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Crispy Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Dip

Bavarian Pretzel Bites - featured image
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Quick and easy bite-sized pretzels made in an air fryer with a baking soda bath, served with a rich, tangy homemade beer cheese dip. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups (375g) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) Warm Water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
  • ½ cup Baking Soda (for bath)
  • Coarse Sea Salt (for sprinkling)
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup Lager or Pilsner beer
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (for dip)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add remaining flour until dough pulls away from sides.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. While dough rises, fill a large pot with water and stir in baking soda until dissolved. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Punch down dough. Roll into a rope and cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  7. Drop dough pieces into the simmering baking soda water for 30 seconds per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon.
  8. Place boiled pieces in an air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with oil and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  9. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
  10. For the dip, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in garlic powder, mustard, Worcestershire, and cayenne.
  11. Slowly add beer and stir. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
  12. Serve pretzel bites warm with the beer cheese dip.

Notes

Do not use pre-shredded cheese for the dip as anti-caking agents prevent smooth melting. Ensure yeast is fresh by checking for foam. Keep dough covered during rising to prevent a dry skin. Melt cheese on low heat to avoid separation; if it seizes, add a tablespoon of cold milk and whisk vigorously. Use a beer you enjoy drinking for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, air fryer recipes, game day snacks, bavarian pretzels, easy appetizer, football food

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/crispy-bavarian-pretzel-bites-with-beer-cheese-dip/