Description
A quick and easy weeknight snack featuring chewy, salty soft pretzel bites served with a creamy cheddar dip. Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet (2.25 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on low speed for 3-5 minutes or by hand for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Adjust with flour or water if needed.
- Divide dough into 12-15 equal pieces and roll each into a smooth ball.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Stir in baking soda carefully. Drop dough balls into the water and boil for 30 seconds per side until they float.
- Remove boiled bites with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush bites with melted butter and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 2 minutes.
- While baking, combine heavy cream, cheddar, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Heat gently, stirring frequently, until smooth and melted.
Notes
Ensure water is warm but not hot when activating yeast. Do not skip the baking soda bath as it creates the authentic pretzel crust. Grate your own cheese for a smoother dip. Reheat leftovers in an oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2-3 bi
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: soft pretzel bites, weeknight snack, easy recipe, cheddar dip, quick dinner, family friendly, budget meal