Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Recipe

Indulge in the scrumptious taste of homemade pretzel bites paired with a creamy mustard cheese sauce. These bite-sized treats are a perfect snack for any gathering or simply for a cozy night in. The soft, chewy pretzels blend wonderfully with the tangy, rich mustard cheese sauce creating a delightful explosion of flavors.

Photos of Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe might be readily available in your pantry, there's one you might need to look out for at the supermarket: baking soda. You'll be using this ingredient to give the pretzels their signature taste and texture. Moreover, if you don't usually bake, you might need to pick up some pizza dough. It's usually available in the refrigerated or frozen section.

Ingredients for Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

Pizza dough: This will be the base for your pretzel bites. It's easy to use and saves you the trouble of making dough from scratch.

Baking soda: This gives pretzels their distinctive chewy crust and slight tang. It's what differentiates a pretzel from regular bread.

Egg: Used to make an egg wash for the pretzels, which gives them a golden, shiny crust.

Coarse salt: Sprinkled on top of the pretzels for texture and flavor.

Butter: Adds creaminess to your mustard cheese sauce.

Flour: It helps to thicken the cheese sauce.

Milk: The liquid base of your cheese sauce.

Honey mustard: Gives your cheese sauce a tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor.

Cheddar cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the cheese sauce.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a little tang to your cheese sauce, balancing out the richness.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors.

One reader, Faythe Babcock says:

These pretzel bites with mustard cheese sauce are a game-changer! The pretzels are perfectly soft and chewy, and the cheese sauce is incredibly flavorful. The combination of the two is simply divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a crowd-pleaser for sure!

Faythe Babcock

Techniques Required for Making Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

How to prepare pretzel dough: Roll the pizza dough into balls slightly smaller than the size of a golf ball.

How to cook pretzel dough: Bring a pot of water to a simmer, then stir in the baking soda. Add the dough balls and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from the water and place them on a parchment-lined sheet tray.

How to make cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the milk while whisking. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk begins to thicken slightly. Add in the French’s honey mustard, cheese, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Let the cheese sauce bubble for a few more minutes to thicken up slightly.

How To Make Pretzel Bites With Mustard Cheese Sauce

Made from store-bought pizza dough, these chewy pretzel bites are baked to perfection for toasty snacks that go best with rich mustard sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 16 minutes

Total: 31 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbpizza dough
¼cupbaking soda
1egg,whisked
coarse salt,to taste
¼cupbutter
¼cupflour
2cupsmilk
1½tbsphoney mustard,such as French’s
2cupscheddar cheese,shredded
2tspapple cider vinegar
1½tspsalt
1tsppepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Roll the pizza dough into balls slightly smaller than the size of a golf ball.
Bring a pot of water to a simmer, then stir in the baking soda. Add the dough balls and cook for 30 seconds.
Remove from the water and place them on a parchment-lined sheet tray.
Brush each dough ball with egg wash and sprinkle with a bit of coarse salt.
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until pretzels turn a deep brown color.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the milk while whisking. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk begins to thicken slightly.
Add in the French’s Honey Mustard, cheese, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Let the cheese sauce bubble for a few more minutes to thicken up slightly.
Serve immediately with the pretzel bites and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 477.36kcal
Fat: 22.53g
Saturated Fat: 12.09g
Trans Fat: 0.62g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.72g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.13g
Carbohydrates: 49.33g
Fiber: 2.61g
Sugar: 3.95g
Protein: 18.62g
Cholesterol: 75.01mg
Sodium: 2688.78mg
Calcium: 366.85mg
Potassium: 222.62mg
Iron: 2.80mg
Vitamin A: 172.22µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pretzel Bites

When making the mustard cheese sauce, it's important to add the cheese gradually and keep the heat low. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly without clumping or burning. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out. Remember, the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so it's better to err on the side of too thin rather than too thick.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pretzel Bites

Prep ahead: Prepare the pretzel dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will save time on the day you plan to make the pretzel bites.

