Description

Pretzel bites with cheddar cheese sauce are the ultimate comfort food, combining the delightful chewiness of soft pretzels with a luscious, creamy cheese dip that’s simply irresistible. Originating from the art of German baking, pretzels have a rich history that dates back to ancient times, making them a beloved snack across the globe. These bite-sized treats are perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or just as a fun family activity in the kitchen. The joy of pulling these golden, fluffy bites from the oven and dipping them into a velvety cheddar cheese sauce is an experience that transcends generations.

What makes this recipe special is not just the delicious flavor combination but also its simplicity. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a snack that feels indulgent yet is easy to make at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring your pretzel bites turn out perfectly every time. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on this delightful culinary adventure together!

Ingredients

• For the Pretzel Bites:
• - 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• - 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• - 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• - 4 cups all-purpose flour
• - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• - ⅓ cup baking soda (for the water bath)
• - Coarse sea salt (for topping)
• For the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
• - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• - 1 cup whole milk
• - 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• - ½ teaspoon onion powder
• - Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the pretzel dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to combine, then let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which will help your pretzel bites rise beautifully.

Next, add the flour and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a dough forms. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

Once your dough is ready, shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the cheddar cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This step is essential to eliminate the raw flour taste and develop a rich flavor.

Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for an extra zing.

After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Prepare a baking soda bath by bringing 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, carefully add the baking soda. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up. This step is what gives your pretzel bites that signature chewy texture and beautiful golden color.

Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch thick. Then, cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to create your pretzel bites.

When your water bath is ready, reduce the heat to medium. Drop the dough pieces into the boiling water, cooking them for about 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Once all the bites are in place, sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt. This enhances the flavor and gives your pretzels that classic pretzel look.

Now, bake the pretzel bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. When they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.

While the pretzel bites cool, give your cheddar cheese sauce a quick stir to keep it smooth and creamy. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Once everything is ready, serve your warm pretzel bites alongside the cheddar cheese sauce for dipping. The combination of the warm, soft bites with the rich, cheesy dip is simply mouthwatering and will have everyone coming back for more.

Tips and Conclusion

For a fun twist, you can customize your pretzel bites by adding various toppings before baking. Try sprinkling them with everything bagel seasoning for a flavorful spin, or brush them with melted garlic butter right after they come out of the oven for an extra layer of taste. If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior.



Making pretzel bites with cheddar cheese sauce is not just about preparing a snack; it's about creating a memorable experience filled with delicious flavors and delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen. The satisfaction of biting into a soft pretzel and savoring the creamy cheese sauce is truly unparalleled. Whether you’re enjoying them during a cozy movie night, at a party, or just as a treat for yourself, these pretzel bites will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.

After you’ve tried this recipe, you might want to explore other comforting snacks, such as buffalo chicken dip or homemade mozzarella sticks, both of which pair wonderfully with gatherings and celebrations. Don’t forget to share your success with friends and family, and feel free to leave a comment on the recipe page about your experience or any variations you tried. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your pretzel bites with cheddar cheese sauce!