There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a warm, soft pretzel with a chewy crust and fluffy interior. Now imagine pairing that perfect bite-sized pretzel with a creamy, cheesy dipping sauce—and better yet, a vegan cheese sauce that’s rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor! These Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving them as a snack, party appetizer, or movie-night treat. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is fun to make, easy to share, and full of flavor. You’ll love how these pretzel bites come together with a few pantry staples, and the vegan cheese sauce is a game-changer that you’ll want to dip everything in!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step of making these pretzel bites, from mixing the dough and shaping the bites to boiling and baking them for that authentic pretzel texture. The vegan cheese sauce is equally simple, made from ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices, creating a sauce that’s just as satisfying as traditional cheese. I’ll also share tips for customizing the flavors, storage and reheating instructions, and ideas for serving. So let’s get ready to make these irresistible Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Pretzel Flavor with a Twist: These soft pretzel bites capture the authentic pretzel flavor and texture but are easier to make and share than full-sized pretzels.
Dairy-Free, Vegan Cheese Sauce: The creamy, tangy vegan cheese sauce is rich and satisfying, giving you all the cheesy goodness without any dairy.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day, or looking for a fun family snack, these pretzel bites are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Simple and Wholesome Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these pretzel bites and vegan cheese sauce are easy to prepare without any complicated ingredients.
Fun and Customizable: Add toppings like flaky salt, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds to the pretzel bites, and adjust the spice level of the cheese sauce to make this recipe your own.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 50 pretzel bites
- Serving Size: About 10 pretzel bites with cheese sauce
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients
For the Soft Pretzel Bites:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- 6 cups water (for boiling)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
For the Vegan Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes)
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or soy milk (or more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.
- Add Flour and Salt: Once the yeast is foamy, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch the dough without it tearing. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it to knead the dough on medium speed for 3-4 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegan Cheese Sauce
- Soak the Cashews: While the dough is rising, place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes, which will help them blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Blend the Cheese Sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and transfer them to a high-speed blender. Add the nutritional yeast, almond milk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or nutritional yeast to suit your taste. Set the sauce aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Shape the Pretzel Bites
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles, then transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
- Roll the Dough: Take one piece of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Step 4: Boil the Pretzel Bites
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the baking soda (the water will bubble up). Stir to dissolve.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: Working in batches, add a few pretzel bites to the boiling water and cook for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the water and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda bath gives them that distinctive chewy texture and golden-brown color.
- Sprinkle with Salt: While the pretzel bites are still wet, sprinkle them with flaky sea salt.
Step 5: Bake the Pretzel Bites
- Bake the Pretzels: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pretzel bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They’re best enjoyed warm.
- Reheat the Cheese Sauce (If Needed): If the cheese sauce has thickened, gently warm it in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it for 15-20 seconds to loosen it up.
How to Serve Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce
These pretzel bites are best served warm, with the vegan cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Here are a few ideas to elevate your presentation and pairings:
- With Mustard: Serve with spicy mustard or honey mustard alongside the cheese sauce for a classic pretzel pairing.
- Sprinkled with Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.
- With Extra Cheese Sauce: Double the cheese sauce recipe if you’re serving a crowd; it tends to disappear quickly!
- As Part of a Snack Platter: Include the pretzel bites and cheese sauce on a snack board with fresh vegetables, olives, and other dips for a beautiful appetizer spread.
- With a Beer or Sparkling Water: Pair with a cold drink like a crisp lager or sparkling water to balance the richness of the pretzels and cheese sauce.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use Warm Water for the Dough: Make sure the water for the dough is warm (about 110°F), which helps activate the yeast. Too hot, and it can kill the yeast; too cold, and the dough won’t rise properly.
- Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda bath is key to achieving the chewy, golden crust. Without it, the pretzels won’t have the same texture or color.
- Blend the Cheese Sauce Thoroughly: For a silky-smooth cheese sauce, blend the ingredients until completely smooth. If your blender isn’t very powerful, soak the cashews longer to help them soften.