Use store-bought dough: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch. This can significantly cut down on prep time.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch of pretzel bites and freeze the extras for later. Simply reheat them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy them.

Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. This will streamline the cooking process and minimize the chances of overlooking an item.

Prep the cheese sauce: While the pretzel bites are baking, prepare the cheese sauce simultaneously to save time. This way, both components will be ready to enjoy together.

Substitute Ingredients For Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Recipe

pizza dough - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can provide a flaky and buttery texture, adding a different dimension to the pretzel bites.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda in this recipe, as it will help the dough rise and achieve a similar texture.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed and allowed to thicken): This vegan alternative can provide binding properties similar to eggs in the dough.
coarse salt - Substitute with sea salt flakes: Sea salt flakes can provide a similar crunchy texture and enhance the flavor of the pretzel bites.
butter - Substitute with vegan butter or margarine: This substitution can cater to dietary preferences without compromising the rich and creamy texture of the cheese sauce.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to achieve a similar consistency in the cheese sauce.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: This dairy-free alternative can be used to create a creamy cheese sauce without the use of dairy products.
honey mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard + honey: Mixing Dijon mustard with honey can replicate the sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can provide a rich and nutty flavor, complementing the cheese sauce and adding a unique twist to the recipe.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can offer a similar level of acidity and tanginess to balance the flavors in the cheese sauce.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, adding a subtle warmth to the cheese sauce.

Presenting Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

Elevate the pretzel bites: Arrange the pretzel bites in a circular pattern on a sleek, minimalist plate to showcase their golden brown color and irresistible texture.
Drizzle the mustard cheese sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to elegantly drizzle the creamy mustard cheese sauce in a zigzag pattern over the pretzel bites, creating an artistic and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives or parsley over the pretzel bites and cheese sauce to add a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Place a small dish of coarse salt next to the pretzel bites for diners to sprinkle on top, adding a delightful crunch and enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Add a touch of sophistication with serving utensils: Present the pretzel bites and mustard cheese sauce with sleek, modern serving utensils, such as mini tongs or elegant dipping spoons, to elevate the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Pretzel Bites

Pizza dough: Prepared dough used for making pretzel bites.
Baking soda: Used to give the pretzel bites their characteristic brown color and flavor.
Egg: Used for egg wash to give the pretzel bites a shiny, golden crust.
Coarse salt: Sprinkled on top of the pretzel bites for flavor and texture.
Butter: Used to make the base of the cheese sauce.
Flour: Used as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce.
Saucepan: Used for making the cheese sauce.
Whisk: Used for stirring and combining ingredients, particularly for making the cheese sauce.
Sheet tray: Used for baking the pretzel bites in the oven.
Parchment paper: Lined on the sheet tray to prevent the pretzel bites from sticking.
Pot: Used for simmering water and cooking the pretzel bites.
French’s honey mustard: Adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the cheese sauce.
Cheddar cheese: Used to make the cheese sauce.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the cheese sauce.

Storing and Freezing Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

To store leftover pretzel bites, allow them to cool completely before placing in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled pretzel bites in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the frozen pretzels on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
The mustard cheese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
It is not recommended to freeze the cheese sauce, as the texture may become grainy and separated upon thawing. For best results, prepare the sauce fresh when needed.
If you plan to make the pretzel bites in advance for a party or event, you can prepare and freeze them beforehand. To serve, thaw the pretzels at room temperature for 30 minutes, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving with freshly prepared mustard cheese sauce.

How To Reheat Leftover Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

To reheat leftover pretzel bites, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzel bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method will help restore their original texture and flavor.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the pretzel bites in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until they are warm and soft. Be careful not to overheat them, as they may become tough or rubbery.
To reheat the mustard cheese sauce, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through and smooth. You can also reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
If the mustard cheese sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out by whisking in a small amount of milk or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese over the pretzel bites before reheating them in the oven. This will add a delicious, melty layer of cheese to the already tasty pretzel bites.

