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Twisted Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels

Twisted Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels
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Twisted Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels are crispy, cheesy snacks combining the sharp tang of cheddar cheese with the heat of jalapeños in a twisted, crunchy pretzel base. Perfectly balanced with a spicy kick and melty cheese pockets, these pretzels are great for any occasion, easy to customize, and ideal for portable munching.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños (seeded or with seeds based on preferred spice level)
  • 1 cup finely grated sharp cheddar cheese

Boiling and Finishing

  • 10 cups water
  • 2/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Optional toppings: flaky sea salt, extra shredded cheddar, thin jalapeño slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and a tablespoon of sugar. Wait until the mixture is bubbly and active. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Mix in the yeast mixture and knead the dough until smooth. Fold in the finely chopped jalapeños and grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly throughout the dough. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Shape the Pretzels: Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope and twist into classic pretzel shapes or creative spirals for a twisted look.
  3. Boil in Baking Soda Water: Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil. Briefly boil each shaped pretzel for about 30 seconds, then remove and drain on a clean towel. This step creates the chewy, deep brown crust typical of pretzels.
  4. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush each boiled pretzel with the beaten egg wash to give them a shiny, golden exterior. Optionally, sprinkle with extra cheese, jalapeños, or flaky sea salt. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until beautifully browned and the cheese is bubbling.
  5. Cool and Enjoy: Allow pretzels to cool slightly before serving. This lets the cheese set while keeping the exterior crisp and the interior soft.

Notes

  • Chop jalapeños finely and fold gently to ensure even spicy bursts throughout the dough.
  • Do not skip the baking soda water bath; it is essential for authentic pretzel crust and flavor.
  • Use sharp cheddar for the most pronounced cheesy flavor.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat without sacrificing flavor.
  • Shape and boil pretzels soon after rising to maintain dough elasticity and freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzels, jalapeño, cheddar, spicy snack, baked pretzels, cheesy pretzels, appetizer

Find it online: https://withnora.com/twisted-jalapeo-cheddar-pretzels/