- Adjust the Consistency of the Cheese Sauce: Add more almond milk if you prefer a thinner sauce, or use less for a thicker consistency. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so adjust accordingly.
- Serve the Pretzels Warm: These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, as the texture is soft and chewy. If they cool down, you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic and Herb Pretzel Bites: Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and dried Italian herbs to the dough for a savory, flavorful twist. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites: After boiling, bake the pretzel bites as usual, then brush them with melted coconut oil and roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they’re warm. Serve with a vegan vanilla icing for dipping.
- Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick. This pairs beautifully with the soft pretzels.
- Beer Cheese Sauce: For a tangy twist, replace half of the almond milk in the cheese sauce with a light, vegan-friendly beer. The beer adds a unique depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Pretzel Bites: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free for a delicious, allergy-friendly version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover pretzel bites, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their soft texture.
- Freezing Pretzel Bites: Once baked, let the pretzel bites cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Storing the Cheese Sauce: The vegan cheese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk if it’s too thick.
Special Equipment
- Stand Mixer (Optional): A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can make kneading the dough easier, but it’s not necessary.
- Slotted Spoon: Useful for removing the pretzel bites from the boiling water.
- High-Speed Blender: A high-speed blender is ideal for achieving a smooth, creamy cheese sauce, especially when using soaked cashews.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the pretzel dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough, let it rise, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
2. Do I need a high-speed blender for the cheese sauce?
A high-speed blender will give you the smoothest sauce, but if you don’t have one, soak the cashews longer (up to 4 hours) and use a regular blender.
3. Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?
Yes! Almond, soy, and oat milk all work well in the cheese sauce. Just make sure to use unsweetened milk for the best flavor.
4. Can I bake instead of boiling the pretzels?
The baking soda bath is essential for authentic pretzel texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Just note that the bites will have a softer, bread-like texture.
5. Can I make the cheese sauce nut-free?
For a nut-free option, replace the cashews with 1 cup of peeled, boiled potatoes or 1 cup of cooked carrots for a smooth, creamy base.
Conclusion
These Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce are a delicious, plant-based twist on a classic snack. With their chewy texture, golden-brown exterior, and soft, fluffy interior, these pretzel bites are everything you love about traditional pretzels in an easy-to-share form. Paired with a creamy vegan cheese sauce made from cashews and nutritional yeast, they’re a snack that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or game day, these pretzel bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re customizable, freezer-friendly, and easy to make with simple ingredients.
Try this recipe the next time you’re craving a savory snack, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of homemade pretzel bites dipped in creamy, cheesy goodness—entirely plant-based and absolutely delicious. Happy baking!
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Soft Pretzel Bites with Vegan Cheese Sauce
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 50 pretzel bites 1x
Ingredients
For the Soft Pretzel Bites:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- 6 cups water (for boiling)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
For the Vegan Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes)
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or soy milk (or more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.
- Add Flour and Salt: Once the yeast is foamy, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch the dough without it tearing. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it to knead the dough on medium speed for 3-4 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegan Cheese Sauce
- Soak the Cashews: While the dough is rising, place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes, which will help them blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Blend the Cheese Sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and transfer them to a high-speed blender. Add the nutritional yeast, almond milk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or nutritional yeast to suit your taste. Set the sauce aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Shape the Pretzel Bites
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles, then transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
- Roll the Dough: Take one piece of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Step 4: Boil the Pretzel Bites
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the baking soda (the water will bubble up). Stir to dissolve.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: Working in batches, add a few pretzel bites to the boiling water and cook for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the water and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda bath gives them that distinctive chewy texture and golden-brown color.
- Sprinkle with Salt: While the pretzel bites are still wet, sprinkle them with flaky sea salt.
Step 5: Bake the Pretzel Bites
- Bake the Pretzels: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pretzel bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They’re best enjoyed warm.
- Reheat the Cheese Sauce (If Needed): If the cheese sauce has thickened, gently warm it in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it for 15-20 seconds to loosen it up.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 10 pretzel bites with cheese sauce
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g