Cheddar Jalapeño Pretzel Bites (Printable)

Golden pretzel bites with cheddar and jalapeño, ideal for parties and casual snacking.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1 teaspoon instant yeast
05 - 2/3 cup warm water
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Filling

07 - 3.5 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
08 - 1 fresh jalapeño, finely diced, seeds removed

→ Baking Soda Bath

09 - 4 cups water
10 - 2 tablespoons baking soda

→ Topping

11 - Coarse salt, for sprinkling

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and instant yeast. Add warm water and olive oil. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5 to 7 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm location for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
02 - Punch down the risen dough and divide into 24 uniform pieces. Flatten each segment, place a cheddar cheese cube and a pinch of diced jalapeño in the center. Enclose the filling by pulling up the edges and pinching tightly to seal.
03 - In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 2 tablespoons baking soda to a gentle boil. Working in batches, carefully lower pretzel bites into the bath for 20 to 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to transfer each bite onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
04 - Sprinkle each bite with coarse salt. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 10 to 12 minutes until the exterior is deep golden brown.
05 - Enjoy pretzel bites warm with the cheese filling melted inside.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry ingredients so you do not need anything fancy
  • Soft and chewy with melty cheese inside each bite
  • Can be customized from mild to spicy
  • Ready in just over an hour including rise time
02 -
  • High in satisfying protein from cheddar
  • Great for freezing and reheating
  • Perfect party and game day snack
03 -
  • Let each dough ball seal tightly or cheese will leak during baking
  • Simmer in baking soda bath for deep color without bitterness
  • Always serve warm for best melty cheese experience

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