Description
Enjoy warm, soft, and buttery homemade pretzels that are perfectly golden on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside. Paired with a creamy Salsa Verde cheese sauce, these pretzels make the ultimate comfort snack or party appetizer. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a must-try recipe for any baking enthusiast!
Ingredients
For the pretzel dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 package active dry yeast (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the pretzel bath & topping:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- Pretzel salt
- Non-stick cooking spray
For the Salsa Verde cheese sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 (4 oz) packet Velveeta cheese sauce
- 1/3 cup Salsa Verde
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and salt. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix & Knead: Add flour and melted butter, mixing on low speed. Increase to medium speed and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl (4-5 minutes).
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 50-55 minutes until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pretzels: Preheat the oven to 450°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a 24-inch rope. Shape into pretzels and place on the baking sheets.
- Boil & Bake: Carefully place each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove and return to the baking sheet. Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a paste. Slowly add milk, stirring until thickened. Add grated cheddar and Velveeta cheese sauce, stirring until smooth. Stir in Salsa Verde and salt to taste. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American