Bavarian Pretzel Bites

🛒 Ingredients

For the Pretzel Bites:

• 🌾 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 🥄 1 tbsp sugar
• 🧂 2 tsp salt
• 🥄 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 🥣 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 🧈 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 🧂 1/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
• 🌊 10 cups water
• 🧂 Coarse salt, for topping

For the Beer Cheese Dip:

• 🧈 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 🌾 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 🍺 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
• 🥛 1 cup whole milk
• 🧀 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 🌶️ 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste

🍳 Instructions

Make the Pretzel Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let it Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Boil the Pretzel Bites

4. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape the Bites:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 portions. Roll each portion into a rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
6. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
   • In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Drop the dough pieces into the water in batches and boil for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
7. Bake:
   • Brush the pretzel bites with melted butter, sprinkle with coarse salt, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Beer Cheese Dip

8. Prepare the Roux:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
9. Add Liquids:
   • Gradually whisk in the beer and milk, cooking until slightly thickened.
10. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
    • Stir in the shredded cheese and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the cheese is melted and smooth.

💡 Tips and Variations

• 🧄 Flavor Boost: Add garlic powder or paprika to the cheese dip for extra flavor.
• 🌿 Herbal Twist: Garnish the pretzel bites with chopped rosemary or parsley.
• 🧀 Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or Fontina for a different cheese dip flavor.
• 🥨 Make Ahead: Freeze baked pretzel bites for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Serve Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip alongside a pint of lager or a sparkling soda for a satisfying snack. Add spicy mustard or ranch dressing for dipping variety.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The chewy, golden bites paired with creamy, flavorful cheese dip make this a perfect snack for game days, parties, or any festive occasion.