Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe

Introduction

These Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists combine a soft, chewy texture with spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, they bring a delightful twist to classic pretzels that’s sure to please any crowd.

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 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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until frothy, then stir in the salt.
3. Step 3: Add 3 cups of flour to the mixer and combine. Mix in minced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese. Gradually add remaining flour as needed until the dough forms a slightly tacky, not sticky ball. You may not need all the flour.
4. Step 4: Fill a large bowl with very hot water and dissolve the baking soda in it. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to make an egg wash and set aside.
5. Step 5: On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a log and cut each log into three pieces, making 12 pieces total.
6. Step 6: Roll each dough piece into a rope about 18-24 inches long. Fold each rope in half and twist the two segments together. Pinch and tuck the ends underneath. Place each twist on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Step 7: Dip each pretzel twist into the hot baking soda water for about 30 seconds, then return to the baking sheet. Re-shape twists if needed. Brush each with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
8. Step 8: Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly, then brush with melted butter before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of jalapenos or substitute with sweet bell peppers.
• Try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the dough for extra seasoning.
• Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique taste.

Storage

Store leftover pretzel twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350-degree oven for 5-7 minutes to regain softness and freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, which may take about 8-10 minutes.

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 122 reviews

These Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are soft, cheesy pretzels with a spicy kick from fresh jalapenos. Perfectly golden and buttery, they’re an irresistible snack or appetizer that combines the classic flavor of cheddar with the warmth of jalapenos for a delightful twist on traditional pretzels.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 pretzel twists 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 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 jalapenos, seeded and finely minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Baking and Finishing

• 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

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Activate Yeast: In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active. Then stir in the salt.
3. Mix Dough and Add Flavors: Add 3 cups of flour to the mixer and combine well. Mix in the finely minced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese evenly. Gradually add the remaining flour a little at a time until the dough forms a slightly tacky but not sticky ball. You may not need all the flour.
4. Prepare Baking Soda Bath and Egg Wash: Fill a large bowl with the very hot water and stir in the baking soda until it dissolves. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 2 tablespoons of water to create the egg wash. Set both aside.
5. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour a countertop and divide the dough into four equal sections. Roll each section into logs, then cut each log into three equal pieces, resulting in 12 pieces total.
6. Form Pretzel Twists: Roll each piece of dough into a rope about 18-24 inches long. Fold the rope in half and twist the two segments together. Pinch the ends and tuck them underneath to form the pretzel twists. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Boil Pretzels: Carefully dip each pretzel twist into the hot baking soda water mixture for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them back to the baking sheet. Re-twist if necessary to maintain shape.
8. Apply Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel with the egg wash to give a shiny finish and sprinkle generously with coarse salt for flavor and crunch.
9. Bake and Finish: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before brushing with melted butter for a rich and glossy finish.

Notes

• Use freshly minced jalapenos for the best flavor and controlled heat level.
• If the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually, but avoid adding too much to keep pretzels soft.
• The baking soda bath is crucial for achieving the classic pretzel crust and color.
• Brush with melted butter immediately after baking to add richness and keep pretzels moist.
• Can be served warm or at room temperature and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Keywords: jalapeno pretzels, cheddar pretzels, homemade pretzels, spicy pretzel twists, cheesy pretzels, snack recipes