Soft Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dip
Summary:
These homemade soft pretzels are golden, chewy, and buttery with a signature pretzel crust. Paired with a rich and creamy beer cheese dip, this appetizer is perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights in. Fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes dough rising time)
Servings: 8 large pretzels
Calories: ~310 per pretzel with dip
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: German-American
Ingredients:
For the Pretzels:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt for topping
For the Beer Cheese Dip:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup beer (lager or ale works best)
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Saucepan and whisk
Instructions:
1. Make the Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
