7UP Glazed Pretzel Bites -Salty & Sweet

Want to recreate that irresistible mall-style pretzel magic right in your own kitchen? Then you need to take a look at this 7Up Glazed Pretzel bites recipe.

This recipe masterfully blends sweet and salty flavors for a snack that’s truly unforgettable.

The kind that fills your home with a warm, buttery aroma and delivers that perfect chewy texture.

Indeed, we’re taking the classic soft pretzel and giving it a unique, delicious twist.

You might think making these from scratch is complicated, but it’s surprisingly straightforward.

In about an hour, you can transform simple ingredients into golden, bite-sized pieces of joy.

These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family treat.

The best part is the versatility. You can keep them classic with a sprinkle of salt or explore a sweet cinnamon sugar coating.

The signature glaze, however, is what makes this creation stand out from any ordinary snack.

Ready to dive in?

Let’s go!

Key Takeaways

This recipe combines sweet and salty flavors for a unique homemade snack.
The process is simpler than it looks and takes about one hour from start to finish.
You can customize the flavor with different toppings like coarse salt or cinnamon sugar.
This method yields a large batch, perfect for sharing with a crowd.
The final result rivals popular mall pretzels with a chewy crust and soft interior.
These are ideal for various occasions, from movie nights to game day gatherings.

Recipe for Salty & Sweet 7Up Glaze Pretzel Bites

Here is the recipe to make Salty & Sweet 7Up Glaze Pretzel Bites.

These are soft, chewy pretzel bites dipped in a buttery 7Up glaze that gives them a sweet sparkle.

Perfect for parties, game nights, and holiday snacking!

⭐ Yield: ~60 pretzel bites

⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour (including rising)

Ingredients

Pretzel Dough

1 cup (240 ml) warm water (110–115°F / 43–46°C)
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 tbsp granulated sugar
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt

For Boiling

6 cups (1.4 L) water
⅓ cup (65 g) brown sugar

For Egg Wash

1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp water

The 7Up Glaze

¼ cup (60 ml) 7Up soda
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
Stir gently and let sit for 5–7 minutes, until foamy.

Make the Dough

Add to the activated yeast:
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Stir using a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl and let dough rise for 20–30 minutes.

Shape the Pretzel Bites

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Divide into 4 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rope about 20–22 inches long.
Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to form pretzel bites.

Boil the Pretzel Bites

In a large pot, bring to a simmer:
- 6 cups water
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
Working in batches, add pretzel bites and boil for 30–35 seconds.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake

Brush pretzel bites with egg wash.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, until deep golden brown.

Make the 7Up Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together:
- ¼ cup 7Up
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Whisk until smooth and slightly thick (add more powdered sugar if needed).

Glaze the Pretzel Bites

While the pretzel bites are still warm, dip the tops into the 7Up glaze.
Let set for 10 minutes, or enjoy immediately for max deliciousness!

Tips for Best Results

Boiling in brown sugar water adds the classic pretzel color and chew.
Serve warm. The glaze shines and the bites stay soft.
For extra sweetness, drizzle additional glaze over the finished bites.
Add flaky salt before baking if you want a stronger salty-sweet contrast.

Understanding the Recipe: 7UP Glazed Pretzel Bites

There’s something magical about that familiar scent of warm baked goods that instantly transports you back to carefree days at the shopping center.

This recipe captures that exact feeling in your own kitchen.

The Story Behind This Delicious Treat

Remember walking through the mall and being drawn toward that irresistible aroma? The warm, buttery scent promised soft, chewy snacks that felt like a special treat.

Now you can recreate that experience anytime.

Home bakers everywhere are discovering this method. One enthusiast shared they’ve made these three times in a single month because their family keeps requesting them.

Even beginners find success with this approach.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

The secret lies in the unique glaze that adds subtle sweetness and beautiful shine.

Unlike traditional methods, this version uses a special ingredient that creates exceptional texture.

You’ll appreciate the time efficiency. These require just one quick rise instead of multiple waiting periods. In about an hour, you’ll have fresh, golden results.

The versatility makes this recipe stand out. You can create classic salty versions or experiment with cinnamon sugar coatings.

Each batch offers options for different tastes.

Gathering Ingredients and Essential Tools

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need within easy reach.

Proper preparation makes the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Core Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

The yeast needs warm water around 110°F to activate properly. Too hot will kill it, while too cold won’t wake it up.

Your flour provides the structure, while sugar feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness. Butter brings richness to the dough.

Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Success

You’ll need a large mixing bowl for your dough preparation.

A stand mixer with dough hook makes kneading easier, but strong arms work too.

Have baking sheets ready with parchment paper.

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

For dietary needs, use vegan butter instead of regular butter. Maple syrup can replace honey.

The recipe works beautifully with these swaps. Always use freshly grated cheese for smooth sauces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pretzel Bites

Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something amazing? This hands-on section guides you through each stage of transforming your ingredients into golden delights.

Preparing the Dough and Letting It Rise

Start by dissolving your yeast in warm water in a large bowl. Stir for about one minute until bubbly. This confirms your yeast is active and ready to work.

Add salt, sugar, and melted butter to the mixture. Gradually mix in flour one cup at a time. Your dough should become thick and no longer sticky.

Test the dough by poking it with your finger. If it bounces back, it’s perfect.

Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for three minutes.

Form the dough into a smooth ball. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 30-45 minutes.

Wait until it reaches doubled size.

