Soft Pretzel Bites with Popping Pepper Butter 

To prepare pretzel bites: Stir lukewarm water and yeast together in the bowl of a stand mixer fixed with the dough hook. Let stand until bubbles begin to appear on the surface of the water, 1 to 2 minutes. With the mixer set on low, stir in malt syrup, 1 tablespoon melted butter and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add all-purpose flour and whole-wheat flour, 1 cup at a time, gradually increasing the speed to medium, until enough flour is incorporated so that the dough is pliable but not sticky. Knead until the dough comes together in a smooth ball and springs back lightly when touched, about 5 minutes. Coat a large bowl with cooking spray. Add the dough, cover with plastic wrap and let rest in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, 30 to 35 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare butter: Mix butter, pimientos, paprika and salt in a medium bowl or small food processor until completely blended. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Coat the parchment with cooking spray. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.

Meanwhile, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about ½ inch in diameter and 12 inches long. Cut each rope into 6 pieces.

Stir baking soda into the boiling water. Working with 6 pieces at a time, drop the bites into the boiling water for no more than 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon, draining off any excess water, to a clean kitchen towel to dry off. Transfer the bites to a prepared baking sheet and sprinkle each with a little coarse salt. Repeat with the remaining pretzel bites.

Bake the pretzel bites until golden brown, 15 to 18 minutes. Transfer to a rack and let cool. Serve warm or at room temperature with the butter and culinary crystals. Dip a pretzel bite in the butter, then sprinkle with a few crystals.