Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMerle's Whiskey KitchenPretzels & Queso Recipe

Pretzels & Queso Recipe

Time1h
Serves3

3 warm soft pretzels with homemade queso

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Ingredients

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Pretzel Dough

Method

Pretzel Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. 2

    Make the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.

  3. 3

    Knead the Dough

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

  4. 4

    Shape the Pretzels

    Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape it into a pretzel.

  5. 5

    Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

    In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Once boiling, carefully drop each pretzel into the water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a greased baking sheet.

  6. 6

    Egg Wash and Bake

    Whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush it over each pretzel. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Queso Preparation

  1. 7

    Melt the Cheeses

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Velveeta cheese and cream cheese. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth.

  2. 8

    Add Remaining Ingredients

    Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, milk, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.

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