Save to Pinterest Soft, golden pretzel sticks loaded with gooey cheese and spicy jalapeños—a perfect snack or party appetizer with a kick.
The first time I baked these cheesy jalapeño pretzel cake sticks, my friends couldn’t stop reaching for more. They were amazed by the gooey cheese and gentle heat from the jalapeños.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Filling: 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (55 g) finely chopped pickled or fresh jalapeños (seeds removed)
- Pretzel Bath: 6 cups (1.4 L) water, 1/4 cup (55 g) baking soda
- Topping: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Make the dough:
- In a large bowl mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Knead and rise:
- Add flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Mix and knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover bowl and let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Prepare for baking:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the sticks:
- Punch down dough. Divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a rectangle (about 6x2 inches).
- Add filling:
- Sprinkle center of each rectangle with cheese and jalapeños. Fold dough over filling and pinch seams to seal, forming sticks.
- Pretzel bath:
- In a large pot bring water to a boil. Carefully add baking soda (it will foam).
- Boil sticks:
- Gently lower each stick into boiling water for 20 30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
- Finish and bake:
- Brush sticks with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake 15 18 minutes or until golden brown and cheese bubbles. Cool slightly before serving.
Save to Pinterest Kids in my family love rolling the dough and adding extra cheese before baking. Sharing these warm, cheesy sticks has become a fun weekend tradition.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, large pot, slotted spoon, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (cheese, butter). For allergies use suitable alternatives and check labels.
Nutritional Information
Each stick has about 215 calories, 8g total fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these cheesy jalapeño pretzel cake sticks fresh for the best texture. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, substitute cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor and melt texture.
- → How do I make sticks less spicy?
Choose pickled jalapeños or remove seeds from fresh jalapeños to reduce the heat in each bite.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Spicy mustard, ranch, or even cheese sauce make excellent accompaniments for these savory sticks.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate the dough overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
- → How do I reheat pretzel sticks?
Reheat sticks in the oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to restore crispness and warmth.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may differ from traditional pretzel dough.