Description
Homemade jalapeño cheddar pretzel twists deliver spicy, cheesy goodness with perfect golden-brown crusts. Crisp exterior and zesty filling make these pretzels an irresistible snack you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 cups flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1.25 cups (296 ml) warm water
- 4 cups (946 ml) very hot water
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) melted butter
- 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) water
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Yeast Activation: Blend warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a stand mixer, allowing the mixture to transform into a foamy, aromatic blend over 5-10 minutes.
- Dough Preparation: Integrate salt and flour gradually, folding in finely chopped jalapeño peppers and shredded cheddar cheese until the dough reaches a smooth, tacky texture.
- Pretzel Shaping: Segment the dough into four portions, rolling each into logs, then cutting into three pieces. Elongate each piece into a rope, fold in half, and create signature twists.
- Baking Soda Treatment: Immerse each pretzel in a hot baking soda solution for 30 seconds, ensuring complete coverage to enhance traditional pretzel characteristics.
- Egg Wash and Seasoning: Transfer pretzels to a parchment-lined baking sheet, generously brush with whisked egg, and sprinkle with coarse sea salt for a perfect flavor profile.
- Baking and Finishing: Roast in a 450°F oven for 8-10 minutes until achieving a golden-brown exterior. After removing, briefly cool, then enhance with a luxurious brush of melted unsalted butter for an irresistible shine and rich taste.
Notes
- Yeast Activation Tip: Ensure water temperature is precisely 110°F to activate yeast without killing it, creating a perfect rise.
- Dough Consistency Check: Aim for a tacky texture, not sticky or dry, which guarantees soft and chewy pretzel twists.
- Baking Soda Bath Trick: Fully submerge pretzels for exactly 30 seconds to achieve that signature golden-brown, glossy pretzel exterior.
- Butter Finish Boost: Brushing warm pretzels with melted butter adds a rich, luxurious flavor and creates an irresistible sheen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg