Soft Pretzel Rolls with Warm Cheese Dip

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If a soft pretzel and a dinner roll had a baby and dunked it in molten cheddar, you’d get this dangerously addictive snack: Homemade Soft Pretzel Rolls with Creamy Cheese Dip.

Whether you're prepping for a Father’s Day cookout, hosting a laid-back 4th of July party, or just feeding the hungry crowd that always shows up unannounced at your house—this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Season

It all started at a summer family reunion where my cousin Tom showed up with what he claimed were “just some store-bought pretzels and cheese.” They vanished in minutes.

I knew I had to make my own version, from scratch—with better texture, fresher flavor, and a velvety cheese dip that didn’t come from a foil pouch.

This version is golden, soft, salty perfection—perfect for game day, cozy winter movie nights, spring brunches, and summer BBQs.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 10–12 pretzel rolls

🥨 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pretzel Dough:

1½ cups warm water (110°F / warm to the touch)
1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

8 cups water
⅓ cup baking soda

For Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

For the Cheese Dip:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a flavor boost

🔪 Essential Kitchen Tools

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with dough hook (or strong arms for hand kneading)
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Large pot (for soda bath)
Slotted spoon or spider strainer
Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Pastry brush
Medium saucepan (for cheese dip)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: Pretzel Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Stir and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be dead—start fresh.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until the dough comes together into a shaggy ball.

If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 6 to 7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Shape dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Tip: A warm oven (turned off) with the light on works great.

Step 4: Divide and Shape

Punch down the dough. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 10 to 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a tight ball by cupping your hand and moving it in a circular motion on the counter.

Step 5: Prepare the Soda Bath

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Slowly (carefully!) add ⅓ cup baking soda—it will foam.

Step 6: Boil the Pretzel Rolls

Gently place 2–3 dough balls into the boiling water. Boil each for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through with a slotted spoon.
Remove and place on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining rolls.

Step 7: Add Egg Wash and Salt

Brush each roll generously with beaten egg. Sprinkle coarse salt on top. This gives them a golden, glossy crust and signature salty bite.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes, or until deep golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

🧀 Step-by-Step Instructions: Cheese Dip

Step 1: Make a Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoon butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoon flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 2: Add Milk

Slowly pour in 1 cup milk, whisking until smooth. Simmer and stir for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Season

Lower the heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until melted and creamy. For extra zip, add a pinch of cayenne or a spoonful of Dijon mustard.

If dip thickens too much, whisk in a splash of warm milk to loosen it.

🌱 Ingredient Swaps & Customizations

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Skip boiling and go straight to baking.
Vegan: Substitute plant-based butter, nondairy milk, and vegan cheese. Skip egg wash—use nondairy milk for browning.
Sweet Twist: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar instead of salt. Pair with chocolate or cream cheese dip for dessert pretzel bites.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the dough. Serve with spicy pepper jack dip.
Beer Cheese Dip: Replace half the milk in the dip with your favorite ale or lager.

🍺 Serving Suggestions

Game Day Platter: Pair with cured meats, mustard, and pickles for an epic appetizer board.
Soup Sidekick: Serve alongside tomato bisque, beer cheese soup, or chicken chowder.
Mini Sandwiches: Slice rolls and stuff with ham, pulled pork, or grilled veggies.
BBQ Must-Have: Perfect for passing around during outdoor summer parties and July 4th celebrations.

❓ FAQs and Troubleshooting

Why boil the dough before baking?
The baking soda bath gelatinizes the crust, creating the chewy texture and deep golden color that defines a pretzel.

Why didn’t my dough rise?
The yeast may have been old, or your water too hot. Always proof the yeast and use water around 110°F.

Can I freeze pretzel rolls?
Yes. Freeze after baking. Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Prep the dough a day ahead and refrigerate after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Cheese dip too thick?
Whisk in warm milk a little at a time until smooth.

🧡 Conclusion + Call to Action

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, game day bash, or cozy indoor movie night, these soft pretzel rolls with melty cheese dip are the snack everyone will talk about. They’re rustic, homemade, and downright craveable.

Give these a try and let me know in the comments: what’s your go-to dip—cheddar, beer cheese, or something spicy? Don’t forget to pin it for your next party!

Other Pretzel recipes for you to enjoy

Strawberry Pretzel Salad > the ultimate no-bake dessert! A buttery, crunchy pretzel crust meets a creamy cheesecake layer and a fresh strawberry Jell-O topping.

Pretzel Brownies > combine two of the best desserts for an unbeatable good.

Hot Beer & Cheese Dip > the ultimate indulgence for those who appreciate a bit of creativity in their appetizers.

A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Season