Pretzel & Beer Cheese Recipe

Make the Pretzel Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

Shape the Pretzels

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). After the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then shape into a pretzel. Place the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling solution for about 30 seconds, then remove and place back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake the Pretzels

Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter.

Make the Beer Cheese Dip

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pimento cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, beer, cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Serve

Serve the warm pretzels alongside the beer cheese dip.