Gooey Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites are the ultimate cheesy snack, featuring sharp cheddar cheese encased in biscuit dough, boiled, and baked to a golden brown perfection. Sprinkled with salt, these Pretzel Bites are a must-try for any cheese enthusiast looking for a satisfying homemade treat. Serve these delightful appetizers at your next party or game day. Additionally, I’ll provide instructions on how to make them in an air fryer!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Dough:
Use a tube of buttermilk biscuit dough for convenience. For a homemade touch, try my homemade buttermilk biscuits recipe. Store-bought or homemade pizza dough also works well.
Cheese:
Cut an 8-ounce (225g) block of sharp cheddar cheese into 16 cubes. Mozzarella, gouda, or brie can be used for different flavors. Experiment with various cheeses to find your favorite!
Baking Soda:
The baking soda is essential for creating the classic soft pretzel taste and texture.
Can I Make Pretzel Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the cheese-stuffed dough balls in advance, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let them come to room temperature before boiling and baking.
Air Fryer Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites
Make delicious pretzel bites in your air fryer for a crispy, golden finish. Preheat the air fryer to 330°F (165°C). Place the pretzel bites in the basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with garlic butter before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Storing & Freezing Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites
To store, keep the pretzel bites in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Ingredients
- 1 can (8-count) buttermilk biscuits, not flaky
- 1 block (8 ounces / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 16 cubes
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) water
- ¼ cup (55g) baking soda
- 1 large egg, room temperature, beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 12-inch (30cm) oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray.
- Remove the biscuits from the can and place them on a clean work surface. Cut each biscuit in half and shape each half into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each biscuit to about ⅛-inch (0.3cm) thickness.
- Top each flattened biscuit with 1 cube of cheddar cheese.
- Pinch the dough tightly around the cheese, ensuring there are no holes or gaps.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring water to a light boil. Add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
- Working in batches of 3-4, add the pretzel bites to the boiling water. Boil for 20-30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, remove and place the pretzel bites into the skillet, seam side down. Repeat with remaining bites.
- Use a pastry brush to coat the outside of each bite with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy your gooey cheese-stuffed pretzel bites!
These delicious bites are sure to be a hit at any event, offering a delightful combination of soft pretzel dough and melted cheese. Enjoy!
