Save A festive and shareable appetizer featuring soft pretzel bites baked in a wreath shape, perfect for dipping into a creamy, cheesy spinach dip at the center.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt
- Baking Soda Bath: 1/2 cup (120 g) baking soda, 8 cups (2 L) water
- Topping: 1 egg, beaten, 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
- Spinach Cheese Dip: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter and salt. Add flour gradually, mixing to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Wreath:
- Punch down dough and divide into 32 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in two concentric circles on the baking sheet to form a wreath shape, leaving space in the center for the dip.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, drop dough balls into the bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Brush pretzel balls:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake the wreath:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Spinach Cheese Dip:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Transfer dip:
- Transfer dip to a small ovenproof bowl. Place in the center of the wreath on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 12 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove wreath and dip from oven. Serve warm, letting guests pull off pretzel bites and dip them.
Save Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Stand mixer (optional), Measuring cups and spoons, Large pot, Slotted spoon, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Small ovenproof bowl, Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs. May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities. Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330 Total Fat: 14 g Carbohydrates: 40 g Protein: 10 g
Save This pretzel wreath dip ring is sure to impress at any gathering and pairs wonderfully with your favorite beverages.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get a glossy crust on the pretzels?
Boil the pretzel dough balls briefly in a baking soda bath before baking. This alkaline soak creates a shiny, brown crust and distinctive flavor.
- → Can I make the dip ahead of time?
Yes, the spinach cheese dip can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving to maintain freshness and warmth.
- → What is the purpose of the baking soda bath?
The baking soda bath helps develop the pretzels' classic chewy texture and dark golden color by altering the dough’s surface during baking.
- → Can I add other ingredients to the dip?
Absolutely, feel free to add chopped artichokes, cayenne pepper, or nutmeg to customize the dip’s flavor.
- → What’s the best way to serve the wreath dip ring?
Serve warm so guests can pull off individual pretzel bites and dip them directly into the creamy spinach center.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish contains no meat and uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheese, spinach, and pretzel dough.