Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip features a smooth blend of melted cheddar and creamy mozzarella cheeses, served warm with a golden, soft pretzel for a deliciously cheesy and satisfying snack.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Ladle
- Serving bowl
- Pretzel tray
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Soft pretzels (for serving)
Using a blend of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses ensures a smooth and creamy texture in your cheese dip. Whole milk is preferred for its rich flavor and creamy consistency, which helps achieve that perfect melt. Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour form a roux to thicken the dip without overwhelming the cheese flavors. Measuring spices like garlic powder and salt carefully enhances the taste without overpowering the cheesy richness. Your Cheese Dip from Auntie Anne's copycat menu promises a warm, velvety experience that pairs perfectly with soft pretzels for a satisfying snack.
Instructions
- Grate the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Measure out all ingredients.
- In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth.
- Cook, whisking, until mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in salt and garlic powder.
- Lower heat and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Whisk continuously until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Ladle cheese dip into a serving bowl.
- Serve warm with soft pretzels on a pretzel tray.
Substitution
Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip offers a creamy, melted blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, perfect for pairing with soft pretzels. You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk or half-and-half for a richer texture, while using sharp cheddar enhances the cheese flavor. If you don't have unsalted butter, regular butter works fine but may add a slight saltiness. For a smoother dip, whisk continuously when adding milk to prevent lumps from the flour mixture. Serve immediately for the best warm and gooey experience.
Tips
When grating cheddar and mozzarella, use the finest grater side for a smoother melt in your dip. Whisk the roux thoroughly for a full minute to avoid any raw flour taste, ensuring a silky base for your cheese sauce. Slowly add milk while whisking to prevent lumps and achieve a creamy consistency. Keep the heat low when adding cheese to avoid separation, and serve the dip immediately to enjoy its optimal warm and gooey texture.
Nutritions
Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip combines cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, delivering a rich source of calcium and protein essential for bone health and muscle repair. The use of whole milk and butter adds vitamin A and healthy fats, contributing to energy and nutrient absorption in your diet. Salt and garlic powder provide minimal sodium and antioxidants, respectively, enhancing flavor without overwhelming your meal. Enjoying this dip with soft pretzels offers carbohydrates that fuel your body, making it a balanced snack option when served in moderation.
Storage
Store Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly after use to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. To reheat, gently warm the dip in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally for a smooth consistency. Your best experience comes from serving it warm, so avoid freezing as it may affect the texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with different cheese combinations such as pepper jack or gouda to give the dip a unique flavor profile. For a richer texture, substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream or add a splash of beer for depth. Incorporate spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to introduce a mild kick without overpowering the cheese. If you prefer a smoother dip, strain the sauce after melting the cheese to remove any lumps.
Allergies
Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip contains dairy ingredients like cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whole milk, and butter, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins or lactose. The dip also includes wheat-based all-purpose flour, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you have allergies to dairy or gluten, it's important to avoid this snack or seek suitable alternatives to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
Auntie Anne's Cheese Dip menu is popular for its creamy texture and perfectly balanced blend of cheddar and spices, enhancing the signature pretzel flavor. The dip's rich taste creates a satisfying and indulgent snack experience that keeps customers returning. Making a copycat version at home allows you to replicate this unique flavor while customizing the spice level to your preference. Your homemade dip can deliver the same delicious quality at a lower cost, making it a delightful treat to enjoy anytime.