Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsIron Rail BrewingPretzels & Beer Cheese Recipe

Pretzels & Beer Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Iron Rail Brewing
Time2h
Serves8

Soft pretzel twists lightly salted and served with IRB Beer cheese sauce

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Ingredients

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Pretzel Dough

Method

Pretzel Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Make Dough

    In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.

  3. 3

    Knead Dough

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

  4. 4

    Let Dough Rise

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

Shaping and Boiling Pretzels

  1. 5

    Shape Pretzels

    Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape.

  2. 6

    Boil Pretzels

    In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully add the pretzels, one at a time, and boil for about 30 seconds each. Remove with a slotted spoon.

  3. 7

    Bake Pretzels

    Place boiled pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Beer Cheese Sauce Preparation

  1. 8

    Make Roux

    In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.

  2. 9

    Add Liquid

    Gradually whisk in the milk and beer, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

  3. 10

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

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