket with oil. Arrange bites in a single layer, leaving space between each.
Brush tops with melted butter, then air fry at 400 °F for about 7 minutes, until lightly browned.
Remove, brush once more with butter, and sprinkle with pretzel salt if using.
Serve warm with mustard, cheese dip, or as desired.
Calories: ~394 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~68 g
Protein: ~11 g
Fat: ~8–9 g (saturated ~5 g)
Fiber: ~4 g
Sugars: ~2 g
Sodium: ~250–450 mg