Save 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 first served this pretzel wreath dip ring at a holiday party and it was an instant hit with friends and family alike.
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 and top pretzels:
- 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 the 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.
Save This appetizer always brings my family together, evoking warm memories of holidays spent sharing good food and laughter.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the dip. The wreath can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving. Try adding chopped artichokes to the spinach dip for a twist.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Measuring cups and spoons Large pot Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Small ovenproof bowl Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs. May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities. Always check individual product labels if concerned about allergens.
Save This pretzel wreath dip ring is the perfect festive appetizer that combines fun presentation with delicious flavors.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I shape the pretzel dough into a wreath?
Divide the dough into small balls, then arrange them in two concentric circles on a baking sheet, leaving space in the center for the dip.
- → What is the purpose of the baking soda bath before baking?
Soaking dough pieces briefly in a baking soda bath gives the pretzels their classic chewy texture and browned crust.
- → Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
Yes, the wreath can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving to retain freshness and warmth.
- → What variations can be added to the spinach dip?
Try incorporating chopped artichokes, a pinch of cayenne, or nutmeg for added depth and flavor.
- → What tools are needed for making the dish?
You will need a large mixing bowl, baking sheet, pot for the soda bath, slotted spoon, and a small ovenproof bowl for the dip.