# What You'll Need:
→ Pretzel Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup warm water (110°F)
03 - 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
04 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
05 - 1 tsp salt
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
→ Boiling & Topping
07 - 1/2 cup baking soda
08 - 8 cups water
09 - 1 egg, beaten
10 - Coarse sea salt
→ Cheese Dip
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
13 - 1 cup whole milk
14 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
15 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
16 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
17 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
18 - Salt and pepper to taste
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water in a large bowl. Let stand until foamy, approximately 5 minutes.
02 - Stir melted butter and salt into yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough on floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm area for 1 hour until doubled.
04 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to boil in large pot.
05 - Divide risen dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into 18-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
06 - Working in batches, drop dough pieces into boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheet.
07 - Brush each piece with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
08 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
09 - Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create roux.
10 - Gradually whisk in milk, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
11 - Add shredded cheeses, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy.
12 - Serve warm pretzel bites immediately with cheese dip on the side.
