Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Introduction

These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists have quickly become a family favorite in our household. The combination of gooey cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for game day, movie nights, or even a casual afternoon snack. The first time I made these, the aroma wafting through the house was irresistible, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. Each twist is delightfully chewy, with just the right amount of spice, making them a hit with both adults and kids alike. It’s hard to eat just one!

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3-4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• For the Baking Soda Bath:
• 4 cups very hot water
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• For the Egg Wash:
• 1 egg + 2 tablespoons water
• For Topping:
• Coarse salt, for sprinkling
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

1. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Stir in the salt, then add 3 cups of flour to the mixer and combine until incorporated.
3. Add the minced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until evenly distributed.
4. Gradually add remaining flour as needed until the dough forms a soft, slightly tacky ball. You may not need all the flour.

Prepare Baking Soda Mixture and Egg Wash

1. In a large bowl, combine the hot water and baking soda, stirring until dissolved.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and 2 tablespoons of water to create an egg wash; set aside.

Divide and Shape the Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into four equal sections.
2. Roll each section into a log and cut each log into three pieces, resulting in 12 equal pieces of dough.
3. Roll each dough segment into a rope about 18-24 inches long.
4. Fold the rope in half, twist the two segments together, and pinch the ends to seal, tucking them underneath. Place each pretzel twist on the prepared baking sheet.

Dip and Prepare for Baking

1. Dip each pretzel twist in the baking soda water mixture for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to return them to the baking sheet. Re-twist as needed.
2. Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake

Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the pretzels are golden brown. Allow to cool slightly, then brush with melted butter before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 pretzel twists
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as:
• Mustard
• Cheese sauce
• Spicy ranch dressing
• Pair with drinks like:
• Beer
• Soda
• Lemonade
• Great for parties, game day, or as a fun family snack!

Additional Tips

1. Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
2. Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Adjust flour as needed.
3. Jalapeño Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference. You can also use milder peppers for a less spicy version.
4. Cheese Choice: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Variations: Try adding different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate herbs like chives or oregano into the dough for added flavor.
• Sweet Version: For a sweeter twist, omit the jalapeños and cheese, and fill with cinnamon sugar and raisins instead.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these pretzel twists with:
• Homemade salsa
• Guacamole
• BBQ sauce
• They also pair well with a variety of soups and salads.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pretzel twists. After shaping, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw and proceed with the baking instructions.
• Storage: Store leftover baked pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

• Yes, but the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the liquid.

1. What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

• You can substitute with instant yeast; just skip the activation step.

1. Can I make these pretzel twists ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the twists a day in advance, then refrigerate them overnight.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftover pretzel twists?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for a crisp texture.

1. Are these pretzels vegetarian?

• Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

1. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

• The dough should be about double in size and feel light and airy.

1. Can I use other fillings besides cheese and jalapeños?

• Absolutely! Try other fillings like pepperoni, spinach, or even chocolate for a dessert version.

1. What if I want to make mini pretzel bites instead?

• Simply shape smaller pieces of dough into bites and adjust baking time to about 5-7 minutes.

1. How spicy are these pretzel twists?

• They have a mild to moderate heat, depending on the jalapeño used. Feel free to reduce or eliminate the jalapeños for a milder version.

1. What can I use if I don’t have baking soda?
   • You could use a baking powder solution, but it won’t provide the same texture or flavor.

Conclusion

These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists are not just a snack; they’re an experience that brings together flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, they’re sure to impress. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, spicy interior, these pretzels are a delightful treat that you’ll want to make again and again. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy making this delicious recipe—your taste buds will thank you!

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