Name: Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat); Extra shredded cheddar and jalapeño slices for garnish (optional); ⅓ cup baking soda; 6 cups water; 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash); Coarse salt for topping

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Get ready to fall in love with homemade soft pretzels all over again! These Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a flavorful twist—literally—on the classic snack, delivering fluffy, golden dough swirled with sharp cheddar and flecks of fresh jalapeño in every bite. Whether you’re prepping for game day, planning a party, or looking to spice up your snack routine, this recipe brings together melty cheese, gentle heat, and that signature pretzel chew. You’ll want to make a double batch—trust me!

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists comes from a handful of pantry staples mingling with bold, fresh flavors. Each ingredient plays a role in building the perfect balance of tender dough, cheesy richness, and just the right kick of heat.

Warm water: The ideal temperature helps activate the yeast for fluffy, well-risen dough.
Active dry yeast: This is the secret to those airy, bakery-style pretzel twists.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness wakes up the yeast and rounds out the flavor.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and that classic pretzel bite.
Salt: Enhances every other flavor and gives the pretzels their signature taste.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into pockets of gooey, tangy goodness.
Fresh jalapeños: Bring brightness and just the right level of heat—remove seeds for milder flavor, or leave them in if you like it spicy!
Baking soda: This is what creates that classic pretzel crust during the quick water bath.
Egg yolk + water: The egg wash gives your twists that irresistible golden, glossy finish.
Coarse salt: A sprinkle on top gives the perfect salty crunch in every bite.
Extra cheddar and jalapeño slices (optional): For a show-stopping finish and even more flavor.

How to Make Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar together and let it sit for about five minutes. You’ll know the mixture is ready when it looks foamy on top—this means your yeast is alive and kicking, which is key for fluffy pretzel twists. Add the flour, salt, and melted butter, then stir until a rough dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Add the Good Stuff

Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—think of this as the secret handshake for perfect pretzels. Once you have that dreamy dough texture, gently fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped jalapeños, making sure they’re sprinkled throughout for bites of flavor in every twist.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Set it somewhere cozy and let it rise for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This is the perfect time to preheat your oven to 425°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Step 4: Shape the Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, then shape it into classic pretzel twists or fun spirals. This is where you can get creative—no two twists need to look exactly the same!

Step 5: The Signature Pretzel Bath

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and carefully add the baking soda. One by one, dip each twist into the boiling solution for about 20 to 30 seconds. This quick bath is what gives Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists their golden, chewy exterior and unique flavor.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Transfer the twists to your prepared baking sheets. Brush each with the egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Feel free to top with extra shredded cheddar and a few jalapeño slices for extra wow-factor. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and irresistible.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let your pretzel twists cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet—this helps set the cheesy, crusty exterior. Serve warm for the ultimate gooey, spicy experience!

How to Serve Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Garnishes

Sprinkle your fresh-out-of-the-oven twists with even more shredded cheddar and a few thin jalapeño slices for a pop of color and extra heat. A drizzle of melted butter or a dash of smoked paprika also takes these pretzel twists to the next level.

Side Dishes

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are phenomenal with a side of creamy queso, classic ranch dip, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Pair them with a crisp veggie platter, hearty chili, or your favorite soup for a satisfying meal or snack spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your twists high on a big wooden board for a rustic party centerpiece, or serve them in a bread basket lined with a checkered towel for cozy, homey vibes. For game day, cut them into bite-sized pieces and skewer with toothpicks for the ultimate finger food!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists left (which honestly is a big “if”), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and tasty, perfect for snacking!

Freezing

These pretzel twists freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and pop into a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—great for when you need a cheesy, spicy treat on demand.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked texture, reheat your pretzel twists in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven will preserve that perfect crust.

FAQs

Can I make Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists spicier?

Absolutely! If you want extra heat, keep the seeds in your jalapeños or add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the dough. You can even use hotter peppers if you’re feeling adventurous.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely—while sharp cheddar brings the best flavor and melt, feel free to try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a fun flavor twist.

Do I have to do the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is essential for getting that classic pretzel color, flavor, and chewy crust. Skipping it will make your twists taste more like regular bread, so don’t miss this step!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough, let it rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking your Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists.

Are Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists vegetarian?

They sure are! Just be sure your cheese and egg wash are vegetarian-friendly, and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling a tray of homemade Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists from the oven—the aroma, the golden color, the gooey cheese and spicy jalapeño peeking through. Whether you’re sharing with friends or keeping them all to yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to bring big smiles and happy snacking. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new signature treat!

Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists Recipe

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4.9 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 12 pretzel twists 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Twists are a perfect snack that combines the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños with the rich, sharp flavor of cheddar cheese. Soft on the inside with a golden, slightly crunchy crust, these pretzels are a delightful treat ideal for game days or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Fillings and Toppings

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
Extra shredded cheddar and jalapeño slices for garnish (optional)

Baking Soda Bath

⅓ cup baking soda
6 cups water

Egg Wash and Finishing

1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Coarse salt for topping

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Instructions

Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Make Dough: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Prepare Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda, stirring until dissolved. This bath will give the pretzels their signature chewy crust.
Shape Pretzels: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and twist it into a pretzel shape or a spiral according to your preference.
Boil Pretzels: Carefully dip each pretzel twist into the boiling baking soda solution for 20–30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
Egg Wash and Season: Brush each pretzel twist with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Add extra shredded cheddar and jalapeño slices on top if desired for added flavor and visual appeal.
Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until they turn a golden brown color.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pretzel twists to cool slightly after baking. Serve warm for the best taste experience, preferably with queso or ranch dip.

Notes

For spicier pretzels, leave the jalapeño seeds in the dough mixture.
These pretzel twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to restore their softness and warmth.
They pair wonderfully with queso dip, ranch dressing, or your favorite mustard.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American