Description

These crispy pretzel bites feature a crunchy exterior and soft, chewy inside, paired perfectly with a smooth, rich creamy cheese sauce dip. Ideal for snacks, parties, or cozy family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 cups (2.5 liters) water (for boiling bath)
2/3 cup (160 g) baking soda (for boiling bath)
1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cheese sauce)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for cheese sauce)
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warmed (or dairy-free milk)
1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 ounces (56 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water (110°F/43°C) and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Make the dough: Add melted butter, flour, and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or mix on low with a dough hook until combined.
Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for 5 minutes on medium.
First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Prepare baking soda bath: In a large pot, bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
Shape pretzel bites: Punch down dough, roll into a 1-inch thick rope, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
Boil bites: Drop 6-8 pretzel bites into boiling baking soda water at a time. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove and place on baking sheet.
Apply egg wash: Brush each pretzel bite with beaten egg and water mixture. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until deep golden brown and crisp.
Make cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Serve warm cheese sauce alongside pretzel bites immediately.

Notes

The baking soda bath is essential for the classic pretzel flavor and crust. Do not overcrowd the pot when boiling. Brush egg wash generously for a shiny, golden finish. Make cheese sauce while pretzels bake to save time. Adjust cheese sauce thickness by adding milk or cooking longer. Start checking pretzels at 12 minutes to avoid burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 10 pretzel bit
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 600
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 1
Protein: 10

Keywords: pretzel bites, cheese sauce, snack, party food, appetizer, homemade pretzels, creamy cheese dip, easy recipe