Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip

These Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip are golden, chewy, and slightly salty on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior. Paired with a rich, creamy cheese dip, they make the ultimate snack for game nights, parties, or just a cozy treat at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & Chewy Texture – Perfectly golden on the outside, pillowy soft on the inside.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
• Perfectly Salty & Buttery – The ideal balance of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable – Try different toppings or dips for variety.
• Great for Any Occasion – A favorite for gatherings, snacks, or a side dish!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soft Pretzels:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 10 cups water
• ½ cup baking soda

For Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse salt
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)

For the Cheese Dip:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (warm)
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, for tang)
• ¼ tsp salt

Directions

this recipe

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and brown sugar.
• Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

• Add salt and melted butter to the yeast mixture.
• Gradually mix in flour, kneading until a soft dough forms (5-7 minutes).
• Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Pretzels

• Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope and shape into a pretzel.

4. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

• Bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a boil.
• Dip each pretzel for 20-30 seconds, then transfer to the baking sheet.

5. Bake the Pretzels

• Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
• Brush with melted butter after baking.

6. Make the Cheese Dip

• Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Slowly add warm milk, whisking until smooth.
• Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt.
• Remove from heat when smooth and creamy.

7. Serve & Enjoy

• Serve warm pretzels with hot cheese dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels – Brush with butter and coat in cinnamon sugar.
• Spicy Cheese Dip – Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Garlic Parmesan Pretzels – Sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Stuffed Pretzels – Fill dough with cheese or pepperoni before baking.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before shaping.

What’s the purpose of the baking soda bath?

It gives pretzels their signature chewy texture and deep brown color.

Can I use a different cheese for the dip?

Yes! Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheddar.

How do I keep pretzels soft?

Store in a sealed container and warm before serving.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Reduce the rise time to 30 minutes.

How do I prevent my cheese dip from getting grainy?

Use low heat and stir continuously while adding cheese.

Can I make mini pretzels instead?

Yes! Divide into 16 pieces and reduce baking time to 8-10 minutes.

Can I air fry these pretzels?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until golden.

How do I get an even golden crust?

Ensure pretzels are fully submerged in the baking soda bath and brush with egg wash.

What’s a good side dish for pretzels?

Try with honey mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce!

Conclusion

These Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip are a must-try for anyone who loves warm, chewy pretzels paired with rich, creamy cheese sauce. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or just because, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy homemade pretzels like never before!

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