Interesting Fact About Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce

The pretzel bites with mustard cheese sauce recipe is a delightful snack that combines the savory flavors of pretzels with a rich and tangy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a tasty treat. The combination of the soft pretzel bites and the creamy cheese sauce is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy the delicious flavors of pretzel bites and mustard cheese sauce in this delightful recipe.

Is Making Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Cost-Effective?

This pretzel bites with mustard cheese sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of basic pantry staples and readily available items keeps the overall cost low. The versatility of the dish also adds value, as it can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pretzel bites with mustard cheese sauce recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe uses pizza dough, which is typically high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber.
The cheese sauce is made with butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese, which are all high in saturated fat and calories.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, both in the pretzel bites and the cheese sauce, which can contribute to high sodium intake.
The honey mustard adds some sweetness to the dish, but it also increases the overall sugar content.

While this recipe can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it should not be considered a regular part of a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat pizza dough or make your own dough using whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and reduce the refined carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of butter and cheese used in the sauce, or opt for lower-fat alternatives like skim milk and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
Experiment with using a mixture of cauliflower and potatoes as a base for the cheese sauce to reduce the overall calorie and fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
Decrease the amount of salt used in the recipe, and consider using herbs and spices to add flavor instead.
Serve the pretzel bites with a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers to increase the nutrient content of the meal and provide a balance to the richness of the cheese sauce.

Editor's Opinion on This Pretzel Bite Recipe

The pretzel bites with mustard cheese sauce recipe is a delightful combination of soft, chewy pretzel bites and a rich, tangy cheese sauce. The pretzel bites are perfectly seasoned with coarse salt and have a beautiful golden-brown color, while the cheese sauce is creamy and flavorful with a hint of tanginess from the honey mustard and apple cider vinegar. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for entertaining or as a delicious snack. The pretzel bites are addictive, and the cheese sauce takes them to the next level. It's a winning combination that will leave everyone craving for more.

Enhance Your Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Sweet dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon for the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings: Crispy chicken wings coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze for a spicy and sweet kick that will leave you craving more.

Caramelized Pineapple Skewers: Juicy pineapple chunks caramelized to perfection on the grill, creating a sweet and tangy treat that's perfect for snacking or dessert.

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Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This sweet and savory glazed salmon is the perfect combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, creating a flavorful and tender dish that's easy to make.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with creamy burrata cheese, arugula, and a balsamic glaze for a light and flavorful summer dish.

Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy and flavorful zucchini fries are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fries.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Pretzel Bites

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a mouthwatering dish featuring grilled salmon, served with a tangy lemon dill sauce and a side of roasted asparagus. The salmon is perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, while the lemon dill sauce adds a burst of fresh flavor to each bite. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto, made with Arborio rice, sautéed mushrooms, and a hint of truffle oil. The risotto is cooked to a perfect al dente texture, and the earthy flavors of the mushrooms shine through in every spoonful. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a touch of elegance. This dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious, creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh, juicy strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The pizza dough is carefully crafted to ensure a soft and chewy bite, while the baking soda bath creates the classic pretzel crust. The cheddar cheese is expertly blended with honey mustard and a touch of apple cider vinegar to produce a velvety, tangy cheese sauce. Trust the meticulous attention to detail in each step, from the dough preparation to the sauce's simmering. Embrace the savory aroma and indulge in the irresistible combination of warm pretzel bites and creamy mustard cheese sauce.

Have you tried making these Pretzel Bites with Mustard Cheese Sauce? Share your experience and any tweaks to the recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How can I make the pretzel bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the pretzel dough and shape it into balls ahead of time. After the dough balls have been simmered in the baking soda water, you can freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer. When ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash, sprinkle with salt, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Gruyere, Swiss, or even a combination of different cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.

How long will the pretzel bites stay fresh?

The pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Can I make the cheese sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through and smooth.

Can I make the pretzel bites gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free pretzel bites by using a gluten-free pizza dough and ensuring that all other ingredients, including the baking soda, are gluten-free. Additionally, you can make the cheese sauce using a gluten-free flour alternative.