Pin it A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
This appetizer quickly became a favorite at our family parties & always disappears first from the table.
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
- Prepare Dough:
- 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.
- Make Cheese Filling:
- Meanwhile, mix mozzarella, cream cheese, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form Pretzel Bites:
- 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.
- Arrange Wreath:
- Arrange balls in a ring shape on the prepared baking sheet, touching each other to form a wreath.
- Pretzel Bath:
- 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.
- Apply Egg Wash & Salt:
- Brush balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until deep golden brown.
- Final Touches:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Serve warm pulling apart to enjoy.
Pin it We gather around the table each holiday, pulling apart the wreath and sharing laughs as the pretzel bites disappear one by one.
Notes
For extra flavor add a little Dijon mustard to the cheese filling Serve with honey mustard or spicy cheese dip Swap mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar for a different twist
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 it This wreath appetizer is the perfect festive starter that brings everyone together in delicious fun.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What gives the pretzels their signature crust?
Dipping the dough balls in a boiling baking soda solution before baking creates the traditional chewy, golden crust associated with pretzels.
- → Can I use other cheeses for the filling?
Yes, swapping mozzarella with Gruyère or cheddar adds a different flavor profile to the creamy, savory filling.
- → How long should the dough rise for best results?
Letting the dough rest in a warm place for about 45 minutes ensures it doubles in size and yields a soft texture.
- → What is the purpose of the egg wash on top?
Brushing with beaten egg before baking gives the pretzel bites a shiny, rich golden finish and helps the salt adhere.
- → How are the pretzel bites arranged for baking?
The filled dough balls are placed touching in a ring shape on a baking sheet to create a festive, pull-apart wreath.
- → Can this preparation be served warm or cold?
These pulls-apart bites are best enjoyed warm, allowing the cheese filling to be soft and melty.