Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

Introduction

Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce are the ultimate snack—soft, chewy, golden-brown pretzel bites served with a creamy, gooey cheese sauce. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing at parties, game days, or as a fun appetizer. The salty pretzels pair perfectly with the rich, savory cheese sauce, making it a combination that’s hard to resist. Whether you prefer them plain, sprinkled with coarse salt, or dipped in mustard, these pretzel bites are guaranteed to be a hit.

I first made these for a gathering, and they were gone within minutes. The combination of warm pretzels and gooey cheese sauce creates an irresistible snack experience that everyone loves. What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to make, even if you’re short on time. The dough comes together quickly, and you can have fresh, homemade pretzel bites ready to serve in under an hour.

What I love most is how customizable these bites are. You can experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder or cinnamon sugar, or even add some herbs for an extra kick. They’re the kind of treat you can get creative with while still keeping it simple. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or just craving a snack, these Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce are sure to satisfy!

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Party appetizers
• Movie nights
• Kids’ snacks
• Anytime cravings

Why You’ll Love This Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

Here’s why Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce will become your go-to snack:

• Soft and Chewy Texture: These pretzel bites have a perfect balance between a chewy inside and a lightly crisp outside.
• Golden and Buttery: Brushed with melted butter, these bites turn out golden and delicious.
• Homemade Cheese Sauce: The creamy cheese sauce is easy to make and elevates these bites to the next level.
• Easy to Share: Their bite-sized form makes them perfect for serving at gatherings or as a fun snack.
• Versatile: Pair them with cheese sauce, mustard, or even a sweet dip like chocolate or caramel.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes (for dough rising)
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Bites:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water (for boiling)
• ⅔ cup baking soda
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
• Additional melted butter, for brushing

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the pretzel dough rise and gives the pretzel bites their soft, chewy texture.
• Baking Soda Bath: Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda solution before baking gives them their signature color and chewy exterior.
• Cheddar Cheese: The base for the cheese sauce, providing a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the salty pretzel bites.
• Dijon Mustard (Optional): Adds a subtle depth to the cheese sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pretzel Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the sugar and melted butter.
2. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Shape and Boil the Pretzel Bites:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Divide the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 12-15-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
6. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
7. Boil the Pretzel Bites: Working in batches, boil the pretzel bites for 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Brush and Sprinkle: Brush each bite with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake and Finish:

9. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are golden brown.
10. Brush with Butter: Remove from the oven and brush with additional melted butter for extra flavor and shine.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

11. Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
12. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
13. Add the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce are a versatile snack. Here are some ways to enjoy them:

• Game Day Feast: Serve alongside chicken wings, nachos, and other finger foods for a game day spread.
• Appetizer Platter: Add the pretzel bites to a charcuterie board for a fun, savory addition.
• Dip Options: Serve with mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce for a variety of dipping options.
• With Soup: Pair them with tomato soup or beer cheese soup for a comforting meal.

Additional Tips for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

• Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is warm (around 110°F) to properly activate the yeast.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: This step is essential for getting that traditional pretzel texture and color.
• Brush with Butter: Brushing with butter after baking gives the pretzels a beautiful sheen and enhances the flavor.
• Cheese Sauce Consistency: If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer to thicken.
• Make Ahead: You can shape and freeze the dough bites before boiling. Boil and bake them directly from frozen when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

Here are 10 variations for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce:

1. Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites: Toss the baked bites with garlic butter and grated Parmesan.
3. Everything Pretzel Bites: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning instead of coarse salt.
4. Honey Mustard Pretzel Bites: Serve with a homemade honey mustard dipping sauce.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites: Skip the salt and brush with butter, then toss in cinnamon sugar.
6. Bacon Cheese Sauce: Add crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce for an extra savory touch.
7. Beer Cheese Sauce: Substitute some of the milk with your favorite beer for a rich, bold flavor.
8. Pepper Jack Cheese Sauce: Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy, cheesy dip.
9. Pretzel Dogs: Wrap small pieces of dough around cocktail sausages before boiling and baking.
10. Pizza Pretzel Bites: Serve with marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and pepperoni bits.

Freezing and Storage for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

• Freezing: You can freeze the boiled pretzel bites before baking. When ready to bake, thaw and bake as directed.
• Storage: Store baked pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh them.

Special Equipment for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the dough and cheese sauce.
• Baking Sheets: Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Slotted Spoon: To remove the pretzel bites from the boiling water.
• Saucepan: For preparing the cheese sauce.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the pretzels with butter.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the pretzel bites.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce

1. Can I make the pretzel bites ahead of time?
   Yes! You can shape and freeze the dough before boiling, then boil and bake when ready to serve.
2. How do I reheat the pretzel bites?
   Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
3. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk to thin it if necessary.
4. Can I use different cheeses for the sauce?
   Absolutely! Try a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, you can use instant yeast and skip the activation step.

Print

Conclusion

Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce are the ultimate snack for any occasion, offering the perfect balance of warm, soft pretzels and smooth, velvety cheese sauce. These bite-sized treats are an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or indulging in a cozy movie night, these pretzel bites are always a hit.

This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute cravings or planned celebrations. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor, and watch them disappear in no time!

I’d love to see how your Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Happy cooking!