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Crispy Sourdough Pretzel Bites Recipe with Easy Cheddar Dip

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These crispy sourdough pretzel bites offer a perfect balance of tangy sourdough flavor and a crunchy crust, paired with a creamy cheddar dip for an irresistible snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 100 grams (3.5 oz) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
  • 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra coarse salt for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • For the Cheddar Dip:
  • 1 cup (100 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the starter and mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine 100 grams (3.5 oz) of active sourdough starter with 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water. Stir in 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 teaspoon salt. Gradually add 2 cups (250 grams) of all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Add a touch more flour if needed.
  3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the pretzel bites: Punch down the dough and roll it into a long rope about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick. Cut the rope into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces and set aside.
  5. Prepare the baking soda bath: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully add 2 tablespoons baking soda. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil.
  6. Boil the pretzel bites: Drop the pretzel pieces into the boiling water in batches. Once they float to the surface (about 20-30 seconds), remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the baking sheet.
  7. Season and bake: Brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Make the cheddar dip: While the bites bake, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve warm: Transfer the pretzel bites to a serving plate and place the cheddar dip alongside for dunking.

Notes

Use active sourdough starter for best results. Don’t skip the baking soda bath to achieve the authentic pretzel crust. Brush with butter after boiling to help coarse salt stick and add flavor. Boil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Adjust oven temperature if pretzels brown too quickly. For a thinner cheddar dip, add more milk; for thicker, simmer longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: sourdough pretzel bites, cheddar dip, snack recipe, sourdough starter recipe, easy pretzels, party snacks, homemade pretzels

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/crispy-sourdough-pretzel-bites-recipe-with-easy-cheddar-dip-perfect-for-snacking/