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Best Homemade Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip

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These soft, chewy Bavarian pretzel bites are boiled in a baking soda bath for that authentic dark crust and paired with a creamy beer cheese dip. Perfect for game days, Oktoberfest, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g)
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup baking soda
  • 4 cups water
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for dip)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dip)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup beer (lager or pilsner)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, brown sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the baking soda bath: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add baking soda carefully (it will foam), then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Shape the bites: Punch down the dough and divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a 12-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  6. Boil the bites: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Drop 6-8 bites into the simmering bath. Boil 30 seconds, flip, boil another 30 seconds. Remove to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all bites.
  7. Add the salt: While still wet, sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
  8. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.
  9. Brush with butter: As soon as they come out, brush with melted butter.
  10. Make the beer cheese dip: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and beer. Cook 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mustard, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.

Notes

The baking soda bath is essential for the dark crust and chewy texture. Do not skip or rush it. Shred your own cheese for the dip to avoid anti-caking agents. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, Bavarian pretzels, game day appetizer, Oktoberfest recipe, homemade pretzels

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/best-homemade-bavarian-pretzel-bites-with-beer-cheese-dip/