Costco’s Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites are a crowd-pleasing snack. These soft, bite-sized pretzels come with cheese and mustard dips, perfect for parties or quick bites. They’re a hit for their fluffy texture and versatile flavor.
Sold in a 1.03-kilogram box for about $18.99 Canadian, they include 50 pretzel bites. Found in the refrigerated deli section, they’re ready in minutes. The package offers two dipping sauces, adding fun to every bite.
This guide provides clear Costco pretzel bites cooking instructions. From oven to air fryer, we’ll cover the best methods, plus tips for crispiness and storage. Let’s make these pretzels a delicious, hassle-free treat.
Why Choose Costco Pretzel Bites?
Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites are soft and chewy with a slightly crispy exterior. Each 107-gram serving has 310 calories, making them a satisfying snack. They’re ideal for game days, potlucks, or family gatherings.
The box includes two bags of 25 bites, plus cheese and honey mustard dips. The dips add bold flavor, though some prefer the mustard. At $18.99, they’re a bit pricey but convenient.
These pretzels are refrigerated, with a best-before date of about three weeks. They’re easy to prepare and kid-friendly. Let’s explore the preparation process.
Understanding Costco Pretzel Bites
Costco’s Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites are made with wheat flour, water, soybean oil, and yeast. The cheese dip includes cheddar, cream cheese, and parmesan for a creamy texture. The honey mustard dip blends creole mustard, mayonnaise, and honey.
Each box (item number 1865526) contains 50 bites in two bags. The pretzels are plain, but a salt packet is included for customization. They’re not gluten-free due to wheat flour.
The dips are polarizing—mustard is a fan favorite, while cheese gets mixed reviews. Proper cooking ensures a fluffy interior and golden crust. Let’s dive into the cooking methods.
Costco Pretzel Bites Cooking Instructions
Preparing Costco pretzel bites is quick and simple. Below are the detailed Costco pretzel bites cooking instructions for oven, air fryer, and microwave methods. Follow these for a crispy, soft result every time.
Oven Method
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place frozen pretzel bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Brush with melted butter or water and sprinkle with the included salt packet, if desired.
Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and heated through to 165°F internally. Flip halfway for even browning. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving with dips.
This method delivers a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. For extra crunch, use a pizza stone preheated with the oven. Serve hot for the best texture.
Air Fryer Method
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange frozen pretzel bites in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overlap. Lightly brush with melted butter or spray with cooking oil, then sprinkle with salt if desired.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and 165°F internally. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. This method ensures a crispy, chewy texture.
Avoid overcrowding for even cooking. The air fryer is a favorite for quick, crunchy results. Pair with mustard or cheese dip for maximum flavor.
Microwave Method
Place 5-10 frozen pretzel bites on a microwave-safe plate. Lightly brush with water and sprinkle with salt, if using. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds per 5 bites, checking for 165°F internally.
Cover with a damp paper towel to keep them soft. Let stand for 1 minute before serving. This method is fastest but may yield a softer texture.
Adjust times based on your microwave’s wattage. Heat dips separately for 30 seconds on high. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Times and Temperatures Table
| Method | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 5-7 min | 425°F (165°F internal) |
| Air Fryer | 6-8 min | 380°F (165°F internal) |
| Microwave | 30-45 sec per 5 bites | High (165°F internal) |
Tips for Perfect Costco Pretzel Bites
These tips ensure crispy, flavorful pretzel bites. They’re simple and make a big difference. Follow them for the best results.
- Use Melted Butter: Brush with melted butter instead of water before salting. This adds richness and helps salt stick better.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange bites in a single layer in the air fryer or oven. This ensures even heat distribution for a crispy crust.
- Heat Dips Separately: Warm cheese and mustard dips in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Stir well for a smooth, dippable consistency.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. A golden exterior and soft interior indicate they’re ready.
Enhancing Your Pretzel Bites
Costco pretzel bites are tasty, but you can elevate them. These additions add flavor and fun. Try them for a personalized snack.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle chili powder or cayenne after brushing with butter. Serve with a spicy queso dip for extra heat. This adds a bold kick.
Sweet Option: Toss with cinnamon sugar instead of salt after cooking. Pair with a cream cheese dip for a dessert-like treat. Kids love this variation.
Garlic Boost: Brush with garlic butter before cooking and sprinkle with parmesan. This creates a savory, aromatic bite. Serve with marinara for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Costco pretzel bites are perfect for many occasions. They pair well with simple or creative sides. Here are some serving ideas.
- Game Day Platter: Serve with wings, veggie sticks, and extra mustard dip. Add ranch or buffalo sauce for variety. Ideal for sports watch parties.
- Kid-Friendly Snack: Pair with apple slices or carrot sticks for a balanced treat. The small bites are perfect for little hands.
- Party Appetizer: Arrange with mozzarella sticks and mini sliders. Include a variety of dips like queso or marinara. Great for holiday gatherings.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage keeps pretzel bites fresh. Follow these steps for best results. They’re simple and maintain quality.
Store unheated bites in their original bags in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. After cooking, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Avoid freezing after cooking to prevent sogginess.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Microwave on medium for 20-30 seconds, but expect a softer texture. Ensure 165°F internally.
Why Costco Pretzel Bites Stand Out
Costco’s Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites are a convenient, crowd-pleasing snack. The 50-count box is perfect for parties or family snacking. At $18.99, they’re pricier but save time compared to homemade.
The included dips add variety, with the honey mustard earning high praise. The air fryer method makes them exceptionally crispy. They’re a fun, low-effort treat for any occasion.
Their fluffy texture and quick prep time rival gastropub offerings. Kids and adults love them, especially with creative dips. Enjoy a stadium-style snack at home.
Summary
Costco’s Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites are a delicious, easy-to-prepare snack for parties or quick bites. Using the Costco pretzel bites cooking instructions, you can heat them in the oven, air fryer, or microwave for a crispy, soft result. Tips like using melted butter and heating dips separately enhance flavor. Pair with fun sides or dips and store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. This guide ensures your pretzel bites are a tasty, hassle-free hit every time.
FAQ
How do I know when Costco pretzel bites are done?
Check for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F. The bites should be crispy outside and soft inside. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Can I cook Costco pretzel bites from refrigerated state?
Yes, cook straight from the fridge as they’re sold refrigerated. Follow the same oven, air fryer, or microwave instructions. No thawing is needed.
What’s the best way to make Costco pretzel bites crispy?
Use the air fryer at 380°F for 6-8 minutes, brushing with melted butter. Flip halfway and avoid overcrowding. The oven at 425°F also works well.
How should I store leftover Costco pretzel bites?
Store unheated bites in the fridge for 3 weeks or cooked leftovers for 2-3 days in an airtight container. Reheat to 165°F. Avoid freezing after cooking.
Can I improve the cheese dip for Costco pretzel bites?
Mix the cheese dip with a splash of milk and heat for 30-45 seconds. Add hot sauce or herbs for flavor. Alternatively, use your own queso or marinara.