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Crispy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Bites

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These crispy jalapeño cheddar pretzel bites combine a crunchy exterior with melty cheddar cheese and a spicy jalapeño kick, perfect for snacks, parties, or game nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
  • 1 cup warm water (240 ml), about 110°F (43°C)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (225 g)
  • 2 medium fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup baking soda (60 g)
  • 10 cups water (2.4 L) for boiling
  • 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
  • Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: 2 tbsp melted butter for brushing

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add melted butter and salt to yeast mixture. Gradually stir in flour, one cup at a time, mixing until dough forms. Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or with stand mixer dough hook for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place dough inside, cover with damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare filling: Shred cheddar cheese and finely chop jalapeños, removing seeds if milder bites are preferred.
  5. Shape the bites: Punch down dough and roll out on floured surface into a 12×15 inch (30×38 cm) rectangle. Evenly spread cheese and jalapeños over dough.
  6. Roll and cut: Roll dough into a log from the long side, sealing edge by pinching. Slice log into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick bites using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  7. Boil the bites: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Drop pretzel bites in batches into boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake: Sprinkle bites with coarse sea salt and optional garlic powder. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Finish: Optional but recommended—brush hot pretzel bites with melted butter after baking for shine and extra flavor.
  10. Cool and serve: Let bites cool a few minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm with mustard or favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

If dough feels sticky, dust hands and surface lightly with flour but avoid adding too much to keep bites tender. Watch baking time closely to avoid overbaking. Brushing with melted butter after baking adds shine and flavor. For gluten-free, use gluten-free baking mix; for dairy-free, use vegan cheddar and butter substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño, cheddar, pretzel bites, snack, appetizer, homemade, easy recipe, game day food, spicy, cheesy

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/crispy-jalape-n-o-cheddar-pretzel-bites-recipe-easy-homemade-snack/