The Art of Creating Perfect Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Yeast Activation Mastery

Master the precise temperature and timing needed for perfect yeast bloom and dough rise.

Dough Kneading Excellence

Develop proper gluten structure through correct kneading technique for ideal pretzel texture.

Filling Distribution Technique

Learn to evenly distribute jalapeño cheddar filling while maintaining structural integrity.

Twisting Perfection

Master the art of creating uniform, attractive twists that hold filling securely.

Alkaline Bath Process

Perfect the baking soda bath technique for authentic pretzel flavor and golden crust.

Professional Pretzel Making Secrets for Perfect Jalapeño Cheddar Twists

Dough Temperature: Ensure water is exactly 110°F - too hot kills yeast, too cool won't activate it.

Filling Security: Seal edges thoroughly to prevent cheese leakage during baking process.

Heat Control: Adjust jalapeño quantity and remove seeds to customize spice level perfectly.

Baking Soda Bath: Don't skip this step - it creates the distinctive pretzel flavor and texture.

Storage Strategy: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated in 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting - pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents.

Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists with Sea Salt Finish

Name: Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists with Sea Salt Finish
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12 pretzel twists
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Pretzel Dough:; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; For the Jalapeño Cheddar Filling:; 3 fresh jalapeños, finely diced; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Baking Soda Bath:; 10 cups water; 2/3 cup baking soda; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; For the Egg Wash:; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; For the Topping:; 3 tablespoons coarse pretzel salt; 1 tablespoon flaked sea salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; For the Cheese Drizzle:; 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

These irresistible jalapeño cheddar pretzel twists combine the classic comfort of soft pretzels with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Featuring fresh jalapeños, sharp aged cheddar cheese, and a perfect chewy texture, these golden-brown twists are finished with coarse sea salt and served warm. The combination of spicy peppers, melted cheese, and traditional pretzel dough creates an addictive snack that's perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you crave something extraordinary. Each twist delivers the perfect balance of heat, cheese, and that distinctive pretzel flavor that makes them impossible to resist.

Prep Time

45 Minutes

Cook Time

15 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Pretzel Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

2 teaspoons kosher salt

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Jalapeño Cheddar Filling:

3 fresh jalapeños, finely diced

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Baking Soda Bath:

10 cups water

2/3 cup baking soda

1 tablespoon brown sugar

For the Egg Wash:

1 large egg

1 tablespoon water

For the Topping:

3 tablespoons coarse pretzel salt

1 tablespoon flaked sea salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Cheese Drizzle:

1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Spicy Elements:

2 jalapeños, thinly sliced for garnish

1 serrano pepper, minced (optional)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Dipping Sauces:

1/2 cup beer cheese sauce

1/4 cup spicy mustard

1/4 cup ranch dressing

2 tablespoons honey

For the Flour Dusting:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon cornmeal

For Special Equipment:

Stand mixer with dough hook

Large pot for boiling

Slotted spoon

Baking sheets

Parchment paper

Instructions

Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water, let bloom for 5 minutes until foamy.

Combine flour and salt in stand mixer bowl with dough hook attachment.

Add yeast mixture and melted butter to flour, mix on low speed.

Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare jalapeño cheddar filling by mixing all filling ingredients.

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.

Dice jalapeños finely, removing seeds for less heat if desired.

Mix shredded cheeses with jalapeños until evenly distributed.

Preheat oven to 425°F and line baking sheets with parchment.

Prepare baking soda bath by boiling water with baking soda and brown sugar.

Punch down risen dough and divide into 12 equal portions.

Roll each portion into 18-inch rope on lightly floured surface.

Flatten each rope to 3-inch width using rolling pin.

Spread jalapeño cheddar mixture along center of each flattened rope.

Fold edges over filling and pinch to seal completely.

Twist each filled rope into spiral shape, sealing ends.

Let shaped twists rest for 10 minutes before boiling.

Boil each twist in baking soda bath for 30 seconds per side.

Remove with slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheets.

Beat egg with water and brush over each pretzel twist.

Sprinkle generously with pretzel salt mixture while egg wash is wet.

Add extra jalapeño slices on top for garnish if desired.

Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.

Rotate pans halfway through for even browning.

Remove from oven and brush with melted butter immediately.

Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Prepare cheese sauce by melting ingredients together until smooth.

Serve warm pretzel twists with assorted dipping sauces.

Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists with Sea Salt Finish

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Creating Perfect Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists

Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzel Twists with Sea Salt Finish

Ingredients

Instructions