Cheesy biscuit balls with chili, garlic, and pretzel coating make a mouthwatering snack or appetizer.
# Components:
→ Biscuit Dough
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
06 - 3/4 cup buttermilk
→ Cheesy Filling
07 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
→ Flavorings
10 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
11 - 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Pretzel Coating
13 - 1/2 cup hot water
14 - 1 tablespoon baking soda
15 - 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
→ Topping
16 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
17 - Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
03 - Add cold butter to the bowl and blend with the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
04 - Stir buttermilk into the mixture, mixing just until a rough dough forms.
05 - Fold in cheddar, mozzarella, chives, minced garlic, chili flakes, and smoked paprika until evenly mixed.
06 - Divide dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
07 - Dissolve baking soda in hot water in a small bowl.
08 - Dip each dough ball briefly into the baking soda solution, then roll in crushed pretzels to cover.
09 - Place coated balls in the muffin tin. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until golden and puffed.
10 - Brush the tops with melted butter, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and serve warm.
