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Beer Cheese Pretzel Bites: Best Easy Party Appetizer Recipe

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These soft pretzel bites with creamy beer cheese dip are the ultimate party appetizer. A clever brushing trick eliminates the need for a boiling water bath, making them quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup baking soda (for brushing solution)
  • Coarse salt (for sprinkling)
  • 8 oz (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¾ cup (180ml) light lager or pilsner beer
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • A few dashes hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, brown sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low with the dough hook. Gradually add remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until dough pulls away from the bowl. Knead on medium-low for 5-6 minutes (or by hand for 8-10 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Shape dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the bites: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Punch down dough and divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a 12-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place on baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
  5. Brushing trick: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup baking soda with 1 cup very hot water. Stir until mostly dissolved. Generously brush each bite with the solution, then immediately sprinkle with coarse salt.
  6. Second rise and bake: Let bites rest for 10 minutes. Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until deep golden brown and puffed.
  7. Make the beer cheese dip: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the beer until steaming. Add softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar, whisking constantly. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Keep warm.

Notes

The baking soda solution must be hot for best results. Shred your own cheese for a smooth dip. Keep the dip warm for serving. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheddar with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, party appetizer, game day snack, soft pretzels, homemade pretzels, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/beer-cheese-pretzel-bites-best-easy-party-appetizer-recipe/