Parmesan Pretzel Bites

Ingredients

Pretzel Bites
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons local honey
• 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted
• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup shaved parmesan
Water Bath
• 8 cups water
• 1/4 cup baking soda
Dressing
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup shaved parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

1. In the bowl of the stand mixer, combine the warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast on top, and let stand for 5-10 minutes.
2. Once the yeast has become frothy, add the butter, flour, parmesan and salt to the mixture. Use the dough hook attachment and mix on low until the mixture is combined, then increase the speed to a medium intensity, beating the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes pliable, but still tacky.
3. When the dough reaches this point, transfer it from the stand mixer to a large greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 45 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.
4. Once the dough has doubled in size, preheat the oven to 350°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Cut the dough into bite-sized pieces, rolling in your hands to form them into balls. Set aside on a greased plate (or baking sheet.) Let these rest for 10 minutes before proceeding.
6. In a large pot over high heat, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil, and add the baking soda when the water is at a rolling boil.
7. When the water is boiling, and the pretzel bites have rested, add a few at a time to the boiling water, and cook for 30 seconds. (This doesn't have to be exact, so don't fret if your pretzels are in the bath for a bit longer than 30 seconds.)
8. Remove the pretzel bites from the water using a slotted spoon, and line on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining pretzel bites.
9. Once all have been boiled, brush with the egg.
10. Transfer the pretzel bites to the oven, cooking for 10 minutes.
11. Remove the pretzel bites from the oven after 10 minutes, and sprinkle the tops with the additional shaved parmesan. Place back in the oven, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
12. When the pretzel bites have finished baking, remove from the oven and enjoy warm! (We recommend trying them with spicy mustard or a marinara sauce, depending on your mood.)