Cheesy Stuffed Pretzel Bites
Golden, soft pretzel bites filled with a savory mix of Muenster and Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for gamedays, parties, or a cozy snack, these bites combine a crisp exterior with a gooey, melty cheese center. Quick, satisfying, and protein-rich, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat you can make at home in just over an hour.
Equipment
- 1 countertop mixer
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 large oiled bowl
- 1 11” or 12” cast iron skillet
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ Tbsp brown sugar
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup + 2 Tbsp warm water
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 Tbsp baking soda
- 8 oz Cabot Muenster cheese shredded
- 8 oz Cabot Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
- 2 Tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough Base: In the bowl of a countertop mixer, combine 2½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, ½ Tbsp brown sugar, and 2¼ tsp active dry yeast. Pour in ¾ cup plus 2 Tbsp of warm water (around 105–110°F) gradually. Using the dough hook attachment, start mixing at low speed until the ingredients come together into a rough, sticky dough. Then, increase the speed to medium and knead for 5–6 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
- First Rise – Let Dough Rest: Lightly oil a large mixing bowl with a neutral oil, then transfer your kneaded dough into it. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area around 85°F for 30 minutes to allow the dough to rise. (Tip: An easy trick is to place the covered bowl inside your oven with the oven light turned on; this creates a cozy, warm environment.) The dough should double in size and feel soft and airy when touched.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling: While the dough is rising, grab a medium mixing bowl and combine 8 oz shredded Cabot Muenster and 8 oz shredded Cabot Monterey Jack cheese. Stir thoroughly to ensure the two cheeses are evenly mixed. This will create a flavorful, gooey filling that melts beautifully inside the pretzel bites.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a heatproof container or small saucepan, carefully combine 1 cup boiling water with 2 Tbsp baking soda, stirring until fully dissolved. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly. This alkaline bath will give the pretzel bites their signature glossy, deep-golden crust.
- Divide and Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 16 equal portions using a sharp knife or dough scraper. Flatten each portion into a 3-inch square, ensuring the dough is even but not too thin to prevent tearing.
- Stuff the Pretzel Bites: Place a generous amount of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough square. Carefully fold the edges over the cheese, pinching and sealing all seams tightly. Proper sealing is crucial to keep the cheese from leaking during baking. Once sealed, roll each dough ball gently between your palms to create a smooth, tight, round shape.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C) while shaping the pretzel bites. Position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even baking.
- Bath the Pretzel Bites: Submerge each dough ball in the prepared baking soda and water bath for approximately 2 minutes. Ensure the pretzel is mostly covered; spoon water over the top if necessary. Carefully remove the pretzels from the bath using a slotted spoon and place them into a greased 11–12” cast iron skillet.
- Salt and Rest Before Baking: Sprinkle coarse salt evenly over each pretzel bite. Allow the pretzels to rest uncovered for 10 minutes. This step helps the surface dry slightly, which contributes to the perfect pretzel texture. Using a sharp knife, gently cut a small “X” on top of each pretzel bite. This allows the cheese to expand slightly while baking and adds a decorative touch.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the pretzel bites turn a rich, golden-brown color. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Finish with Butter Glaze: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Immediately brush 2 Tbsp melted butter over each pretzel bite while still hot. This adds a glossy sheen, extra flavor, and a slightly softer exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the Cheesy Stuffed Pretzel Bites to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for a melty, gooey cheese experience. They pair perfectly with mustard, cheese sauce, or a light beer. These bites can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or party treat, and they reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure your yeast is active by using warm (not hot) water, around 105–110°F. This guarantees a proper rise.
- Seal the cheese inside the dough very well; gaps can cause the cheese to leak during baking.
- Use a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe pan for even browning and a crisp exterior.
- Do not skip the baking soda bath—it’s essential for the characteristic pretzel flavor and glossy finish.
- Adjust resting and rising times depending on room temperature; cooler kitchens may require slightly longer proofing.
