Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites with Sea Salt Topping

Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites with Sea Salt Topping are the ultimate snack for game day, parties, or anytime you’re craving something warm, soft, and totally addictive. These bite-sized pieces are soft on the inside, golden and chewy on the outside, and filled with melted cheese that oozes with every bite. Topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, they’re everything you love about soft pretzels—taken up a notch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pretzel bites are a perfect mash-up of comfort food and party appetizer. The rich, gooey cheese center makes them irresistible, while the homemade pretzel dough gives them that iconic chewy texture. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to impress. Serve them with mustard, cheese dip, or marinara for the ultimate snacking experience.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Instant yeast
• Warm water
• Sugar
• Salt
• Baking soda (for boiling)
• Shredded or cubed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt (for topping)

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour and salt, then mix and knead until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes, then cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Divide dough into small pieces. Flatten each one and place a cube or small amount of cheese in the center. Pinch and seal the dough around the cheese to form a ball.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 20 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
6. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving—be cautious, the cheese inside will be hot and gooey!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30 pretzel bites.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Different cheeses: Try pepper jack, gouda, or fontina for fun flavor twists.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the dough or filling.
• Garlic butter topping: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley to brush on after baking.
• Stuff with extras: Add a bit of bacon, ham, or caramelized onion with the cheese.
• Sweet option: Skip the cheese and salt, bake plain, then coat in cinnamon sugar and serve with icing.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat directly from frozen for quick snacks.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. For best texture, use the oven.

FAQs

What kind of cheese works best for the filling?

Firm cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda melt well and stay inside without leaking.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pizza dough or refrigerated biscuit dough can be used in a pinch for quicker prep.

Why do I need to boil the dough in baking soda water?

This gives the pretzels their signature chewy crust and golden-brown color.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Bring to room temperature before shaping.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the dough tightly around the cheese and ensure the seams are on the bottom when baking.

Can I use coarse kosher salt instead of sea salt?

Yes, coarse kosher salt works well for topping, though pretzel or flaky sea salt offers a better crunch.

Are these good for parties?

Absolutely—they’re perfect finger food, especially when served with dips.

What dip pairs well with these pretzel bites?

Cheese sauce, spicy mustard, ranch, or marinara are all great choices.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust for texture as needed. Make sure your yeast and cheese are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand—just give it about 8–10 minutes of kneading until smooth and elastic.

Conclusion

Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites with Sea Salt Topping are everything you want in a snack—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, with just the right amount of salt and richness. Whether you’re entertaining guests, watching the game, or just treating yourself, these bite-sized indulgences will quickly become a favorite. Once you try them fresh out of the oven, you’ll never look at soft pretzels the same way again.

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