Pin This A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
I first served this Pretzel Joy Wreath at a family holiday party and it was a huge hit everyone loved pulling apart the warm pretzel bites with melted cheese inside.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 ¼ cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (7 g) instant yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Cheese Filling: 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella, ½ cup (60 g) cream cheese softened, ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pretzel Bath & Topping: ½ cup (120 g) baking soda, 8 cups (2 L) water, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash), Coarse pretzel salt for sprinkling, 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for brushing)
- Garnish: ¼ cup (4 g) fresh parsley chopped, ½ cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine flour yeast sugar and salt Add warm milk and melted butter Mix and knead until a soft smooth dough forms (about 5 7 minutes) Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes or until doubled in size
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile mix mozzarella cream cheese Parmesan chives garlic powder and black pepper in a bowl until well combined Set aside
- Step 3:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Step 4:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 24 equal pieces Flatten each piece place ~1 teaspoon cheese mixture in the center and pinch dough around filling to seal into a ball
- Step 5:
- Arrange balls in a ring shape on the prepared baking sheet touching each other to form a wreath
- Step 6:
- In a large pot bring water and baking soda to a boil Carefully lower each ball into the boiling solution for 15 20 seconds then transfer back to the baking sheet maintaining the wreath shape
- Step 7:
- Brush balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt
- Step 8:
- Bake for 18 22 minutes or until deep golden brown
- Step 9:
- Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter if desired Garnish with parsley and nestle cherry tomatoes between the pretzel balls for a festive look
- Step 10:
- Serve warm pulling apart to enjoy
Pin This This recipe always brings everyone together my family loves to gather around and pull apart the warm pretzel bites and enjoy the melty cheese inside.
Notes
For extra flavor add a little Dijon mustard to the cheese filling Serve with honey mustard or spicy cheese dip
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Saucepan Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) milk eggs May contain Traces of nuts or soy (check cheese and butter labels) Always double-check ingredient labels for allergen safety
Pin This This Pretzel Joy Wreath makes a fantastic centerpiece and appetizer for any occasion Enjoy the warm cheesy bites fresh out of the oven for best taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve the perfect pretzel texture?
Boiling the dough balls briefly in a baking soda solution before baking creates the signature chewy crust and adds a distinctive flavor.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used in the filling?
Yes, swapping mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar adds a different flavor and texture to the filling while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the best way to assemble the wreath shape?
Arrange the filled dough balls touching each other on a baking sheet in a ring, maintaining close contact to form a pull-apart wreath.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the cheese filling?
Incorporate a touch of Dijon mustard or garlic powder into the cheese mixture to enhance the savory profile.
- → What garnishes complement this appetizer?
Chopped fresh parsley and halved cherry tomatoes add color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
- → Is there a recommended dipping sauce?
Honey mustard or a spicy cheese dip pairs beautifully with these pretzel bites, balancing richness and adding zest.