Pin 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 became a holiday staple in my home, bringing everyone together around the appetizer platter.
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 Wreath:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare 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 in Center:
- 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 recipe has become a fun tradition during gatherings when family and friends come together to share and enjoy.
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 per serving.
Pin Enjoy this festive appetizer that brings delicious flavors and fun to your table.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve the classic pretzel crust?
Boil the dough pieces briefly in a baking soda bath before baking. This step creates the distinctive chewy crust and deep brown color.
- → What cheeses enhance the spinach dip's flavor?
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses blend with cream cheese and sour cream, adding creaminess and a sharp, savory note.
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
Yes, assemble the wreath and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- → How do I keep the spinach dip creamy and smooth?
Combine softened cream cheese and sour cream with freshly chopped spinach and garlic, mixing well to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- → Are there any recommended flavor variations?
Adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the dip introduces subtle warmth and complexity. Chopped artichokes also make a tasty addition.