Save A festive and shareable appetizer featuring soft pretzel bites baked in a wreath shape, perfect for dipping into a creamy, cheesy spinach dip at the center.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, bringing everyone together around the table for a fun and interactive snack.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110℉/43℃), 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt
- Baking Soda Bath: 1/2 cup (120 g) baking soda, 8 cups (2 L) water
- Topping: 1 egg beaten, 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
- Spinach Cheese Dip: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter and salt. Add flour gradually, mixing to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Wreath:
- Punch down dough and divide into 32 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in two concentric circles on the baking sheet to form a wreath shape, leaving space in the center for the dip.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, drop dough balls into the bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Apply Topping:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake the Wreath:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Spinach Cheese Dip:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Bake Dip:
- Transfer dip to a small ovenproof bowl. Place in the center of the wreath on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 12 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove wreath and dip from oven. Serve warm, letting guests pull off pretzel bites and dip them.
Save This recipe always brings joy to our family gatherings and makes snacking a shared experience.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Stand mixer (optional), Measuring cups and spoons, Large pot, Slotted spoon, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Small ovenproof bowl, Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs. May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities. Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 10 g (per serving)
Save Enjoy this delightful appetizer warm and fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a soft yet crispy pretzel crust?
Soaking the dough balls briefly in a baking soda bath before baking gives the pretzels their signature crust and slightly chewy texture.
- → Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the wreath and refrigerate it unbaked, then bake shortly before serving for best freshness.
- → What can I add to the spinach dip for extra flavor?
A pinch of cayenne or nutmeg can enhance the dip’s depth and warmth without overpowering the spinach and cheese balance.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, all ingredients in the dough and dip are vegetarian-friendly, relying on dairy and plant-based seasonings.
- → How long should the pretzel dough rise for best results?
Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes, ensures a light, airy texture inside the pretzel bites.