Learn to bake perfect soft pretzels with a chewy inside, golden crust, and a hint of salt. This recipe includes a simple, delicious beer cheese dip for an irresistible snack.
Author:Noah Younssi
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 40 minutes
Yield:8 pretzels
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
1 teaspoon sugar
4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons coarse salt (for topping)
For the Beer Cheese Dip:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
½ cup lager beer
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, prepare the beer cheese dip: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk and beer until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until cheese is melted and smooth. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long. Twist into a pretzel shape.
Place pretzels on the prepared baking sheets.
Brush pretzels with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve warm with the beer cheese dip.
Notes
Ensure your water is the right temperature for the yeast to activate properly.
Don’t over-knead the dough; you want it to be elastic but not tough.
Adjust the amount of salt on top to your preference.
The beer cheese dip can be reheated gently if needed.