Beer Cheese Dip with Soft Pretzels
Perfect for entertaining, this crowd-pleasing dip pairs beautifully with warm, golden soft pretzels. Rich cheddar, a splash of beer and a hint of mustard create a smooth, savoury dip that’s ideal for sharing with family and friends.
How long will it take?
45 minutes
What’s the serving size?
Serves 6
What do I need?
For the Pretzels
- 500 g plain flour
- 7 g sachet instant dried yeast
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 300 mL warm water
- 50 g butter, melted
For the Poaching Solution
- 2 litres water
- 1/3 cup bicarbonate of soda
For Topping
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Sea salt
For the Dip
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 250 mL pale ale or lager
- 250 mL milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 300 g sharp cheddar, grated
- 50 g Parmesan, grated
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
How do I make it?
- Make the pretzel dough by combining flour, yeast, brown sugar and salt in a large bowl.
- Add warm water and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover and leave in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 220C.
- Line two baking trays with baking paper.
- Divide dough into 8 portions. Roll each portion into a long rope and twist into a traditional pretzel shape.
- Bring the water and bicarb to a gentle boil.
- Carefully lower each pretzel into the solution for 20-30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared trays.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until deep golden brown.
- While the pretzels bake, prepare the dip by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in beer and milk until smooth.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, cheddar and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the dip is silky smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the warm cheese dip to a serving bowl and place on a platter surrounded by freshly baked pretzels.
