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Pretzel Bites and Jalapeño Cheese Dip

Pretzel Bites and Jalapeño Cheese Dip

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 40 pretzel bites 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour)

Description

Soft, chewy pretzel bites paired with a creamy, spicy jalapeño cheese dip create the ultimate snack experience. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, this recipe combines a golden-brown pretzel crust with a rich and flavorful cheese dip that can be customized for any heat preference. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress, these pretzel bites and dip offer satisfying textures and bold flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Bites

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 10 cups water (for boiling)
  • 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
  • Coarse salt or pretzel salt, for sprinkling
  • Additional melted butter, for brushing

Jalapeño Cheese Dip

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2–3 fresh or pickled jalapeño peppers, diced (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Dough: Combine 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F), 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 packet active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add 2 tablespoons melted butter, 4 cups all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  2. Shape and Boil Pretzel Bites: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into small bite-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and set aside. In a large pot, bring 10 cups water mixed with 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil. Briefly dip the dough bites into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to the baking sheet.
  3. Bake the Pretzel Bites: Brush each pretzel bite with melted butter and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a crusty exterior.
  4. Prepare the Jalapeño Cheese Dip: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add diced jalapeños and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, cooking briefly to release flavors. Stir in 4 ounces softened cream cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Gradually add 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust heat by adding a pinch of cayenne or more jalapeños if desired.
  5. Serve Warm: Arrange the pretzel bites on a serving platter. Pour the warm jalapeño cheese dip into a bowl, garnish with optional chopped cilantro or sliced green onions, and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use water around 110°F to properly activate yeast without killing it.
  • Do not skip the baking soda bath; it’s essential for the classic pretzel crust and chewy texture.
  • Cut or roll pretzel bites evenly for consistent baking and easy snacking.
  • Fresh jalapeños provide optimal flavor and heat compared to canned or pickled ones.
  • Keep the cheese dip warm on low heat or in a slow cooker if not serving immediately to maintain smooth consistency.
  • Store leftover pretzel bites at room temperature for up to 2 days, and refrigerate cheese dip for 3-4 days.
  • Pretzel bites can be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven to refresh.
  • To make vegan, substitute dairy cheeses and butter with plant-based alternatives.
  • For gluten-free pretzels, use a suitable gluten-free flour blend and adjust dough consistency accordingly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5 pretzel bites with 2 tbsp dip
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: pretzel bites, jalapeño cheese dip, soft pretzels, spicy dip, appetizer, snack, party food, game day snack

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/pretzel-bites-and-jalapeo-cheese-dip/