These pretzel bites are soft, chewy, and perfect for snacking! They are golden brown and wonderfully dipped in a creamy cheddar sauce that you’ll want to lick clean!
Honestly, who can resist warm pretzels and cheesy goodness? I love serving these at parties or just for family movie night. They always disappear quickly! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Water: Essential for activating the yeast. Use filtered water for the best results. If you don’t have a thermometer, the water should feel warm to the touch but not hot.
Active Dry Yeast: This gives the dough its rise. If you’re out, you can use instant yeast in the same amount, but there’s no need to dissolve it in water first.
All-Purpose Flour: This creates the dough’s structure. For a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix instead.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over salt levels. Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free option!
Coarse Sea Salt: This adds flavor and texture. If unavailable, pretzel salt or kosher salt can work, but adjust the amount since they can vary in size.
How Do I Get Perfectly Puffed Pretzel Bites?
Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda solution before baking is key to their characteristic chewy texture. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Bring the baking soda and water to a rolling boil.
- Boil each batch for about 30 seconds, flipping them for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; do it in small batches.
This step helps develop the pretzel’s shiny crust! Just remember to use a slotted spoon for easy removal and place them directly onto your baking sheet.
How to Make a Creamy Cheddar Dip?
The cheddar dip is simple but delicious! Here’s a quick guide:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour, cooking for about 1 minute until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually add warm milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- When thickened, mix in the shredded cheddar until melted.
- Adjust the seasonings with mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.
For a twist, try adding a bit of pepperjack cheese for some heat! This creamy dip pairs perfectly with your warm pretzel bites.
How to Make Pretzel Bites With Cheddar Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pretzel Bites:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt, for sprinkling
- Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
For the Cheddar Dip:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, warm
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. This includes 1 hour for the dough to rise and about 30 minutes for preparation and baking. It’s a fun and easy project that results in delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit until it’s foamy, about 5 minutes. This step is important for activating the yeast! Then, add in the flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix everything together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Next, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This should take about 1 hour.
2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Soda Bath:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. This mixture is essential for giving the pretzel bites that classic flavor and chewy texture!
3. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove excess air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it into a long rope, about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to create your pretzel bites.
4. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
Take some pretzel bites and gently drop them into the boiling baking soda bath using a slotted spoon. Boil them for about 30 seconds, then carefully lift them out and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is important for achieving that classic pretzel flavor!
5. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
Brush the tops of each pretzel bite with the egg wash for a nice golden finish. If you like, sprinkle some coarse sea salt and chopped chives on top. Then, bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown.
6. Make the Cheddar Dip:
While the pretzel bites are baking, you can prepare the cheddar dip. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once thick, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the dip is smooth.
7. Serve:
Once the pretzel bites are baked to perfection, transfer them to a serving basket or plate. Serve them warm alongside the creamy cheddar dip. Enjoy your delightful, homemade pretzel bites!
These warm, soft pretzel bites with cheesy cheddar dip are perfect for parties, game days, or just as a tasty snack! Enjoy every bite! 🥨🧀
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser. A mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat can give you a nice balance of flavor and texture while still maintaining some lightness.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore their texture.
Can I Prepare the Dough the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and boiling your pretzel bites.
What Can I Use Instead of Dijon Mustard in the Dip?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or even omit it entirely for a simple cheese dip. Adding a splash of hot sauce can also give it a nice kick if you prefer some heat!
