Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsGrand Trunk PubPretzel Bites & Pub Cheese (v) Recipe

Pretzel Bites & Pub Cheese (v) Recipe

Inspired by Grand Trunk Pub
Time1h
Serves4

Soft pretzel bites served with a traditional Michigan style horseradish pub cheese

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Ingredients

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Pretzel Bites

Method

Pretzel Bites

  1. 1

    Prepare Yeast Mixture

    In a small bowl, combine warm water, brown sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Make the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

  3. 3

    First Rise

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

  4. 4

    Shape the Pretzel Bites

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into bite-sized pieces.

  5. 5

    Prepare Baking Soda Bath

    In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  6. 6

    Bake the Pretzel Bites

    Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the pretzel bites and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Pub Cheese

  1. 7

    Prepare Cheese Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.

  2. 8

    Mix Ingredients

    Using a hand mixer or food processor, blend the ingredients until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

  3. 9

    Add Chives

    If using, fold in the chopped chives for added flavor and garnish.

  4. 10

    Serve

    Transfer the pub cheese to a serving bowl and serve with the warm pretzel bites.

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