These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists are soft, savory, and packed with flavor! With a kick of jalapeño and melty cheddar in each bite, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or just a delicious snack to share. Homemade pretzels may sound intimidating, but these twists are straightforward and fun to make!
Why You’ll Love These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists
- Flavorful & Cheesy: The sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeño add tons of flavor.
- Soft & Chewy: Each twist is perfectly tender inside with a light golden crust.
- Fun to Make: Twisting the dough is a fun activity that’s easy for everyone to join in on!
Ingredients for Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for the boiling water bath)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Pot for the baking soda water bath
- Pastry brush (for egg wash)
How to Make Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists
- Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough
- Add the salt and flour gradually to the yeast mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Water Bath
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda.
- Shape the Pretzel Twists
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 10-12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12 inches in length.
- Twist each rope into a loose spiral shape, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Boil the Twists
- Working in batches, drop each twist into the boiling baking soda water for about 20 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon. This step gives the pretzels their chewy texture and golden brown color.
- Add the Finishing Touches
- Place each boiled twist back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each one with beaten egg, then sprinkle with coarse salt for extra flavor and crunch.
- Bake
- Bake the pretzel twists for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cheese is bubbling and slightly crisp on top.
Serving Suggestions
These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists are delicious on their own or served with your favorite dips like queso, ranch, or a spicy mustard!
Tips for the Best Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists
- Use Fresh Jalapeños: For the best flavor and texture, go with fresh jalapeños instead of jarred.
- Keep an Eye on the Water Bath: Don’t leave the pretzels in the baking soda water for too long—20 seconds is just right to achieve a chewy exterior without an overly strong taste.
- Customize Your Cheese: Sharp cheddar is fantastic, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to bring back their softness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! Make the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
Q2: Can I freeze the pretzel twists?
A: Absolutely. Once baked, let the pretzels cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
Q3: How spicy are these pretzel twists?
A: The spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or fewer jalapeños. Removing the seeds also reduces the heat level.
These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a warm, cheesy, and slightly spicy treat that’s sure to impress. They’re perfect for sharing, but don’t be surprised if they disappear fast!
