Save A festive pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering
I first served this at a family Christmas party and it was an instant hit everyone loved pulling apart the cheesy pretzel bites
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
Save This appetizer always brings the family together as everyone eagerly pulls apart the wreath making it a memorable shared experience
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with honey mustard or a spicy cheese dip for extra flavor
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage
Variations
Try swapping mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar to create your own twist on the cheese filling
Save This pretzel wreath is the perfect festive appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a cold drink Enjoy making and sharing it!
Cooking Guide
- → How do I get the pretzel dough soft and chewy?
Use warm milk and melted butter in the dough, and make sure to let it rise until doubled, ensuring a soft, tender texture before boiling and baking.
- → Why is the baking soda bath important?
Boiling the dough balls briefly in baking soda water develops the characteristic pretzel crust and deepens the flavor before baking.
- → Can I substitute the cheese blend?
Yes, try Gruyère or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different, flavorful twist while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the best way to assemble the wreath shape?
Arrange the sealed dough balls closely in a circle on the baking sheet, touching edges to form a connected wreath.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of the filling?
Adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cheese mix offers a subtle tang that complements the cheese and herbs beautifully.