Description
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of warm, freshly baked pretzels filling your kitchen. Perfect for movie nights, game days, or weekend gatherings, these Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce are soft, chewy, and irresistible when dipped into creamy, melty cheese. Inspired by classic fair and stadium pretzels, this homemade version brings that comforting snack experience straight to your home. Easy to make, fun to share, and absolutely delicious, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a favorite for family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Bites:
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1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
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2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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10 cups water
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⅔ cup baking soda
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1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
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Coarse sea salt (for topping)
For the Cheese Sauce:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 cup whole milk
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy. Stir in melted butter and salt, then gradually add flour, mixing until dough pulls from the bowl.
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Knead dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
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Punch down dough, divide into 6 pieces, roll each into a 20-inch rope, and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
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In a large pot, bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Boil dough bites in batches for 30 seconds, remove with slotted spoon, and return to baking sheet.
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Preheat oven to 425°F. Brush bites with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to wire rack to cool slightly.
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For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Lower heat and stir in cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne. Adjust consistency with extra milk if needed.
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Serve warm pretzel bites with cheese sauce for dipping.
Notes
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Dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
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Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
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Freeze baked bites for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.
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Cheese sauce can use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
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Alternate dips: honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.
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For a twist, top bites with garlic butter, cinnamon sugar, or everything seasoning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes