Save It 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.
I have made this Pretzel Wreath Dip Ring several times for gatherings and it never fails to impress guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors.
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 to 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.
- Apply Topping:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake Wreath:
- Bake the wreath for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare 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 to 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 It This recipe has become a family favorite for special occasions, bringing everyone together to share and enjoy the delightful combination of pretzels and creamy dip.
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
Per serving: Calories 330, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 40 g, Protein 10 g
Save It This Pretzel Wreath Dip Ring makes a festive and delicious addition to any gathering.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I achieve a soft pretzel texture for the wreath?
Boil the dough balls briefly in a baking soda bath before baking. This step gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy, soft crust.
- → Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, the spinach cheese mixture can be combined beforehand and refrigerated. Warm it up in the oven just before serving to keep it bubbly.
- → What is the purpose of the beaten egg on the pretzel bites?
Brushing beaten egg on the pretzel dough before baking helps achieve a shiny, golden surface and enhances the color and texture.
- → Are there any recommended additions to the spinach cheese filling?
For extra depth, try adding a pinch of cayenne, nutmeg, or chopped artichokes to the filling for a unique twist.
- → How should I serve the pretzel wreath and dip?
Serve warm so guests can pull off individual pretzel bites and dip them into the creamy spinach cheese in the center.