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Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups warm water, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 2 teaspoons salt. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the flour and mix until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape into a pretzel. Dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the pretzels with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the pretzels are baking, prepare the cheese dip. In a saucepan, whisk together 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the warm pretzels with the cheese dip and enjoy!
Soft pretzels with cheese dip have a rich history dating back to the 12th century in Europe, where monks are believed to have created the first pretzels as a reward for children who learned their prayers. The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 18th century, particularly in Pennsylvania, where German immigrants introduced the pretzel to the region. Today, soft pretzels with cheese dip are a beloved snack or appetizer, often found in sports stadiums, breweries, and restaurants across the country. Notable chefs and restaurants, such as Auntie Anne's and Philly Pretzel Factory, have perfected the art of crafting soft, chewy pretzels paired with creamy, tangy cheese dip. The best version of this dish can be found in Philadelphia, where the soft pretzels are often served with a side of warm, gooey cheese dip made from a blend of cheddar and cream cheese. The key to achieving the perfect soft pretzel lies in the dough, which should be properly kneaded and allowed to rise before being boiled in a baking soda solution to achieve its signature chewy texture and golden-brown crust. As for the cheese dip, using high-quality cheeses and a touch of mustard or hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. For those looking to recreate this classic snack at home, an alternative method involves using a slow cooker to prepare the cheese dip, allowing the flavors to meld together while the pretzels are being baked in the oven. Whether enjoyed as a game day treat or a casual indulgence, soft pretzels with cheese dip continue to be a timeless favorite for food enthusiasts of all ages.
45 min
8 pretzels and 2 cups of cheese dip
320 per serving calories
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