Pretzel Sticks with Cheese Dip Recipe

Imagine the heartwarming aroma of freshly baked pretzel sticks wafting through your kitchen, their golden-brown crust whispering of the perfect bite. This delightful Pretzel Sticks with Cheese Dip Recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a masterpiece. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or festive holiday celebrations, this recipe is all about bringing loved ones together and creating memories. Join us as we embark on this culinary journey, celebrating the art of making delicious pretzel sticks paired with a creamy, indulgent cheese dip that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

Pretzel Sticks:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Cheese Dip:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate cup, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
3. Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes.
5. While the dough is rising, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into pretzel stick lengths.
7. Boil the pretzel sticks in the baking soda water for 30 seconds, then transfer to the prepared baking tray.
8. Brush the boiled pretzel sticks with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
10. For the cheese dip, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
11. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
12. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mustard powder until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
13. Serve the freshly baked pretzel sticks warm, alongside the creamy cheese dip.

Helpful Tips

• Ensure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to ensure proper activation.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until manageable.
• For a twist, add garlic powder or paprika to the cheese dip for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover pretzel sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. The cheese dip can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Pairings

These pretzel sticks pair wonderfully with a tangy salad, a fresh fruit platter, or a warm bowl of soup. As for drinks, a glass of fresh lemonade or a creamy hot chocolate would complement this dish perfectly.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen. We hope you delight in making and sharing these pretzel sticks with cheese dip as much as we do. We’d love to hear about your culinary adventures, so please tag us and share your creations. Share this recipe with friends and family, and inspire them to gather around the kitchen. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and join our newsletter for more delightful culinary inspirations. Happy cooking!