Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites: 16 Irresistible Snacks

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Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites have become a staple in my home, especially during gatherings and movie nights. These delightful bites feature soft, chewy pretzel dough wrapped around sharp cheddar cheese cubes. They’re perfectly boiled in baking soda water and baked until golden brown, making for a savory treat that pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or a party appetizer, these bites are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

This Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites recipe is adored for various reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for beginners. Secondly, the combination of soft pretzel dough and gooey cheddar cheese creates a delightful texture that is hard to resist. Not to mention, they are a hit at parties, serving as fantastic Cheddar cheese pretzel snacks that everyone will love. They are also suitable for vegetarians, making them an inclusive option for diverse gatherings. Lastly, these bites can be frozen and reheated, providing a quick and satisfying snack whenever you need one!

Ingredients for Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

Gather these items:

2 ¼ teaspoons yeast
1 cup warm water (105-110 degrees F)
3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
2 Tablespoons whole milk (room temperature)
3 Tablespoons salted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
8 ounces Cabot sharp cheddar cheese (cut into ½” cubes)
4 quarts water
½ cup baking soda
Coarse sea salt (to taste)
2 Tablespoons salted butter (melted, for brushing)

How to Make Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine yeast, warm water, and brown sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook. Stir gently and let it stand for 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: While the yeast proofs, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then mix in the whole milk. Set this aside for use after proofing.
Step 3: Add the milk and butter mixture to the foamy yeast mixture. Mix on low speed with the dough hook just until combined. Then add salt and flour, mixing until the flour is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Continue kneading in the mixer until the dough forms a slightly tacky but firm ball. Add flour a tablespoon at a time if the dough is too sticky, but aim to keep it a bit tacky to handle without sticking excessively.
Step 5: Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough ball inside. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Once the dough has doubled, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking sheet. Set aside.
Step 7: Chop the cheddar cheese into sixteen ½-inch cubes and set aside. There will be some extra cheese leftover.
Step 8: Remove the dough from the bowl and gently press out the air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions; each should weigh about 50 grams (use a food scale if possible) to make sixteen bites.
Step 9: Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Gradually add the baking soda bit by bit, taking care to prevent a fizzing overflow.
Step 10: Flatten each dough portion into a round disc, place one cube of cheese onto the center, then fold the dough around the cheese forming a smooth ball with no seams exposed to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking. Do not let the formed balls rise again.
Step 11: Drop each pretzel bite into the boiling baking soda water. Boil for 60 seconds on each side, turning once, ensuring both sides are cooked evenly. Use a slotted spoon to remove each bite and drain excess water.
Step 12: Immediately sprinkle coarse sea salt on each pretzel bite to taste. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in batches (around eight at a time) to avoid rising in between steps.
Step 13: Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. The bites are done when golden brown and they spring back when lightly touched.
Step 14: As soon as you remove the pretzel bites from the oven, brush the tops with the remaining melted butter. Transfer to a wire rack to cool just enough to handle and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh yeast to ensure the best rise.
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the dough.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
These bites are best served warm, but they can be reheated in the oven.

Best Ways to Serve Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

These Cheddar cheese pretzel bites can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair them with a spicy mustard for dipping.
Serve alongside a creamy cheese sauce for an indulgent treat.
These bites also make a great addition to a charcuterie board for parties.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

To store, place any leftover Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their chewy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites

What’s the secret to perfect Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites?

The secret lies in the boiling step; immersing the bites in baking soda water creates that classic pretzel texture and color. Be sure to monitor the boiling time to avoid doughy bites.

Can I make Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just shape and boil the bites before baking them on the day you plan to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is correct to activate it. Also, make sure to seal the dough around the cheese tightly to prevent leaks during boiling.

Variations of Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Irresistible Cheddar Cheese Pretzel Bites fresh from the oven on a cooling rack

For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Peppermint Christmas Float. You might also enjoy our One Pot Broccoli Cheese for a comforting meal.