Save to Pinterest A festive and shareable appetizer featuring soft pretzel bites baked in a wreath shape, perfect for dipping into a creamy, cheesy spinach dip at the center.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, loved for its fun presentation and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C) 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted 1 tbsp granulated sugar 1 tsp salt
- Baking Soda Bath: 1/2 cup (120 g) baking soda 8 cups (2 L) water
- Topping: 1 egg beaten 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
- Spinach Cheese Dip: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach chopped 2 cloves garlic minced 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter and salt. Add flour gradually, mixing to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Wreath:
- Punch down dough and divide into 32 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in two concentric circles on the baking sheet to form a wreath shape, leaving space in the center for the dip.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, drop dough balls into the bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Topping:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Spinach Cheese Dip:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Bake Dip:
- Transfer dip to a small ovenproof bowl. Place in the center of the wreath on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 12 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove wreath and dip from oven. Serve warm, letting guests pull off pretzel bites and dip them.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings smiles at family gatherings, perfect for sharing and dipping together.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, stand mixer (optional), measuring cups and spoons, large pot, slotted spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper, small ovenproof bowl, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs. May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities. Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330 Total Fat: 14 g Carbohydrates: 40 g Protein: 10 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This pretzel wreath dip ring is both visually impressive and delicious, making it an ideal appetizer for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the pretzel wreath?
Divide the dough into small balls, then arrange them in concentric circles on a baking sheet, leaving an empty center for the dip.
- → Why is a baking soda bath used for the pretzels?
Boiling the pretzel dough balls briefly in a baking soda solution helps develop the signature chewy crust and golden color.
- → Can I make the spinach cheese dip ahead of time?
Yes, the dip can be prepared in advance and baked along with the pretzel wreath just before serving.
- → What variations can enhance the dip?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne, nutmeg, or chopped artichokes to the spinach cheese dip for extra flavor.
- → Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, it contains no meat and uses vegetarian ingredients including cheeses and fresh spinach.
- → How long should the dough rise before baking?
Allow the dough to rise covered for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size for optimal texture.