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Buttery soft pretzels with a side of creamy cheese dip for dipping
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Buttery Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip

Indulge in warm, golden-brown pretzels paired with a rich, creamy cheese dip, perfect for any snack occasion.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheese Dip, comfort food, Family Activities, Snack Recipes, Soft Pretzels
Servings: 8 pretzels
Calories: 300kcal

Ingredients

For the Pretzels

  • 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F) Essential for activating the yeast.
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 1 tsp salt Adds flavor.
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar Helps activate the yeast.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Main ingredient for the pretzels.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted Incorporated into the dough.
  • 1/3 cup baking soda (for water bath) Helps achieve the pretzel's texture.
  • 1 each egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash) Gives the pretzels a nice glaze.
  • to taste coarse sea salt, for sprinkling For topping.

For the Cheese Dip

  • 2 tbsp butter Used for making the cheese dip.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese dip.
  • 1 cup milk Main liquid for the cheese dip.
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Primary cheese for dip.
  • 0.5 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) Adds a little flavor.
  • to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a bowl, combine the warm water and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  • Stir in the salt, brown sugar, and melted butter. Gradually incorporate the flour, kneading the mixture until it becomes smooth and elastic—approximately 5 minutes.
  • Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size.

Shaping and Boiling

  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Divide your risen dough into eight equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist it into a classic pretzel shape.
  • In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds.
  • Place the boiled pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Brush the pretzels with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  • Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Cheese Dip

  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour.
  • Gradually add in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving

  • Dip your warm pretzels into the creamy cheese sauce and enjoy!

Notes

For a unique twist, experiment with various cheeses for the dip or use garlic butter on the pretzels post-baking.