Description
These Twisted Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels are a flavorful twist on the classic soft pretzel, featuring a perfect balance of spicy jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese. Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, they make an irresistible snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup Warm Water (100-110°F)
- 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 3 cups Flour (adjust as needed for slightly tacky dough)
Filling and Topping
- 1 cup Jalapeños (finely minced)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (good melting variety)
- 1 tablespoon Baking Soda (for boiling solution)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Coarse Salt (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons Melted Butter (brushed on after baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour while mixing to form a dough. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and slightly tacky, adding more flour if necessary. Once formed, cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- Incorporate Jalapeños and Cheese: After the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in the finely minced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape the Pretzels: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a long rope. Twist each rope into the classic pretzel shape or your preferred twisted design.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the tablespoon of baking soda carefully—this will create a slightly alkaline bath that gives pretzels their characteristic chewy crust.
- Baking Soda Dip: Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash and Salt: Beat the egg and brush it generously over the surface of each pretzel. Sprinkle the coarse salt on top for added flavor and crunch.
- Bake the Pretzels: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzels for 10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Add Finishing Touch: Once out of the oven, immediately brush the pretzels with melted butter for richness and a glossy finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapeños or use milder peppers.
- Ensure the water for yeast activation is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- For a vegan version, substitute egg wash with plant-based milk and use vegan cheese and butter alternatives.
- You can freeze leftover pretzels and reheat them in the oven for a fresh-tasting snack.
- Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or herbs on top before baking enhances flavor.
