Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Are you in the mood for something savory, cheesy, and with just the right amount of kick? If yes, then you’re in for a treat with these Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists. This recipe is a delightful spin on the classic pretzel, infusing the warm, soft dough with spicy jalapenos and melty cheddar cheese for an irresistible combination. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack to share with friends, a unique appetizer for your next party, or just a fun baking project, these pretzel twists have got you covered. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own batch of these flavorful twists.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the baking process, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3-4 cups flour
• 2 medium jalapenos, seeded and finely minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups very hot water
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 egg + 2 tablespoons water
• Coarse salt for sprinkling
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Now, let’s get baking!

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your pretzel twists don’t stick.
2. Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which helps your pretzels rise.
3. Mix the Dough: Add half a teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Then, add 3 cups of flour to the bowl and start mixing. Once the initial flour is incorporated, add in the minced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to add the remaining flour gradually until the dough forms a slightly tacky ball. You might not need all the flour, so add it slowly to achieve the perfect texture.
4. Prepare the Baking Soda Water: Dissolve the baking soda in 4 cups of very hot water in a large bowl. This baking soda bath will give the pretzels their classic texture and flavor.
5. Shape the Pretzels: Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a long log, then cut each log into three pieces, yielding a total of 12 pieces. Take each piece and roll it into an 18-24 inch rope. Fold each rope in half and twist to form the pretzel shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Dip each pretzel twist in the hot baking soda solution for 30 seconds, then return to the baking sheet. Brush each twist with the egg wash (egg beaten with 2 tablespoons of water) and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Finishing Touches: After baking, let the pretzels cool slightly before brushing them with melted butter for that extra glossy finish and rich flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twist is approximately 220 kcal, making it a satisfying snack that won’t weigh you down. This recipe yields 12 twists, perfect for sharing.

Conclusion

These Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists combine the soft, chewy texture of traditional pretzels with the bold flavors of jalapenos and cheddar cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of 10 minutes, you can have these delicious twists ready in no time. So why wait? Get your ingredients ready, and let’s start baking!

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