Pretzels Recipe

Activate Yeast

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt.

Combine Ingredients

Once the yeast is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape Pretzels

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape it into a pretzel.

Prepare Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil each pretzel in the soda solution for about 30 seconds.

Bake Pretzels

Place the boiled pretzels on the prepared baking sheet, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, diced tomatoes with green chilies, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Cook Queso

Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth.

Serve

Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and serve warm with the freshly baked pretzels.