Description

This Pretzels and Cheese Dip recipe is the perfect combination of homemade soft pretzels and creamy cheese dip. Ideal for game days, parties, or family gatherings, these pretzels are baked to golden perfection and paired with a rich, flavorful cheese sauce. With options to customize the dip’s flavor, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become your go-to snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Bites:

1 1/2 cups lukewarm water

2 1/4 teaspoons instant rise yeast (1/4 oz packet)

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups all-purpose flour (use more as needed for dough consistency)

1/2 cup baking soda (for boiling)

1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Coarse salt, for sprinkling

For the Cheese Dip:

2 1/4 cups whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup flour

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Optional Flavor Additions and Toppings:

1 jalapeño, seeded and diced

2 tablespoons hot sauce

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon mustard

2 tablespoons horseradish

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Dough

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm water for 1 minute. Add melted butter, brown sugar, and salt; stir well.

Gradually add 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing by hand or with a stand mixer. Add the remaining 3/4 cup flour until dough is thick but not sticky.

Knead the dough for 2 minutes, then let it rest in an oiled bowl for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Shape and Boil the Pretzel Bites

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding 1/2 cup baking soda.

Divide the dough into six parts. Roll each into a rope and cut into 1-1/2 inch pieces.

Boil pretzel bites for 20 seconds, then transfer to baking sheets. Repeat until all are boiled.

Step 3: Bake the Pretzel Bites

Brush pretzel bites with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbles form (do not boil).

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 2-3 minutes.

Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Optionally, add jalapeño, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, mustard, and horseradish for extra flavor.

Notes

Dough Rest: Allow the dough to rest to make it easier to work with.

Boiling Tip: Don’t skip the baking soda bath – it gives the pretzels their classic chewy texture and deep brown color.

Cheese Sauce Variations: Adjust the heat of the cheese sauce with different hot sauces or spices depending on your preference.

Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American