Chili Cheese Stuffed Pretzel Bites

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup prepared chili (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Steps

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2 Add 3 cups of flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead in enough remaining flour to make a smooth dough.
3. 3 Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4 Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5 Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a circle, add a teaspoon of chili and a tablespoon of cheese in the center, then fold the dough over to enclose the filling. Seal the edges and roll into a ball.
6. 6 Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, dissolve baking soda in 1 cup of water. Brush each ball with the baking soda solution, then brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
7. 7 Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve immediately.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls

Variations

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy twist.

Substitutions

• Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

Pairings

• Perfect with a cold beer or a crisp salad on the side.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, mix in some garlic powder or onion flakes with the chili.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the cheese and chili mixture.

Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Freezing: Freeze unbaked bites on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with beer cheese sauce or a tangy ranch dip for extra indulgence.

FAQ