# What You'll Need:
→ Pretzel Dough
01 - 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup warm water (110°F)
03 - 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
04 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
05 - 1 tsp salt
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
→ Boiling & Topping
07 - 1/2 cup baking soda
08 - 8 cups water
09 - 1 egg, beaten
10 - Coarse sea salt
→ Cheese Dip
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
13 - 1 cup whole milk
14 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
15 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
16 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
17 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
18 - Salt and pepper
# Directions:
01 - Dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
02 - Stir in melted butter and salt. Add flour gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
04 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
05 - In a large pot, bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil.
06 - Turn risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a rope about 18 inches long. Cut ropes into 1-inch pieces.
07 - Working in batches, drop dough pieces into the boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheet.
08 - Brush each piece with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
09 - Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
10 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
11 - Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until slightly thickened, 2-3 minutes.
12 - Add cheeses, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
13 - Serve pretzel bites warm with cheese dip.
