Save to Pinterest Crunchy, golden-baked pretzel bites filled with creamy mac and cheese and a spicy kick of jalapeño are the perfect party snack or appetizer for any gathering.
I first brought these bites to a game night with friends, and they quickly disappeared. The mix of gooey cheese and soft pretzel wrapped up in one bite was a crowd-pleaser—the jalapeño gave just the right hint of heat without overwhelming anyone.
Ingredients
- Mac and Cheese Filling: 1 cup (100 g) elbow macaroni, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 2 jalapeños finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- Pretzel Dough: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon instant yeast, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water
- Baking Soda Bath: 4 cups (950 ml) water, 1/4 cup (35 g) baking soda
- Topping: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted, coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make cheese sauce:
- Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened (2 to 3 minutes).
- Finish filling:
- Add cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat, fold in cooked macaroni and diced jalapeños. Cool completely, then refrigerate for 20 minutes until firm.
- Mix pretzel dough:
- Combine flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and warm water in a bowl. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Prep baking sheet and soda bath:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Assemble bites:
- Divide pretzel dough into 24 pieces, flatten each piece, and place a heaping teaspoon of chilled mac and cheese filling in the center. Pinch edges to seal and roll into a ball.
- Bake bites:
- Drop each ball into the boiling baking soda bath for 20 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet. Brush each bite with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest Whenever my family gets together for football Sundays, these pretzel bites are the first thing gone. My kids love the cheesy center and my spouse enjoys how easy they are to grab by the handful.
Required Tools
Saucepan, mixing bowls, baking sheet, slotted spoon, pastry brush.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). If using cheese containing egg, potentially contains eggs. Always check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 95, Total Fat: 3.5 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 3 g
Save to Pinterest Crispy, cheesy, and just a little spicy, these bites will make any gathering extra memorable. Try different cheeses for your own twist!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cheese works best for the filling?
Sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack also work for variety.
- → How spicy are the jalapeño pretzel bites?
They have a mild kick from deseeded jalapeños. Leave seeds in or use more jalapeños for stronger heat.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, baked pretzel bites freeze well. Reheat in the oven for the best texture and flavor.
- → Do I need special equipment?
You only need basic kitchen tools—saucepan, mixing bowls, baking sheet, slotted spoon, and a pastry brush.
- → How do I keep the bites from opening while baking?
Pinch the dough edges tightly to seal before boiling in the baking soda bath for proper closure.
- → Can these bites be made vegetarian?
Yes, the listed ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Always verify cheese ingredients for hidden animal derivatives.