I made these beer soft pretzels as an adaptation from my original soft pretzel recipe.

To me, there is nothing better than a warm soft pretzel right out of the oven and these were absolutely perfect.

With my original recipe, I made them a little thinner but with these I wanted to make them big and fluffy like a hot pretzel you would get at the mall or movie theater.

They did not disappoint.

What are Beer Soft Pretzels?

Beer Soft Pretzels are a delightful twist on the classic soft pretzel. By incorporating beer into the dough, you get a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the traditional pretzel taste.

The beer not only adds a subtle richness but also helps to create a tender and chewy texture.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

This recipe is special because it combines the best of both worlds: the comforting taste of a homemade pretzel and the rich flavor of beer. It’s a personal favorite of mine, and I love making it for friends and family.

Plus, the accompanying Beer Cheese Dip takes it to the next level, making it an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

• Wheat Beer: Adds a subtle richness and depth to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar: Provides a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• Salt: Essential for flavor, it enhances the taste of the pretzels.
• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough, ensuring a tender bite.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• Olive Oil: Used to lightly oil the bowl, preventing the dough from sticking and adding a hint of flavor.

Boiling and Baking

• Water: Used to boil the pretzels, giving them their characteristic chewy texture.
• Baking Soda: Creates an alkaline environment that helps the pretzels develop a deep brown color and distinctive flavor.
• Egg Yolks: Brushed on the pretzels before baking, they add a beautiful golden color and shine.
• Coarse Salt: Sprinkled on top for that classic pretzel finish.

Beer Cheese Dip

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth base for the dip.
• Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Milk: Thins the dip to the perfect consistency.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the dip slightly, ensuring it clings to the pretzels.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Contributes a gooey, melty texture.
• Beer: Enhances the flavor of the dip, tying it back to the pretzels.

Substitutions & Additions

• Wheat Beer: You can substitute with any type of beer you prefer. For a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic beer or even sparkling water. Each substitution will slightly alter the flavor profile, with darker beers adding more depth and non-alcoholic options keeping it lighter.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar: Substitute with white sugar or honey. White sugar will keep the flavor neutral, while honey adds a floral sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: Use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Margarine will maintain a similar texture, while coconut oil adds a slight coconut flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This will change the texture slightly but will still yield delicious pretzels.
• Olive Oil: Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil can be used. These will not significantly alter the flavor.

Boiling and Baking

• Baking Soda: If you don’t have baking soda, you can use a baking powder solution, though it won’t give the same deep brown color.
• Egg Yolks: For an egg-free version, use a mixture of water and cornstarch or a commercial egg replacer. This will still give a nice sheen but might not be as golden.

Beer Cheese Dip

• Cream Cheese: Substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option. This will maintain the creamy texture.
• Milk: Use any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. These will slightly alter the flavor but keep the dip creamy.
• Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives. These will melt differently but still provide a cheesy flavor.
• Beer: As with the pretzels, you can use non-alcoholic beer or even a splash of vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version. This will change the flavor but keep the dip delicious.

How to Make this Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Pour the beer into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 20-30 seconds until slightly warm (around 110°F). Pour the warm beer into the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl) and add the brown sugar, salt, and yeast. Stir slightly to incorporate and let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast gets foamy.

Add the melted butter and flour to the mixture and knead with a dough hook on low until a dough ball is formed and smooth, not sticking to the sides of the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, then lightly oil the bowl and return the dough ball back to the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Boil the Pretzels

After the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 2 Tbsp of water. Set aside. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water and baking soda to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

While waiting for the water to boil, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long, then twist into a pretzel shape. One at a time, place each shaped pretzel into the simmering baking soda water for 30 seconds. Remove from the pot with a slotted spoon and place on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Brush each pretzel with the egg yolk wash, then sprinkle with coarse salt. Place in the hot oven and bake at 425°F for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.

Beer Cheese Dip

While the pretzels are baking, heat the butter, cream cheese, and milk in a small pot until just simmering. Whisk in the flour and let simmer for 1 minute to slightly thicken.

Gradually add small handfuls of cheese, whisking between each addition to let the cheese melt. Whisk in the beer and remove from heat.

Serve immediately as a dipping sauce for the pretzels.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Selecting the Beer: Choose a wheat beer for a mild flavor that complements the pretzels. However, feel free to experiment with different types of beer to find your favorite taste.

Kneading the Dough: Ensure the dough is smooth and not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.

Boiling the Pretzels: Boiling the pretzels in baking soda water gives them their characteristic chewy texture and golden-brown color.

Cheese Dip Consistency: If the cheese dip is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Beer Soft Pretzels warm with the Beer Cheese Dip on the side. They make a great appetizer or snack for parties, game days, or any casual gathering.

Pair them with your favorite beer for a complete experience.

Storage Suggestions

If you have any leftovers, store the pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

The Beer Cheese Dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat the pretzels in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different type of beer? Yes, you can use any type of beer you prefer. Each type will give the pretzels a slightly different flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

Can I freeze the pretzels? Yes, you can freeze the baked pretzels. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What can I use instead of beer in the cheese dip? You can substitute the beer with chicken broth or milk for a non-alcoholic version.

How do I prevent the pretzels from sticking to the parchment paper? Make sure to use enough flour when shaping the pretzels and consider lightly greasing the parchment paper.

These Beer Soft Pretzels are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic snack with a twist. The addition of beer in both the pretzels and the cheese dip adds a unique flavor that will impress your guests.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out!