Boiling, Shaping, and Egg Washing Process

Once your dough has doubled in size, preheat your oven to 425°F. Prepare the baking soda bath by bringing water to a boil with baking soda dissolved in it.

Divide your risen dough into six equal sections. Roll each into long ropes about 20-22 inches. Cut these into bite-sized pieces of 1-1.5 inches.

Working in small batches, drop 10-12 pieces into the boiling soda bath. Let them sit for 20-30 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon.

Place the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with an egg wash made from one egg and water. This creates a beautiful golden sheen.

Baking Instructions for a Golden Finish

Place your baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.

Watch carefully during the final minutes. The tops should turn a gorgeous golden color. The bottoms will develop a deeper brown shade.

Your homemade snacks are now ready for the finishing touches. The baking process creates that perfect chewy texture everyone loves.

Enhancing Flavors with Glaze and Seasonings

Now comes the fun part where you get to customize your creation. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple baked dough into extraordinary treats.

You have delicious options to explore. Each method adds its own special touch.

Preparing the 7UP Glaze for a Unique Twist

The signature coating is surprisingly simple. Gently heat the soda in a small saucepan. This helps concentrate its flavor.

Whisk in powdered sugar and a bit of melted butter. Keep stirring until the mixture is perfectly smooth. You’ll get a glossy, pourable glaze.

Drizzle it over your warm snacks or serve it on the side for dipping. This sweet, shiny finish is what makes them stand out.

Cinnamon Sugar and Salt: The Perfect Finishing Touch

For a classic sweet coating, melt a quarter cup of butter. In another bowl, mix three-quarters of a cup of sugar with three teaspoons of cinnamon.

Dip each warm piece into the butter first. Then, roll it generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This ensures a full, even coating.

If you love the traditional savory style, try this. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the dough while it’s still damp from the baking soda bath.

The salt sticks perfectly during baking.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose your finishing style:

Finishing Style	Key Ingredient	Best For
Sweet Glaze	Powdered Sugar	A glossy, sweet dip or drizzle
Cinnamon Sugar	Ground Cinnamon	A warm, spiced sweetness
Classic Salt	Coarse Sea Salt	Traditional savory flavor

Feel free to get creative. Add pumpkin spice to your sugar mixture for a fall twist. You can even make a split batch to please everyone.

Baking Tips and Serving Suggestions

Getting that perfect golden-brown finish and chewy texture is easier than you think with a few simple baking secrets.

These final touches ensure your homemade snacks are a hit every time.

Pay close attention to your oven, as temperatures can vary. Check your bites around the 12-minute mark to prevent over-browning.

A brief 20-minute rest after shaping allows the dough to relax for a better texture.

Expert Tips for Consistent Results

This recipe makes a large batch. You can easily halve it for smaller groups. Remember to allow the dough to rest after shaping for about 20 minutes.

This step is crucial for a smooth surface.

Always check your oven’s accuracy. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. This prevents the bottom from getting too dark.

Serving, Dipping, and Storage Ideas

Serve your warm snacks with a variety of dips for a crowd-pleasing platter. A classic cheese sauce or a sweet cream cheese dip are fantastic choices.

For the cheese sauce, melt butter and whisk in flour for two minutes. Slowly add milk, then stir in freshly grated cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.

For a sweet option, blend softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar. This creates a smooth, delicious dip.

Dip Type	Key Ingredient	Prep Time
Cheese Sauce	Freshly Grated Cheddar	About 5 minutes
Cream Cheese Dip	Powdered Sugar	Under 5 minutes

Store any leftovers in a sealed bag in the fridge for up to three days.

A quick 10-second microwave warm-up brings back that fresh-from-the-oven quality. You can also freeze the baked snacks for up to a month.

Unforgettable Sweet & Savory Treats

With this recipe complete, you hold the key to making unforgettable treats that combine the best of sweet and savory flavors.

These homemade snacks deliver that perfect chewy crust and soft interior you love from professional bakeries.

All this magic happens in your kitchen in about one hour.

The process may involve several steps, but each one is straightforward and rewarding. You can customize the final coating to suit any taste preference.

Choose between a sweet glaze, cinnamon sugar, or traditional coarse salt.

This approach uses simple pantry staples like flour, yeast, and warm water. The key techniques ensure success every time.

Properly activating your yeast and allowing the dough to rise fully creates that perfect texture.

You’ll love serving these warm pieces at gatherings or freezing some for later.

Whether you’re craving nostalgic bakery flavors or want to impress guests, this recipe delivers delicious results that will please everyone.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of soda in the glaze?

While the 7UP gives the glaze its unique, bright flavor, you can experiment with other clear sodas like Sprite or Sierra Mist. The citrus notes are key to balancing the sweetness.

My dough isn’t rising. What could be wrong?

The most common issue is the yeast. Make sure your warm water is between 105-115°F. Water that’s too hot will kill the yeast, and water that’s too cool won’t activate it properly. Also, check the expiration date on your yeast packet.

Why do I need to boil the dough before baking?

The quick dip in a baking soda bath is the secret to that classic, chewy texture and dark golden-brown crust you love in soft pretzels. It’s a crucial step for authentic results!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! After the first rise, you can punch the dough down, place it in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and continuing with the recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

For the best texture, store any leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to make them soft again. They are best enjoyed fresh.

Can I freeze these pretzel bites?

Yes, you can freeze them before adding the glaze. After baking and cooling, place the plain bites in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven. Add the glaze after reheating.