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Crispy Bavarian Pretzel Bites: Best Beer Cheese Dip

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Quick, no-rise pretzel bites boiled in a baking soda bath for authentic flavor and color, served with a creamy, tangy beer cheese dip. Perfect for game day or last-minute snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) milk
  • 1/2 cup baking soda (for boiling bath)
  • Water (for boiling bath)
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup lager or pilsner beer
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Make a well in the center and pour in melted butter and milk. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough in the bowl for about 2 minutes until smooth and pliable.
  4. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in baking soda until dissolved.
  7. Roll the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  8. Boil the bites in batches for 30 seconds per side until they float.
  9. Remove with a slotted spoon or tongs and place on the baking sheet.
  10. Immediately sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  11. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.
  12. While pretzels bake, combine cream cheese, beer, garlic powder, mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
  13. Whisk until smooth, then slowly add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Do not boil.
  14. Serve warm pretzel bites with the hot beer cheese dip.

Notes

Do not skip the baking soda bath; it is essential for the authentic pretzel flavor and color. Ensure the cheese dip is kept on low heat to prevent separation. If the dip breaks, whisk in a splash of cold milk to re-emulsify. Use fresh grated cheese for the smoothest dip.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, game day snacks, easy appetizer, bavarian pretzels, no yeast pretzels, party food

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/crispy-bavarian-pretzel-bites-best-beer-cheese-dip/