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Kid-Friendly Soft Pretzel Bites with Easy Beer Cheese Dip

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Soft, pillowy pretzel bites with a perfect chewy exterior, served with a rich and tangy beer cheese dip. This easy recipe comes together in about 45 minutes and is perfect for family movie nights, game days, or any casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup baking soda (for the bath)
  • 2 cups warm water (for the bath)
  • Coarse salt, for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 8 oz (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beer (lager or pale ale)
  • 2 oz (55g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add remaining 1 cup of flour, stirring until dough comes together.
  3. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough back in bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rest for 10 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup baking soda with 2 cups warm water. Stir until mostly dissolved.
  7. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch long rope, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces (about 10-12 per rope).
  8. Dip each pretzel bite into the baking soda solution for about 10 seconds. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
  9. Sprinkle pretzel bites generously with coarse salt while still wet from the bath.
  10. Bake for 10-12 minutes until deep golden brown.
  11. As soon as pretzel bites come out of the oven, brush generously with melted butter. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. While pretzels are baking, make the dip: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine beer, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Whisk until cream cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
  13. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, whisking constantly until each addition is melted before adding more. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over very low heat.

Notes

The pretzel bites are best served warm, right after baking. For a non-alcoholic version of the dip, use non-alcoholic beer or chicken broth. To freeze, bake the pretzel bites, let cool completely, and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, kid-friendly, snack, game day, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://bakebelle.com/kid-friendly-soft-pretzel-bites-with-easy-beer-cheese-dip/