If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect snack that combines chewy, golden-brown dough with a luscious, melty dip, then this Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. These bite-sized pretzels have that irresistible soft texture and a hint of saltiness on the crust that perfectly complements the creamy, flavorful vegan cheese sauce. Whether you’re craving a cozy movie-night treat or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers on every level. And the best part? It’s completely plant-based, proving that vegan snacks can be just as indulgent and delicious as their traditional counterparts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to create magic in this recipe. Each plays a key role, from the yeast that brings the dough to life to the vegan cheddar that ensures your cheese sauce is wonderfully rich and creamy. Get ready to see how basic pantry staples transform into a snack you’ll reach for again and again.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water: Perfect temperature helps activate the yeast and form a soft dough.
- 2 1/4 tsp fast-rise yeast: Ensures a quick rise for fluffy, airy pretzel bites.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1/4 cup melted vegan butter: Gives the dough richness and a tender crumb.
- 4+ cups flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1/2 tbsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the dough perfectly.
- 3 quarts water: Used for boiling pretzel bites to get that glossy, chewy exterior.
- 1/3 cup baking soda: Creates the classic pretzel crust during boiling.
- Oil or melted vegan butter: For brushing to add a golden finish and extra flavor.
- Pretzel salt: The crowning touch that gives each bite that addictive salty punch.
- 2 tbsp vegan butter (for sauce): Provides a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
- 2 tbsp flour (for sauce): Thickens the sauce to perfect dipping consistency.
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened rice milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and neutral, allowing cheese flavor to shine.
- 3/4 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds: The star of the sauce, delivering rich, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth: Adds depth and helps meld the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory note to the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 tsp salt (for sauce): Balances flavors without overpowering.
- Paprika (optional): A splash of color and a hint of smoky warmth when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in warm water alongside sugar—a crucial step to get that airy rise. Once bubbling and fragrant, mix in the melted vegan butter with the salt and slowly incorporate the flour until your dough forms a slightly sticky, elastic ball. Knead thoroughly to develop the gluten-like texture that makes these pretzel bites so delightfully chewy.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer your dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This step usually takes about an hour, and it’s the secret behind the perfect soft pretzel texture that everyone loves.
Step 3: Shape the Pretzel Bites
After rising, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Roll it into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. These small pieces are what make this Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe so convenient for snacking and sharing.
Step 4: Boil the Pretzel Bites
Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil with baking soda—this alkaline bath is essential for crafting that shiny, golden crust characteristic of any good pretzel. Dip the bites in batches for about 30 seconds each, then remove and place them on a baking sheet. This step locks in flavor and texture beautifully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Brush each pretzel bite generously with melted vegan butter and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, fragrant, and impossibly inviting. The warm aroma itself will have everyone eager to dig in.
Step 6: Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce
While the pretzels bake, start the vegan cheese sauce by melting vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook to make a roux, then gradually whisk in rice milk and vegetable broth until smooth and thickened. Fold in the vegan cheddar shreds, garlic powder, and salt, stirring until the cheese sauce is rich, creamy, and perfectly smooth—a dream dip to accompany your pretzel bites.
How to Serve Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on the cheese sauce for a burst of color and freshness. A dash of smoked paprika over the pretzels adds warmth and visual appeal that will make your snack table shine.
Side Dishes
This snack pairs wonderfully with crunchy veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices. For a more indulgent spread, add a tangy mustard dip or a vibrant tomato salsa to balance the creamy cheese and savory pretzels.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pretzel bites warm in a rustic wooden bowl with ramekins filled with the vegan cheese sauce and other dips. You can also thread the pretzel bites onto skewers for easy sharing at parties, or arrange them on a vibrant platter to impress your guests with color and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard!), store the pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them in a breathable container helps maintain the crust’s texture without getting soggy.
Freezing
These pretzel bites freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen for a quick, fresh-tasting snack anytime.
Reheating
To bring your pretzels back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s crispness while warming the inside to chewy perfection. Warm your vegan cheese sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of rice milk for the cheese sauce?
Absolutely! While rice milk offers a neutral base, any unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat will work well for the vegan cheese sauce, just avoid sweetened versions to keep the flavor balanced.
Is it necessary to boil the pretzel bites in baking soda water?
Yes, the baking soda bath is key to developing the classic pretzel crust and that lovely deep brown color. It changes the pH and helps the crust caramelize properly when baked.
What’s the best way to get the cheese sauce super smooth?
Whisk continuously while incorporating the plant milk into the roux and melt the cheese shreds on low heat to prevent clumping. Using vegan shredded cheese designed for melting or finely shredded blocks makes the smoothest sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional pretzels rely on gluten for texture, so for a gluten-free version, you’ll need a specialty gluten-free flour blend designed for breads. Keep in mind the texture will be different, but still tasty!
How long does the dough need to rise if my kitchen is cold?
In cooler environments, the dough may take up to two hours to double in size. To speed things up, place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free area or inside an oven with just the light on.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly joyful about making and sharing Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe. It’s more than just a snack—it’s a warm, comforting bite that invites you to savor every moment. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe promises smiles, satisfying bites, and all-around deliciousness. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce are a delightful plant-based snack perfect for sharing. The pretzels are chewy on the inside with a golden, slightly crispy exterior, enhanced by a classic baking soda bath and topped with pretzel salt. Paired with a creamy, flavorful vegan cheese sauce made from cheddar-style shreds and rice milk, this recipe offers a warm, satisfying treat that’s entirely dairy-free.
Ingredients
Pretzel Bites
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 tsp fast-rise yeast
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup melted vegan butter
- 4+ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 3 quarts water
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- Oil or melted vegan butter, for brushing
- Pretzel salt, for sprinkling
Vegan Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp vegan butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened rice milk (preferred for neutral flavor)
- 3/4 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (or your favorite vegan cheese)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Paprika (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, fast-rise yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: Add the melted vegan butter, flour (start with 4 cups), and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour a little at a time until manageable.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Place the dough back into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into 1- to 1.5-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Bring 3 quarts of water and 1/3 cup baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches, letting them boil for about 30 seconds each. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the Pretzel Bites: Brush each pretzel bite lightly with oil or melted vegan butter and sprinkle generously with pretzel salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown.
- Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce: While the pretzel bites bake, melt the vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring continuously.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the rice milk and vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Simmer the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and add the vegan cheddar cheese shreds. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and optional paprika to taste. Keep warm until serving.
- Serve: Transfer the pretzel bites to a serving platter and serve warm with the vegan cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious plant-based snack!
Notes
- The baking soda bath is essential for achieving the classic pretzel texture and flavor.
- You can substitute rice milk with another unsweetened plant-based milk, but rice milk maintains a neutral flavor.
- If you prefer a different vegan cheese, feel free to use your favorite brand or type.
- Wear oven mitts when handling the hot baking soda water to avoid burns.
- These pretzel bites are best served fresh but can be reheated in an oven or toaster oven.
