Introduction
Craving something soft, salty, and utterly satisfying? Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip are a mouthwatering snack that’s perfect for game days, parties, or weekend cravings. These bite-sized golden pretzels are soft on the inside, chewy on the outside, and pair perfectly with a warm, creamy cheese dip. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious step-by-step recipe.
Ingredients
For Pretzel Bites:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ⅓ cup baking soda (for water bath)
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
For Cheese Dip:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp preferred)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir and let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy and activated.
Step 2: Make the Pretzel Dough
- Add salt, melted butter, and flour to the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Pretzel Bites
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into long ropes and cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Soda Water Bath
- Boil 6 cups of water in a large pot and add baking soda.
- Gently drop pretzel bites into the water bath (10–15 pieces at a time) for about 30 seconds.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Pretzel Bites
- Brush the boiled pretzel bites with beaten egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Cheese Dip
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking continuously.
- Add shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm, soft pretzel bites with the creamy cheese dip.Perfect for
parties, movie nights, or game-day snacks!
Tips and Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to your cheese dip.
- Sweet Option: Skip the salt and coat pretzel bites with cinnamon sugar for a dessert version.
- Dips Variety: Try mustard dip, ranch, or beer cheese sauce.
- Make Ahead: Freeze the dough after shaping, and boil/bake when needed.
Nutritional Information
(Approx. per serving – 6–8 bites + dip):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g