Brew-and-Bake: Surprising Beer-Infused Baked Goods for Minnesota Tastes

Hey there, Minnesota bakers! Ever thought about combining your love for baking with a good ol' Minnesota craft beer? Well, buckle up, because we've got a recipe that's going to knock your wool socks off! These Beer-Infused Pretzel Bites are the perfect blend of savory, soft, and a touch of hoppy goodness!

Beer-Infused Pretzel Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups warm beer (any Minnesota craft beer you love)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tbsp water
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

For the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, mix warm beer, yeast, and sugar; let it sit until it becomes foamy (about 5 minutes).
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter; mix until the dough pulls away from the bowl (use your hands or a dough hook).
3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and cut into 1-inch bites.
4. Drop each bite into the boiling water and boil for 30 seconds; remove with a slotted spoon and place on baking sheets.
5. Brush each pretzel bite with egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Beer-Infused Pretzel Bites warm with a side of mustard or cheese dip. Perfect for snacking during a game night or a cozy afternoon with friends! Enjoy with your favorite Minnesotan brew for the ultimate experience.