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Crispy Bavarian Pretzel Bites with Warm Beer Cheese Dip

crispy Bavarian pretzel bites - featured image

Quick and easy game-day snack featuring refrigerated biscuit dough boiled in a baking soda bath for an authentic pretzel crust, served with a rich, creamy warm beer cheese dip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tube (8 count) refrigerated flaky biscuit dough
  • 8 cups water
  • 1/3 cup baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for dip)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup lager or pilsner beer
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Separate the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into four equal pieces.
  3. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Carefully stir in 1/3 cup baking soda until dissolved.
  4. Working in batches, boil the dough pieces for 30 seconds on each side until they puff up and turn glossy brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
  7. While bites bake, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until light blonde.
  8. Slowly whisk in beer, then milk, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  9. Reduce heat to low. Add grated cheddar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne. Stir until smooth and melted. Do not boil.
  10. Serve immediately with the warm pretzel bites.

Notes

Do not boil the dough for more than 30 seconds to avoid a soapy taste. Use freshly grated block cheese for the dip to ensure smooth melting; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that cause graininess. If the dip separates, whisk in a splash of cold milk to fix it. For gluten-free options, use GF biscuit dough and ensure the beer and flour are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, beer cheese dip, game day snacks, easy appetizer, Bavarian pretzels, party food, quick recipes