Soft Pretzels with flaked sea salt and IPA Beer Cheese
These pretzels were crispy on the outside and fluffy chewy on the inside and then you dunk into the melty beer cheese dip, it’s perfect for any get together, game day or snack. They are great to reheat in the oven for 5 minutes as well. Or you can freeze them for up to a month in an airtight container.
Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tbsp. granulated sugar
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1 package (2 1/2 tsp) dry active yeast
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for kneading
- 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- egg wash
- flaked sea salt
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
Add the warm water, sugar, salt and yeast to a large bowl with metal hook attachment. Let it sit for about 5 minutes just until the yeast gets foamy.
Once foamy add the flour and butter and slowly start mixing. Gradually, if needed, add a little more flour until the dough pulls away for the side of the bowl. Remove from bowl and start kneading on floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes just until the dough ball is smooth and elastic. Let rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each one into a long rope about 12-24 inches depending how big you want your pretzels. Form a U shape and twist the pretzel. Place them on prepared baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large shallow pot combine the 10 cups of water and baking soda and bring to boil just until the baking soda dissolves. Gently dunk each pretzel into the water and place back on the baking sheet. This creates that beautiful golden crust. Brush each one with egg wash and sprinkle with the sea salt. Bake for about 12-14 minutes or just until golden.
IPA Beer Cheese Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. garlic, minced
- 4 oz. cream cheese
- 1 cup grated white cheddar
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup IPA beer
- 3-4 dashes hot sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley optional
Directions
In a small sauce pan heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic just until translucent. Add the cream cheese, white cheddar, mozzarella, beer, hot sauce, season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and whisk it all melt together until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Pour into serving bowl and garnish with parsley serve warm.