These soft, bite-size salted pretzels are filled with a buttery caramel candy. If you like sweet-and-salty treats, these are perfect for you! They’ll stay fresh if stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To prepare the pretzels, stir together the water, sugar, oil, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in the yeast, and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes or until frothy. Mix in the flour, ½ cup at a time, until a dough forms that begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface, and knead for 3-5 minutes or until the dough springs back most of the way when you gently press your index finger into it. Let the dough rest while completing the next step.
Line a baking sheet with foil, and generously coat with nonstick cooking spray. Slice the caramel squares into quarters.
Evenly divide the dough into 32 pieces. Working with 1 piece at a time, roll it into a ball, flatten, and place a caramel piece in the center. Fold the dough over the caramel, pinch to seal, and roll into a ball. Place the dough onto a well-floured surface while filling the rest of the dough.
Preheat the oven to 400°F. To prepare the wash, add the baking soda to a medium bowl, and pour in the hot water. Stir to fully dissolve the baking soda.
Working with 2-3 pretzel bites at a time, place them onto a slotted spatula or spoon, and briefly dip them into the wash. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake the pretzel bites at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, or until light golden brown. Cool on the pan for at least 5 minutes.
Notes: Regular active and instant yeast both work.
{low fat, low calorie}
Recipe by Amy's Healthy Baking at https://amyshealthybaking.com/blog/2015/02/17/caramel-filled-pretzel-bites/