Print

Pretzel Bites with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Pretzel Bites with Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Print Recipe

Pretzel Bites with Cheddar Cheese Sauce are warm, chewy, bite-sized snacks featuring a soft, salty pretzel crust paired with a rich, creamy sharp cheddar cheese dip. Perfect for parties, game days, or satisfying savory cravings, this quick and easy recipe delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Dough

  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) Active Dry Yeast
  • 1/4 cup Baking Soda (for boiling water)
  • 4 tbsp Butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (around 110°F)
  • 1 tsp Salt

Cheddar Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 1/2 cups Milk
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes. Mix in melted butter, salt, and flour to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until elastic and no longer sticky.
  2. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size for soft and airy pretzel bites.
  3. Shape the Pretzel Bites: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 1-inch thick long rope. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized portions perfect for even baking and finger food.
  4. Boil in Baking Soda Water: Bring a large pot of water with baking soda to a boil. Drop the pretzel bites in boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet to develop a chewy crust and deep brown color.
  5. Bake Until Golden Brown: Brush boiled pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle coarse salt on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  6. Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Reduce heat and add shredded sharp cheddar, stirring until smooth and creamy.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm pretzel bites alongside the creamy cheddar cheese sauce for dipping and enjoy the irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

Notes

  • Use warm water around 110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Don’t skip the baking soda bath for authentic pretzel texture and flavor.
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese for smoother melting compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  • Brush pretzel bites with melted butter both before and after baking for extra flavor and shine.
  • Keep cheese sauce warm when serving; reheat gently if it cools to maintain perfect consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, cheddar cheese sauce, snack, appetizer, party food, game day snack, cheesy dip, soft pretzels

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/pretzel-bites-with-cheddar-cheese-sauce/