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Soft Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip

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These soft pretzel bites are pillowy, golden, and bakery-fresh, served with a creamy, tangy beer cheese dip. Perfect for game day, parties, or cozy nights in, this easy homemade snack is a crowd-pleaser and comfort food classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/3 cup baking soda
  • 6 cups water (for boiling)
  • Coarse kosher salt or pretzel salt (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cheese dip)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for cheese dip)
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (or 2% or non-dairy milk)
  • 1/2 cup beer (light lager or pilsner, or non-alcoholic)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir in flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 30-40 minutes until doubled.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F. Punch down dough, turn onto floured surface, and cut into 6 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 3/4 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
  6. Cover bites with a towel while preparing baking soda bath.
  7. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Add pretzel bites in batches and boil for 20-30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Sprinkle boiled bites with coarse salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes until deep golden brown. Brush hot pretzel bites with melted butter if desired.
  9. For beer cheese dip: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
  10. Slowly whisk in milk and beer, stirring constantly. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  11. Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in cheddar and cream cheese until smooth and melted.
  12. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
  13. Serve pretzel bites warm with beer cheese dip.

Notes

For gluten-free bites, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Substitute vegan butter and non-dairy milk for dairy-free adaptation. Don’t skip the baking soda bath for authentic pretzel flavor. Cheese dip can be made with non-alcoholic beer or extra milk. Store pretzel bites in an airtight container for up to 5 days; freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, homemade snack, party food, game day, easy appetizer, comfort food, baking, cheese dip, pretzel recipe

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/soft-pretzel-bites-with-beer-cheese-dip-easy-homemade-snack/