Ingredients:
For the Pretzel Bites:
– 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ cup baking soda (for boiling)
– Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
For the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
– In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
– Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
– Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
– Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
– Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch thick, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
– In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
– Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches for about 30 seconds.
– Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
5. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Prepare the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
– In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
– Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
– Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Serve:
– Serve the warm pretzel bites with the cheddar cheese sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4-6
Enjoy these delicious Pretzel Bites with Cheddar Cheese Sauce, perfect for snacking or entertaining!
