Best Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe
These Best Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are soft, chewy, and packed with the bold flavors of spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly golden and brushed with melted butter for extra richness, these homemade pretzels are a delicious twist on a classic snack that you can easily bake at home.
- Prep Time: 11 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pretzel twists (serves 4) 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 medium jalapenos, seeded and minced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
For the Water Bath:
- 4 cups very hot water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
For Finishing:
- 1 large egg plus 2 tbsp water
- Coarse salt, for topping
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Make the Pretzel Dough: In a stand mixer bowl with a dough hook, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Stir in salt, then add 3 cups of flour, mixing until combined. Fold in minced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese. Add more flour gradually until a slightly tacky but non-sticky dough forms.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath and Egg Wash: In a large bowl, dissolve baking soda in very hot water to create an alkaline bath that enhances pretzel flavor and color. In a separate bowl, whisk egg with water for egg wash.
- Shape the Pretzel Dough: On a floured surface, divide dough into four equal parts. Roll each into logs and cut each log into three for 12 pieces total. Roll each piece into 18-24 inch ropes, fold in half, twist together, and pinch ends underneath to form pretzel twists. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake Soda Bath and Egg Wash: Dip each pretzel twist into the hot baking soda bath for about 30 seconds, remove with a slotted spoon, re-twist if needed, then place back on baking sheet. Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt for flavor and crunch.
- Bake and Finish: Bake pretzels in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Cool for a few minutes, then brush with melted butter to add sheen and richness.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of flour to get the right dough consistency; it should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Be careful with the hot baking soda bath to avoid burns.
- Adding coarse salt after the egg wash enhances texture and flavor.
- Letting the pretzels cool briefly before applying butter helps the butter absorb better.
- Jalapenos can be adjusted for spice preference; remove seeds for less heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for freshness.
Keywords: Jalapeno cheddar pretzel, pretzel twists, homemade pretzels, cheesy pretzels, spicy snacks, baked pretzels
