Cheese Pretzel Bites Recipe

Soft, buttery, and cheesy homemade pretzel bites that bake up golden brown and irresistibly tender. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy evenings — ready in just 30 minutes!

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Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 15

Dough Rising Time: 45

Total Time: 1 20

Servings: servings (about 32–36 bites)

Calories: 285kcal

Cost: $8

Equipment

1 Stand mixer with dough hook Optional; kneading can also be done by hand
1 Large stockpot For boiling pretzel bites in the baking soda bath
1 Slotted spoon or spider strainer For removing bites from the boiling water safely
1 Baking sheets Line with parchment paper
1 Parchment paper Prevents sticking; do not substitute with foil
1 Pastry brush For brushing melted butter evenly
1 Kitchen scale Helpful for even portions (optional)
1 Instant-read thermometer Ensures perfect yeast activation (105–115°F)

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough

2 ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast 1 packet; creates soft airy texture
1 tablespoon granulated sugar Feeds yeast and adds slight sweetness
1 ¼ cups warm water About 110°F; activates yeast
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour Use bread flour for chewier texture
1 teaspoon salt Balances the flavor
2 tablespoon melted butter Adds richness and tenderness

For the Cheese Filling

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese Cut into small cubes; melts beautifully
4 oz cream cheese Optional; adds extra creaminess

For the Baking Soda Bath

8 cups water For boiling
⅓ cup baking soda Creates that signature pretzel flavor & color

For Topping

3 tablespoon melted butter For brushing before & after baking
coarse sea salt Classic pretzel topping
garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning Optional for flavor variety

Instructions

Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl; let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and melted butter; knead until smooth and elastic (6–8 minutes).
Cover and let dough rise for 45–60 minutes until doubled in size.
Punch down dough, divide into 4 portions, roll each into long ropes (¾ inch thick).
Cut into 1-inch pieces; flatten, fill with cheddar cube, and pinch to seal.
Bring water and baking soda to a boil; drop bites in batches for 30 seconds.
Remove with slotted spoon, place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Brush with more butter after baking and cool 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Nutrition