Quick and Easy Pretzel Bites with Nutella Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup Nutella
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
7. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 12 inches long. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces and place on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheets.
9. Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
10. While the pretzel bites are baking, make the Nutella dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Nutella and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
11. Serve the pretzel bites warm with the Nutella dipping sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Pretzel bites are a German snack that was originally invented in the 16th century.
• Nutella was invented in 1964 in Italy as a chocolate-hazelnut spread.
• Pretzel bites can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, from savory to sweet.