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Soft Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip (Addictive Snack!)

Kev
These Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and golden brown, paired with a creamy Cheese Dip that's rich in flavor. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, this snack is perfect for parties, game days, or as a comforting treat. The pretzels are boiled in a baking soda solution to give them their iconic texture, and the cheese dip is made with sharp cheddar for a rich, tangy finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

For the Pretzel Bites:

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water 110-115°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 10 cups water
  • 2/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
  • Coarse sea salt for topping

For the Cheese Dip:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Add the salt, melted butter, and gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time.
  • Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shaping and Boiling the Pretzel Bites

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal sections.
  • Roll each section into a long rope, about 1-inch in diameter, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda (it will bubble up, so add it slowly).
  • Drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches, letting them boil for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Baking

  • Brush the pretzel bites with the egg wash and sprinkle them with coarse sea salt.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 4: Making the Cheese Dip

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute.
  • Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Once the mixture thickens, reduce the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Serve immediately with the warm pretzel bites.

Notes

Tips for the Best Soft Pretzel Bites
Don't skip the baking soda bath: This step gives the pretzels their signature chewy texture and golden-brown color.
Use fresh yeast: Old or expired yeast may prevent the dough from rising properly.
Experiment with seasonings: Try garlic butter, parmesan cheese, or even a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating.
Serve fresh: These pretzel bites are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.