Description
Enjoy warm, soft pretzel bites with a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for snacking or game day.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 8 cups water
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
- For the Cheese Sauce: 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, salt, oil, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
- Divide dough into small pieces and roll each into a rope. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Drop pretzel bites into boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- For the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Serve warm pretzel bites with cheese sauce.
Notes
- For a darker color, brush pretzel bites with an egg wash before baking.
- Adjust cheese sauce consistency by adding more milk or cheese.
- Pretzel bites are best served warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American