Name: Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F); 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 package active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons); 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup melted butter; 10 cups water (for boiling); 2/3 cup baking soda; 1 large egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash); Pretzel salt (for sprinkling); Non-stick cooking spray; 2 tablespoons butter (for cheese sauce); 2 tablespoons flour; 1 cup milk; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 (4 oz) packet Velveeta cheese sauce; 1/3 cup Salsa Verde; Salt to taste

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Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce are a wonderfully delightful and tempting treat that will take your taste buds on a savory journey. These deep-golden pretzels have a perfectly crisp exterior paired with a chewy, warm inside, creating the ideal snack or appetizer. Paired with a zesty Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is simply irresistible. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll discover how easy it is to make these pretzels right in your own kitchen, making it a must-try for everyone!

Making soft pretzels at home is not just about snacking; it’s about coming together with family and friends, sharing laughter, and indulging in a culinary experience that warms the heart. These homemade pretzels are perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or even just a cozy evening in. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients makes this recipe welcoming to all cooking levels, ensuring that even beginners can create these fantastic bites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creating Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce is not only enjoyable but also comes with a variety of benefits. First and foremost, the prep is easy, making it a fun activity for the whole family. With minimal ingredients and no complicated techniques, you can have a delicious snack ready in no time. This recipe brings a traditional favorite with a contemporary twist, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds!

When you prepare these pretzels and cheese sauce from scratch, you ensure that every bite is fresh and bursting with goodness. The use of common pantry staples means you won’t have to make a special trip to the grocery store. Gather your loved ones around the kitchen for this fun and interactive food adventure!

Ingredients for Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

The components of Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce are familiar yet rewarding, elevating your culinary creations:

For the Pretzels:

1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115 degrees F)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 package active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons)
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup melted butter
10 cups water (for boiling)
2/3 cup baking soda
1 large egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Pretzel salt (for sprinkling)
Non-stick cooking spray

For the Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 (4 oz) packet Velveeta cheese sauce
1/3 cup Salsa Verde
Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Make the Pretzel Dough

To kick off your delicious pretzel-making adventure, combine the warm water, sugar, and kosher salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. Carefully sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, letting the yeast bloom. Add 2 cups of flour and the melted butter into the mixture, followed by gradually adding the remaining flour until everything is smooth and comes together. Carefully transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 50-55 minutes until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Boil Pretzels

While waiting for your dough to rise, preheat the oven to a deliciously hot 450°F. After your dough has risen, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Once boiling, divide the risen dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each piece into a pretzel form and carefully boil each pretzel for 30 seconds. Drain them, then brush with egg wash and sprinkle with pretzel salt.

Step 3: Bake Pretzels

Once all pretzels are ready, bake them in your preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until they achieve a delightful golden brown color. After baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!

Step 4: Make Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

While the pretzels are baking, let’s whip up the delicious Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually stir in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens. When you see it come together, add the grated cheddar cheese and Velveeta, stirring until melted. Finally, fold in the Salsa Verde and adjust salt to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy texture.

Tips & Tricks

To make your pretzels even more uniquely yours, consider adding special seasonings, such as garlic powder or even Italian herbs, to the dough before shaping. Also, try different toppings—like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning—if you want to switch things up from the traditional pretzel salt. When creating your cheese sauce, feel free to adjust the salsa verde according to your heat preference; you can go mild or spicy!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present your Homemade Soft Pretzels alongside a vibrant plate of fresh vegetables, such as crisp bell peppers and crunchy carrots, to create a fantastic appetizer platter. Serve the Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce in a fun dip bowl for easy sharing. For a more festive presentation, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top of the sauce; it adds a splash of color and a burst of freshness. Pair these delightful bites with your favorite beverages, whether it be homemade lemonade, refreshing iced tea, or even a non-alcoholic beer for an authentic pub experience.

Nutritional Information

While Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce can be an indulgent treat, they also provide a good source of carbohydrates, helping to keep your energy levels high. Keep in mind that indulgence is key in this recipe, so enjoy every bite with no guilt! An estimated serving may contain around 300 calories, with additional nutritional benefits from the cheese sauce component, enriching your meal with proteins and fats.

Storing Tips & Variations for Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

If you end up with any leftover pretzels, keep them fresh by carefully wrapping them in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes until they’re freshly baked again!

To make this recipe healthier, you can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also experiment with dairy-free cheese options and almond milk for a cruelty-free alternative in the cheese sauce.

Conclusion for Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

Now that you’ve learned everything there is to know about making Homemade Soft Pretzels with Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start creating. The comforting aroma of freshly baked pretzels warming your kitchen will tempt anyone nearby. Treat your loved ones or indulge yourself with this delightfully chewy snack paired with a creamy, zesty sauce. You won’t regret it!

FAQs

1. Can I make the pretzel dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

2. What can I do if I don’t have an egg for the wash?
You can substitute the egg wash with a mixture of milk and a pinch of salt to help achieve that lovely golden color.

3. How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
Your dough should have at least doubled in size, appearing puffy and soft to the touch.

4. Can I fry the pretzels instead of baking them?
While baking is traditional, frying is another option! Just be aware that it may change the texture and flavor.

5. What other sauces can I serve with pretzels?
Aside from Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce, you can try honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo dip for a fun twist!