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Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists

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Chewy soft pretzel twists packed with minced jalapeño and sharp cheddar, dipped in a baking-soda bath for classic pretzel flavor and baked golden in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 34 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 medium fresh jalapeños, seeded & finely minced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 cups very hot water
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg + 2 tablespoons water (egg wash)
  • Coarse salt, for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450 °F (230 °C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine warm water, yeast and sugar; let stand 5–10 minutes until frothy, then stir in salt.
  3. Add 3 cups of the flour and mix; add minced jalapeños and cheddar, then knead in additional flour as needed (up to 1 cup) until dough forms a slightly tacky ball.
  4. In a separate bowl, dissolve baking soda in very hot water to create the soda bath. In a small bowl, whisk egg with 2 tablespoons water for egg wash.
  5. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces; roll each into a log and cut into thirds to make 12 pieces total.
  6. Roll each piece into an 18–24 in (45–60 cm) rope, fold in half, then twist the two strands together; pinch ends and tuck under.
  7. Dip each twist into the soda bath for about 30 seconds; return to baking sheet, retwisting if necessary.
  8. Brush twists with egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
  9. Bake 8–10 minutes until deep golden brown. While warm, brush with melted butter and serve.

Notes

  • Swap sharp cheddar for pepper-jack to amp up the heat.
  • Form traditional pretzel shapes if preferred—bake time is the same.
  • Freeze baked twists up to 3 months; reheat at 350 °F for 5–7 minutes.
  • Skip the jalapeños for a kid-friendly cheesy pretzel.

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