Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Who doesn’t love a warm, soft pretzel fresh from the oven? Add a kick of jalapeño and the gooey goodness of cheddar cheese, and you’ve got yourself a snack that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Today, I’ll walk you through how to make Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists. This recipe combines the classic pretzel with bold flavors, making it a perfect choice for spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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 jalapeños, seeded and finely minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups very hot water
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 egg + 2 tablespoons water (for egg wash)
• Coarse salt for sprinkling
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 1 1/4 cups of warm water, 2 1/2 teaspoons of yeast, and a tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture stand for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Step 2: Mix in the Flour and Fillings

Start with 3 cups of flour, mixing until combined. Add the finely minced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese into the dough. Gradually incorporate more flour as needed until the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough into four equal sections. Roll each section into a log and cut each log into three pieces. Take each piece and roll it into an 18-24 inch rope. Fold each rope in half and twist several times to form the classic pretzel shape.

Step 4: Baking Soda Bath

Dissolve 1/4 cup of baking soda in 4 cups of very hot water. Dip each pretzel in this baking soda bath for 30 seconds, then arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and two tablespoons of water to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture over each pretzel and sprinkle them with coarse salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Final Touch

Once the pretzels are slightly cooled, brush them with melted butter for a rich, flavorful finish.

Nutritional Information

Each serving is approximately 300 calories, making these pretzels a hearty snack. This recipe makes 12 pretzels, perfect for sharing.

Conclusion

These Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists are not only a delightful treat but also a conversation starter. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your snack time, these pretzels combine the comforting texture and taste of traditional soft pretzels with the zesty punch of jalapeño and the creamy melt of cheddar. Happy baking!