Pin this A festive and shareable appetizer featuring soft pretzel bites baked in a wreath shape, perfect for dipping into a creamy, cheesy spinach dip at the center.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in our home, bringing everyone together around the table to enjoy the warm pretzels and rich dip.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt
- Baking Soda Bath: 1/2 cup (120 g) baking soda, 8 cups (2 L) water
- Topping: 1 egg beaten, 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
- Spinach Cheese Dip: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl combine warm water sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter and salt. Add flour gradually mixing to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Wreath:
- Punch down dough and divide into 32 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in two concentric circles on the baking sheet to form a wreath shape leaving space in the center for the dip.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
- In a large pot bring water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches drop dough balls into the bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Apply Topping:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Spinach Cheese Dip:
- In a medium bowl combine cream cheese sour cream mozzarella Parmesan spinach garlic salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Bake Dip:
- Transfer dip to a small ovenproof bowl. Place in the center of the wreath on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 12 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove wreath and dip from oven. Serve warm letting guests pull off pretzel bites and dip them.
Pin this Our family loves gathering around this appetizer especially during the holidays, sharing stories while enjoying warm pretzel bites dipped in creamy spinach cheese.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Measuring cups and spoons Large pot Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Small ovenproof bowl Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) milk eggs May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330 Total Fat: 14 g Carbohydrates: 40 g Protein: 10 g
Pin this This pretzel wreath dip ring is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering Enjoy making and sharing it with loved ones
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the pretzel's classic chewy texture?
Boiling the dough pieces briefly in a baking soda solution before baking creates the traditional pretzel crust and chewy texture.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead and refrigerated to allow slow rising, which can enhance flavor and convenience.
- → What can I use to add extra flavor to the dip?
Incorporating spices like cayenne or nutmeg, or mixing in chopped artichokes, can elevate the dip's flavor profile.
- → How do I store leftovers to maintain freshness?
Store leftover pretzel bites and dip separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Is the dip suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, the dip contains dairy but no meat, fitting within a vegetarian dietary preference.