Step-by-step instructions

Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add sugar and salt, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Make the dough: Stir in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place it back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F while you prepare the pretzels.
Shape the pretzels: Divide the dough into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, and twist each rope into a pretzel shape. Place them on a baking sheet.
Boil the pretzels: In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds before returning them to the baking sheet.
Prepare for baking: Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, heat the beer over medium heat. Toss the shredded cheese with cornstarch in a separate bowl. Gradually whisk the cheese mixture into the beer until melted and smooth. Stir in milk, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Serve: Dip those warm pretzel knots into your creamy Hefeweizen cheese sauce and savor the deliciousness!

Best ways to enjoy it

These pretzel knots are versatile and pair well with various dishes. For a complete Oktoberfest experience, consider serving them alongside mustard, sauerkraut, or bratwurst. You can also enjoy them as a game-day snack with a side of spicy salsa or a zesty guacamole. Set them on a platter with colorful toothpicks for a fun appetizer during your next gathering.

How to store & freeze

To keep those pretzel knots fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled pretzels in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Helpful cooking tips

Kneading technique: Make sure to knead the dough enough until it’s smooth but not over-kneaded, as this can make the pretzels tough.
Boiling is key: Don’t skip the boiling step, as it gives the pretzels that characteristic chewy crust.
Experiment with toppings: Beyond traditional pretzel salt, try adding sesame seeds, coarse sea salt, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Creative twists

This recipe is easily adaptable! You can incorporate flavors like jalapeño cheese for spice, or even make a sweet version by adding cinnamon and sugar for a dessert option. If you want to keep it vegetarian, ensure the cheese sauce uses plant-based cheese alternatives. Also, try different types of ales or lagers in the cheese sauce for enhanced flavor complexity.

Your questions answered

How long does this take to make?

Making these pretzel knots takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, but much of that time involves waiting for the dough to rise.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them in a freezer bag for longer preservation. Always remember to reheat them thoroughly before serving!