Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce from Culver's feature soft, golden-brown mini pretzels paired with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce made from authentic Wisconsin cheddar, delivering a warm and savory snack that's perfectly chewy and cheesy.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
- Dough scraper
- Kitchen scale (optional)
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Slotted spoon
- Pot (for boiling pretzels)
- Cooling rack
- Brush (for butter or egg wash)
- Knife or bench cutter
Ingredients
- For Pretzel Bites:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water (for boiling)
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for topping)
- For Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
When selecting ingredients for your pretzel bites, be sure to use active dry yeast to ensure proper dough rising and achieve a soft, chewy texture. Authentic Wisconsin cheddar cheese is key to replicating the rich and creamy flavor of the cheese sauce from Culver's. Baking soda is essential for the boiling step to create the pretzels' characteristic golden-brown crust. Whole milk helps the sauce achieve a smooth, creamy consistency, while optional spices like ground mustard and cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile. Your Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce from Culver's copycat menu will deliver a perfect balance of savory warmth and cheesy indulgence.
Instructions
- Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce Instruction List:
- **Pretzel Bites:**
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in mixing bowl; let sit until foamy (5 min).
- Add melted butter and salt.
- Gradually mix in flour; knead until smooth (by hand or with stand mixer).
- Cover dough and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment.
- In large pot, bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a boil.
- Punch down dough; turn onto lightly floured surface.
- Divide dough; roll into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil bites in baking soda water (10–15 sec); remove with slotted spoon.
- Place bites on prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg; sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake 12–15 min until golden brown.
- Cool on wire rack and brush with melted butter, if desired.
- **Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce:**
- Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour; cook 1–2 min to form roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk; cook until thickened.
- Lower heat; add cheese, salt, mustard, and cayenne.
- Stir until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
- **To Serve:**
- Serve warm pretzel bites with Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce for dipping.
Substitution
Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce from Culver's copycat menu offer the same soft, chewy pretzels and creamy, sharp cheese sauce you expect from the original. You can substitute active dry yeast with instant yeast, adjusting rising time accordingly, or swap whole milk for 2% milk to slightly reduce creaminess in the cheese sauce. If you don't have baking soda for the pretzel bath, baking powder can work as a mild alternative, but the classic chewy crust may be less pronounced. Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement to ensure the dough consistency is perfect, especially if you don't have a stand mixer and are mixing by hand. For topping, kosher salt can replace coarse salt if needed, providing a similar salty crunch on the pretzels.
Tips
Make sure your yeast activates properly by using warm water around 100-110degF; if the water is too hot or cold, the dough might not rise well. When boiling pretzel bites in baking soda water, avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and the signature chewy crust. Use a brush to apply the egg wash evenly on each bite for that classic golden-brown finish, and sprinkle coarse salt immediately to help it stick. Keep your cheese sauce warm but not boiling to prevent the cheddar from becoming grainy, preserving its smooth and creamy texture for dipping your pretzel bites.
Nutritions
Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce provide a satisfying mix of carbohydrates and protein, with the pretzels delivering energy from all-purpose flour and the cheese sauce supplying calcium and protein from authentic Wisconsin cheddar. The baking soda bath helps create the distinct chewy texture while contributing minimal sodium, and the egg wash adds a golden finish without significant calories. Whole milk in the cheese sauce adds additional nutrients like vitamin D and healthy fats, enhancing the sauce's richness and nutritional profile. When enjoying this snack, your body benefits from a balance of energy and essential nutrients, making it both indulgent and nourishing.
Storage
Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture. The Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce should be refrigerated in a sealed container and consumed within 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm the pretzel bites in the oven and the cheese sauce on the stovetop, stirring frequently to restore the creamy consistency for your next savory snack.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber in your pretzel bites. Instead of boiling the pretzels in baking soda water, try using beer for a unique twist that enhances the crust's flavor and adds a subtle hoppy note. For the cheese sauce, swap out Wisconsin cheddar for a blend of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda to deepen the savory profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in finely chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce before serving.
Allergies
Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce contain common allergens such as wheat (flour) and dairy (butter, milk, cheddar cheese). The recipe also includes eggs, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies to gluten, dairy, or eggs, it's important to avoid this snack or look for suitable alternatives.
Why this recipe?
Pretzel Bites with Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce from Culver's restaurant appeal to customers because of their warm, soft pretzels paired with a rich, creamy cheese sauce crafted from authentic Wisconsin cheddar. The unique combination delivers a perfect balance of savory flavor and satisfying texture that makes this snack highly addictive. You can replicate this popular menu item at home to enjoy an authentic Culver's experience while customizing the cheese sauce's richness and spice level. Making a copycat version is worth trying for those who crave the unbeatable taste without waiting in line.