Crab Pretzel Bites

Steps

1. Make the dough through the first rise (or let store-bought dough come to room temperature).
2. Heat oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
3. Pinch off walnut-sized pieces of dough and roll into balls, about 36 of them.
4. Boil the bites in batches, 20-30 seconds, then transfer to a parchment-lined sheet. Sprinkle with pretzel salt.
5. Bake 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes. They should be just warm, not hot.
6. Mix the crab topping: fold crabmeat, cream cheese, mayo, Old Bay, Dijon, and lemon together gently.
7. Split each bite in half horizontally (a serrated knife works best). Spoon on a dollop of crab mixture, sprinkle with cheese.
8. Return to the oven 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts. Dust with Old Bay and serve warm.

Tips from the test kitchen

• A melon baller or small cookie scoop keeps the bites uniform so they bake evenly.
• These are best fresh, but you can bake the plain bites a day ahead and top them just before serving.
• Set out extra Old Bay and hot sauce. People have strong opinions and you should let them live.