Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Sauce

 

Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Sauce: The Ultimate Party Snack

Warm, soft, golden-brown pretzel bites served with a rich, creamy beer cheese sauce—this is the kind of snack dreams are made of. Whether you're hosting game day, throwing a casual get-together, or just craving something salty and cheesy, these Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Sauce are guaranteed to steal the show.

Forget the frozen stuff. Homemade pretzel bites are easier than you think—and so worth the effort. Pair them with a silky beer cheese dip, and you've got the ultimate comfort food combo that disappears faster than you can say “snack time.”

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture: Soft on the inside, golden and chewy on the outside.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at parties, game nights, or anytime you're entertaining.

• Customizable: Choose your favorite beer and cheese for a sauce that fits your flavor profile.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the pretzel bites and cheese sauce can be made ahead and reheated!

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Ingredients

For the Pretzel Bites:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)

• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup baking soda (for boiling water)

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Coarse salt, for topping

For the Beer Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup beer (lager or ale works best)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Make the Pretzel Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Stir in flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix and knead until a soft dough forms—about 5–7 minutes.

3. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape & Boil:

4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 pieces. Roll each into a rope and cut into 1-inch bites.

6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda (carefully—it will bubble up!). Boil the pretzel bites in batches for 30 seconds, then transfer to the baking sheet.

7. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake:

8. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Make the Beer Cheese Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes.

2. Slowly whisk in the beer and milk, stirring constantly until smooth.

3. Add mustard, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until slightly thickened.

4. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Tips & Variations

• Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to add pepper jack or gouda for extra flavor.

• No Beer? Sub in chicken broth or all milk for an alcohol-free version.

• Pretzel Seasoning: Try everything bagel seasoning or cinnamon sugar for a twist!

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Final Thoughts

These Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese Sauce are everything you want in a snack—warm, salty, buttery, and dunked in cheesy, savory goodness. Once you make them from scratch, there’s no going back.

Whether you're watching the game, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time. Pro tip: Make a double batch—you’ll thank yourself later.