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Tender Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe with Easy Creamy Beer Cheese Dip

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Tender, soft pretzel bites with a golden crust paired with a rich and velvety creamy beer cheese dip. A quick and easy snack perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for dough)
  • 1 tsp salt (for dough)
  • 1/4 cup (60g) baking soda
  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) water (for boiling)
  • 2 tbsp coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing pretzels)
  • 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) beer (lager or pale ale)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water (110°F/43°C), sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, salt, and about 3 1/2 cups (420g) of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the mixture starts to come together. Add remaining flour as needed to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large pot, bring 8 cups water and 1/4 cup baking soda to a rolling boil.
  6. Punch down the risen dough and divide into 4 equal portions. Roll each into an 18-inch rope and cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch bite-sized pieces.
  7. Boil pretzel bites in batches for 30 seconds each using a slotted spoon. Remove and drain briefly.
  8. Arrange bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp.
  10. While baking, prepare the beer cheese dip by whisking cream cheese and beer in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy.
  11. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the dip. Adjust seasoning and keep warm.
  12. Serve pretzel bites warm with the creamy beer cheese dip on the side.

Notes

Do not skip the baking soda bath to achieve the classic pretzel crust and tang. Brush pretzel bites with melted butter immediately after baking to lock in moisture and add shine. Avoid overcrowding the boiling water to maintain temperature and crust quality. Use freshly shredded cheddar for best dip texture. The dip can be kept warm on low heat while baking pretzels.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, soft pretzels, beer cheese dip, snack recipe, easy pretzels, homemade pretzels, party snack

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