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.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family, bringing everyone together around the table.
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 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.
- Apply Topping:
- 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.
- Bake the 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 This dish always brings smiles during family gatherings especially around the holidays.
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 per serving
Save This pretzel wreath dip ring is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the pretzel dough rises properly?
Use warm water around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast and let the dough rise covered in a warm spot until doubled, typically 45 minutes.
- → What is the purpose of the baking soda bath?
Dipping the dough balls in a boiling baking soda bath gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy crust and deep golden color after baking.
- → Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the wreath and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for optimal texture.
- → What variations can be added to the spinach cheese dip?
Try adding chopped artichokes, a pinch of cayenne, or nutmeg to enrich the flavor and add depth to the creamy dip.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store wrapped in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to restore softness before serving.