Cheddar Garlic Pretzel Twists (Printer View)

Cheddar and garlic boost flavor in twisted, soft pretzel dough for a satisfying golden snack.

# Components:

→ Dough Ingredients

01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet active dry yeast
03 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1 cup warm water (110°F)
06 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Boiling Solution

09 - 10 cups water
10 - 2/3 cup baking soda

→ Topping

11 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
12 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
13 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

# Method:

01 - In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until evenly distributed.
02 - Add warm water and melted unsalted butter to the dry ingredients; stir until a rough dough forms.
03 - Fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and minced garlic, mixing until fully integrated.
04 - Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
06 - Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Roll each into a rope about 14 inches long, then twist into a pretzel shape or desired formation.
07 - In a wide pot, bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
08 - Carefully lower pretzel twists, one or two at a time, into boiling solution for 30 seconds. Remove using a slotted spatula and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
09 - Brush boiled pretzel twists with melted butter, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of garlic powder on top.
10 - Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 13–16 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbling.
11 - Transfer pretzel twists to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Made with basic pantry ingredients
  • Baked fresh for unbeatable flavor
  • Delivers gooey cheese and garlicky goodness in every bite
  • Perfect for sharing or serving at parties
02 -
  • Packed with protein and calcium from real cheese
  • Makes your kitchen smell irresistible while baking
  • A fantastic make-ahead candidate for parties
03 -
  • Letting dough relax for a few minutes before shaping helps with smooth ropes
  • Always use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor
  • If the garlic begins to burn while baking, tent with foil for the last few minutes