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 has become a holiday favorite in our family gatherings, always bringing smiles and satisfied appetites.
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 with 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 Our family loves gathering around this appetizer, sharing laughter and the joy of taking turns to pull off soft pretzel bites.
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
Per serving Calories 330 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 40 g Protein 10 g
Save This pretzel wreath dip ring is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavor and festive presentation.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the perfect pretzel texture?
Boil the dough balls in a baking soda bath before baking; this creates the classic chewy crust with a soft interior.
- → Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the wreath in advance and bake it just before serving to maintain freshness and warmth.
- → What cheeses work best for the spinach dip?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese combine to create a creamy, flavorful dip that melts beautifully.
- → Is it possible to add extra flavor to the dip?
Adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg enhances the dip’s depth without overpowering its balance.
- → How should the wreath be served?
Serve warm, encouraging guests to pull off pretzel bites and dip directly into the spinach cheese center.