Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe

jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a delightful and spicy twist on the classic pretzel. Combining the soft, chewy texture of traditional pretzels with the zesty kick of jalapenos and the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, these pretzel twists are perfect for snack time, parties, or any time you crave a deliciously savory treat.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients:

• 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2-3 jalapenos, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60g) baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse salt for sprinkling

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter (for brushing)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Preparation

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the Pretzel Twists:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-15 inches long.
4. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape or a simple twist, as you prefer.

Adding the Jalapeno and Cheddar:

1. Gently press the chopped jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese into the dough ropes before twisting them.
2. Ensure the jalapenos and cheese are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.

Baking Instructions

Boiling the Pretzels:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
2. Carefully drop each pretzel twist into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
3. Place the boiled pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Baking the Pretzel Twists:

1. Brush each pretzel twist with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden crust.
2. Sprinkle coarse salt over the pretzel twists.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Finishing Touches

Adding Extra Cheddar:

1. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pretzel twists during the last 2 minutes of baking.

Brushing with Butter:

1. Brush the hot pretzel twists with melted butter immediately after baking for a rich and indulgent flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Dips:

• Serve with a side of spicy mustard, cheese sauce, or ranch dressing for dipping.

Ideal Occasions for Serving:

• These pretzel twists are perfect for game day snacks, party appetizers, or a fun family movie night treat.

Storage Tips

Storing Leftovers:

1. Store leftover pretzel twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating Instructions:

1. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Variations

Different Cheeses to Try:

• Try using pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Spicy Options:

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough for extra heat.

Tips for Success

Ensuring Perfect Dough Consistency:

1. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Achieving the Right Twist:

1. Make sure the dough ropes are even in thickness to ensure even baking.

FAQs

1. Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.
2. How Can I Make It Less Spicy?
   • Remove the seeds from the jalapenos or use fewer jalapenos to reduce the spice level.
3. What Can I Substitute for Cheddar?
   • Any melting cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby can be used as a substitute.
4. Can I Freeze the Pretzel Twists?
   • Yes, freeze the baked pretzel twists in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
5. How Do I Make It Vegan?
   • Use a plant-based cheese and skip the egg wash, using a water or oil wash instead. Ensure the butter used for brushing is vegan.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a delicious and fun snack that combines the soft, chewy texture of pretzels with the spicy kick of jalapenos and the rich flavor of cheddar cheese. They are perfect for any occasion, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the savory goodness of homemade pretzel twists!

Yield: 12

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe

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Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a delightful and spicy twist on the classic pretzel. Combining the soft, chewy texture of traditional pretzels with the zesty kick of jalapenos and the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, these pretzel twists are perfect for snack time, parties, or any time you crave a deliciously savory treat.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

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

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the water, yeast and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until mixture is frothy. Stir in the salt.

• Add 3 cups of the flour to the mixer and stir to combine. Mix in the jalapenos and cheese. Add the remaining flour, as needed, a little bit at a time, until the dough comes together in a ball and is slightly tacky, but not sticky. You may not use all the flour.

• Fill a large bowl with the hot water. Stir in the baking soda until dissolved. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash; set aside.

• On a lightly floured countertop, divide the dough into four equal sections. Roll each section into a log and cut the log into three pieces. Repeat with the remaining dough. You should have 12 equal pieces of dough.

• Roll each segment of dough into a rope 18-24 inches long. Fold the rope in half, then twists the two segments of rope together. Pinch the ends together and tuck underneath. Place pretzel twist on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining dough.

• Transfer each pretzel twist into the hot water mixture for about 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pretzels back to the baking sheet. Re-twist pretzels as needed. Brush each pretzel with the egg wash, then sprinkle with coarse salt.

• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until pretzels are golden brown. Let cool slightly, then brush with melted butter.