These soft pretzel bites are fluffy and warm, perfect for snacking! Paired with a creamy cheddar dip, they make every movie night a treat.
Seriously, who can resist these little gems? I like to sprinkle some salt on top before baking. They disappear fast at my house—good luck sharing! 😂
The best part? They’re super easy to make! Just twist the dough, bake, and enjoy with that cheesy dip. It’s a whole lot of fun in one bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Using active dry yeast is key for the dough’s rise. You can substitute with instant yeast if needed; just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with your dry ingredients.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the pretzel bites their soft texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend and add some xanthan gum for structure.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold flavor to the dip. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for different taste profiles!
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect here. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute for a great result.
How Do You Boil Pretzel Bites for That Perfect Texture?
Boiling pretzel bites before baking is a must for that classic pretzel texture. It helps achieve a nice browned crust while keeping the insides soft. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. The baking soda gives the pretzel bites their characteristic flavor.
- Drop the pretzel bites in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Boil for 20-30 seconds; this is where they start to cook slightly.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the bites and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt immediately for extra flavor.
This step is simple but essential for achieving that chewy texture that you’ll love. Happy baking!
How to Make Delicious Pretzel Bites With Cheddar Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pretzel Bites:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water (for boiling)
- 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
For the Cheddar Dip:
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream to thin if needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is a fun project that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes total—30 minutes for prep and dough rising, and about 30 minutes for boiling and baking. You’ll love the smell of fresh pretzels wafting through your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pretzel Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready!
Next, add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a dough starts forming. Once combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper, lightly greasing the sheets as well. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, about ½-inch thick. Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to create your pretzel bites!
3. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. This is where the magic happens! Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches, letting them cook for 20-30 seconds. Then, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Immediately sprinkle coarse sea salt on top while they’re still wet.
4. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Pop the baking sheets in the oven and bake the pretzel bites for about 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crispy on the outside. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Cheddar Dip:
While your pretzel bites are baking, let’s make the cheesy dip! In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until all ingredients are smooth and blended. If the dip is too thick for your liking, just add a bit of milk or heavy cream until you’ve reached your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season it with a pinch of salt and pepper!
6. Serve:
Your pretzel bites are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm with the cheddar dip on the side for dipping. They’re fantastic as an appetizer, snack, or even as a fun party treat. Enjoy these delightful bites!
Happy cooking, and enjoy sharing (if you can resist eating them all yourself)! 🥨🧀
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will give the pretzel bites a heartier texture and flavor. You may need to adjust the water slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with the same amount and add a little more as needed until your dough comes together smoothly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites and Dip?
To store leftovers, place the pretzel bites in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cheddar dip can also be stored in the fridge in a separate container for the same duration. To reheat, warm the pretzel bites in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For the dip, gently microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.
Can I Freeze the Pretzel Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the pretzel bites! Once baked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese in the Dip?
If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese blended until smooth. This will give you a creamy texture with added protein, though it may change the flavor slightly, making it a bit tangier.