Pin This A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
I first made this wreath for a family holiday, and we loved how everyone could grab a cheesy pretzel bite right from the center.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 ¼ cups (400 g) all-purpose flour, 1 packet (7 g) instant yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Cheese Filling: 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella, ½ cup (60 g) cream cheese softened, ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pretzel Bath & Topping: ½ cup (120 g) baking soda, 8 cups (2 L) water, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash), Coarse pretzel salt for sprinkling, 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for brushing)
- Garnish: ¼ cup (4 g) fresh parsley chopped, ½ cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine flour yeast sugar and salt Add warm milk and melted butter Mix and knead until a soft smooth dough forms (about 5 7 minutes) Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes or until doubled in size
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile mix mozzarella cream cheese Parmesan chives garlic powder and black pepper in a bowl until well combined Set aside
- Step 3:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Step 4:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 24 equal pieces Flatten each piece place ~1 teaspoon cheese mixture in the center and pinch dough around filling to seal into a ball
- Step 5:
- Arrange balls in a ring shape on the prepared baking sheet touching each other to form a wreath
- Step 6:
- In a large pot bring water and baking soda to a boil Carefully lower each ball into the boiling solution for 15 20 seconds then transfer back to the baking sheet maintaining the wreath shape
- Step 7:
- Brush balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt
- Step 8:
- Bake for 18 22 minutes or until deep golden brown
- Step 9:
- Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter if desired Garnish with parsley and nestle cherry tomatoes between the pretzel balls for a festive look
- Step 10:
- Serve warm pulling apart to enjoy
Pin This This recipe always brings my family together around the table to share and enjoy the pull-apart wreath joyfully.
Notes
For extra flavor add a little Dijon mustard to the cheese filling Serve with honey mustard or spicy cheese dip
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Saucepan Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) milk eggs May contain Traces of nuts or soy (check cheese and butter labels) Always double-check ingredient labels for allergen safety
Pin This Enjoy this cheesy pretzel wreath warm for the best taste and pull-apart fun every time
Recipe Q&A
- → What gives the pretzels their signature crust?
Dipping the dough balls briefly in a baking soda solution before baking creates the classic chewy crust and glossy finish.
- → Can I substitute cheeses in the filling?
Yes, Gruyère or cheddar work well for a different but equally delicious flavor twist.
- → How do I ensure the cheese stays inside during baking?
Pinch the dough securely around the filling to seal each ball completely before boiling and baking.
- → Is it possible to prepare the dough ahead of time?
The dough can be made and left to rise in the refrigerator overnight to develop flavor and save time the next day.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
This pull-apart ring pairs nicely with honey mustard or spicy cheese dips for added flavor.
- → How do the garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes add vibrant color and a fresh contrast to the warm, buttery pretzel bites.