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Crispy Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe with Easy Creamy Beer Cheese Dip

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These crispy soft pretzel bites have a crunchy exterior and tender interior, paired perfectly with a rich and creamy beer cheese dip. Ideal for game nights, parties, or a cozy snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) baking soda
  • 4 tbsp (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
  • 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) beer (lager or pale ale preferred)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add flour and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until shaggy dough forms. Knead with stand mixer dough hook for 5-7 minutes or by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Bring a large pot of water to boil and slowly add baking soda.
  5. Shape pretzel bites: Punch down dough, divide into 6 pieces, roll each into 1/2 inch thick ropes, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  6. Boil bites: Drop pretzel bites into boiling baking soda water for 20-30 seconds until they float. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
  7. Season and bake: Brush bites with melted butter, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and bake for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crisp.
  8. Make beer cheese dip: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine cheddar and cream cheese. Slowly add beer while whisking. Stir in garlic powder, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Heat gently until smooth.
  9. Serve warm: Let pretzel bites cool slightly and serve immediately with beer cheese dip.

Notes

Boil pretzel bites long enough in baking soda bath for a glossy, crackly crust. Avoid overcrowding pot when boiling. Brush bites with butter after boiling for richer taste and golden color. Heat cheese dip gently to avoid separation. Reheat pretzel bites in 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, soft pretzels, snack recipe, party food, game night snack, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://bakebelle.com/crispy-soft-pretzel-bites-recipe-with-easy-creamy-beer-cheese-dip/