Description
These Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and baked to golden perfection. Stuffed with melty cheese and finished with a touch of flaky sea salt, they’re everything you love about soft pretzels—plus a surprise cheesy center. Perfect for snacking, dipping, or sharing with a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Dough:
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1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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3 3/4 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
For Boiling:
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8 cups water
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1/3 cup baking soda
For Filling & Topping:
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6 oz cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Flaky sea salt, for topping
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Optional: 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing after baking)
Instructions
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Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in salt, melted butter, and 3 3/4 cups flour. Knead for about 5–7 minutes (by hand or mixer), adding more flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic. -
Let It Rise:
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. -
Shape the Bites:
Punch down the dough and divide into about 24 small pieces. Flatten each piece into a disk, place a cube of cheese in the center, and pinch the dough around the cheese to seal. Roll gently into a ball. -
Boil the Bites:
Bring 8 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, boil the dough balls for 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each bite with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
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Finish & Serve:
Optional: Brush warm pretzel bites with melted butter for extra flavor. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey. Enjoy with mustard, marinara, or cheese dip if desired!
Notes
Make ahead: Prepare dough and shape bites, then refrigerate or freeze before boiling/baking.
Cheese options: Try pepper jack for spice or gouda for a smoky flavor.
To reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or pop in an air fryer for 2–3 minutes.