How to Make the Perfect Soft Pretzels with Beer Cheese Fondue
American · Medium · 55 min · 6 servings
Pillowy homemade soft pretzels served alongside a rich and savory beer cheese dipping sauce. A classic pub-inspired pairing that is deeply satisfying.
Why this recipe works
This Soft Pretzels with Beer Cheese Fondue recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 55 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 610 calories with 22g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 10 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast 0.25 oz
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 0.25 cup baking soda
- 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup lager beer
- 2 tbsp butter
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Dough
In a large bowl combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzels
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Divide dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about 24 inches long. Form each rope into a U shape, twist the ends twice, then fold them down to create the classic pretzel shape.
Step 3: Baking Soda Bath and Bake
Bring 4 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a wide pot. Dip each pretzel into the bath for 30 seconds, then place on a lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until deep golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Beer Cheese Fondue
In a medium saucepan over medium heat melt the butter. Pour in the lager beer and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Serve Together
Transfer the warm beer cheese fondue to a serving bowl or small fondue pot. Arrange the fresh-baked pretzels on a board alongside the fondue. Serve immediately while everything is hot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- lager beer → non-alcoholic beer or low-sodium chicken broth
- sharp cheddar cheese → Gruyere or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile
- all-purpose flour → bread flour for a chewier pretzel texture
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the baking soda bath which is essential for achieving the signature dark color and chewy crust on soft pretzels
- Adding cheese to the fondue all at once instead of gradually which causes the sauce to become grainy and separated
- Under-kneading the dough which results in pretzels that are dense and do not have the proper soft and chewy texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 610 calories, 22g protein, 70g carbs, 25g fat, 3g fiber.
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