Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Soft Pretzels with Parmesan and Hard Cider Cheese. Their warm, fluffy texture and golden-brown crust make every bite a delight, complemented perfectly by a rich, cheesy dip. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms any occasion into a celebration of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 tsp sea salt
½ cup baking soda (for boiling)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup hard cider (for dipping)
8 oz cream cheese (full-fat for best results)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes).
2. Mix the Dough: In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let it Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
5. Shape Pretzels: Punch down risen dough; divide into equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes; twist into pretzel shapes.
6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 450°F. Boil shaped pretzels in baking soda water for about 30 seconds, then place on parchment-lined trays. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 210
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheese varieties or toppings like garlic salt or everything bagel seasoning to customize your pretzels. For extra shine, brush the pretzels with an egg wash before baking.