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Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites with Sea Salt Topping

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These Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites are soft, golden-brown, and stuffed with melty cheese, then topped with flaky sea salt. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or game-day treat!

Ingredients

Scale
For the Pretzel Dough:
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheese Filling:
  • 6 oz block cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack), cut into ½-inch cubes
For the Baking Soda Bath:
  • 4 cups water
  • ¼ cup baking soda
For Topping:

 

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt or pretzel salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

Make the Pretzel Dough:

Activate the Yeast:

 

In a bowl, stir together warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Mix & Knead Dough:

 

Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.

Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Cover and let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Assemble the Pretzel Bites:

Cut & Stuff the Dough:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal sections. Roll each section into a rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.

Flatten each piece, place a cheese cube inside, and pinch edges tightly to seal.

Baking Soda Bath:

Boil for Pretzel Texture:

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in baking soda.

Drop pretzel bites in, a few at a time, for 20-30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.

Bake & Serve:

Bake Until Golden:

 

Brush bites with egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Add Buttery Finish:

 

Brush hot pretzels with melted butter.

Serve warm with cheese dip, mustard, or ranch!

Notes

  • Want extra gooey cheese? Use string cheese for the filling!
  • Make them spicy by adding a pinch of cayenne to the dough.
  • Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated at 350°F for 5 minutes.