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Crispy Pretzel Bites with Creamy Cheese Sauce

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These homemade crispy pretzel bites are golden, chewy, and perfect for dipping in a silky, creamy cheese sauce. Easy to make and irresistibly snackable, they’re ideal for game day, parties, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one 1/4-oz packet)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 cups water (for baking soda bath)
  • 1/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cheese sauce)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for cheese sauce)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in salt and melted butter. Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes, or until doubled.
  5. Punch down dough and divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into an 18-inch rope, about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
  6. Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Drop 10-12 bites at a time into boiling water for 20-30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  7. Brush each bite with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  8. Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes, until deep golden brown and crisp.
  9. For cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened (2-3 minutes). Lower heat, add cream cheese, stir until melted. Add cheddar, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until smooth.
  10. Let pretzel bites cool for 5 minutes before serving with warm cheese sauce.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Vegan options: substitute non-dairy butter, milk, and cheese. For extra crunch, bake bites 2-3 minutes longer. Cheese sauce is best with freshly shredded cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, cheese sauce, snack, appetizer, game day, party food, easy recipe, homemade pretzels

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/crispy-pretzel-bites-recipe-with-creamy-cheese-sauce-easy-snack-ideas/