Let’s indulge in the delicious world of homemade Cheddar-Stuffed Pretzel Bites with a side of mustard! As a fan of tasty snacks, I find this recipe incredibly satisfying not just in flavor but also in the joy of creating them from scratch. If you’re ready to impress family and friends with something unique and delicious, follow along!

First, let’s gather our ingredients. You will need:

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
• Your favorite mustard for dipping

Start by activating the yeast. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, which means your yeast is alive and kicking! I love this step because it indicates that my pretzel bites are going to be fluffy and delicious.

Next, add your flour and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form. I usually use my hands to knead the dough for around 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, feel free to sprinkle a bit of flour until you reach the desired consistency. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). As I prepare the baking soda bath, I fill a large pot with about 10 cups of water and add the baking soda. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This step gives your pretzel bites that characteristic flavor and gorgeous brown color.

Now it’s time to shape your pretzel bites! Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a long rope and cut it into bite-sized pieces. I like to flatten each piece slightly before placing a cheddar cube in the center. Then, carefully fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the sides to seal them well. This step is key to ensuring the cheese doesn’t ooze out during baking.

Once your bites are formed, gently lower them into the simmering baking soda bath for about 30 seconds. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each bite with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake your pretzel bites in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until they are golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time will surely heighten your excitement!

When they are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve these delightful Cheddar-Stuffed Pretzel Bites with a side of your favorite mustard for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this exquisite creation, and I hope it becomes a staple for your gatherings and cozy nights in!