Pin 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 enjoy making this pretzel wreath because it brings everyone together around the table to share and dip.
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 7 minutes until smooth Cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size
- Preheat the 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
- Brush Topping:
- Brush pretzel balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt
- Bake the wreath:
- Bake the wreath for 15 18 minutes or until golden brown
- Prepare the 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 12 minutes until hot and bubbly
- Serve:
- Remove wreath and dip from oven Serve warm letting guests pull off pretzel bites and dip them
Pin This recipe always creates wonderful family moments as everyone loves making and sharing the wreath.
Tips for Variations
Try adding chopped artichokes or a pinch of cayenne to the spinach dip for an exciting twist.
Storage Instructions
Assemble the wreath ahead of time and bake just before serving to keep pretzels fresh and warm.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat gluten milk and eggs May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens.
Pin This pretzel wreath dip ring is perfect for festive occasions and will surely impress your guests.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I shape the pretzel wreath?
Divide the dough into small balls and arrange them in two concentric circles on a baking sheet, leaving space in the center for the dip.
- → Why is the baking soda bath important?
The baking soda bath helps develop the pretzels' classic chewy crust and golden color during baking.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise before shaping and baking the wreath fresh.
- → What variations can I make to the spinach dip?
Try adding cayenne, nutmeg, or chopped artichokes to the dip to enhance or alter the flavor.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish contains no meat and uses dairy-based ingredients, fitting a vegetarian diet.