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- 1 ½ cups warm water - 1 packet active dry yeast - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar - 4 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 2-3 jalapeños, finely chopped - 1 large egg (for egg wash) - Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling) To make Air Fryer Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Bites, gather your ingredients first. Fresh ingredients are key for great taste. You need warm water to activate the yeast. Aim for a temperature between 110°F and 115°F. The packet of active dry yeast helps your dough rise. The granulated sugar feeds the yeast, making it frothy. All-purpose flour forms the base of the dough. It gives the pretzel bites that perfect chewiness. Salt adds flavor. Baking soda is crucial for that classic pretzel taste. Sharp cheddar cheese gives a rich, cheesy flavor. Jalapeños add heat and flavor. Adjust the number based on your spice preference. You’ll also need an egg for the wash. This gives the pretzel bites a shiny finish. Finally, coarse sea salt adds a nice crunch on top. These ingredients come together to create a delightful snack that’s warm and cheesy. Start by combining 1 ½ cups of warm water (110°F to 115°F), 1 packet of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Stir gently to mix. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step is key. You want the mixture to get frothy. This shows that the yeast is alive and ready to work. Once your yeast is activated, add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour. Now, it’s time to make these bites special. Flatten the dough slightly. Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2-3 finely chopped jalapeños. Knead the dough again until the cheese and jalapeños are evenly mixed throughout. This adds flavor and a little kick! Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel. Set it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rising time is crucial. It makes the pretzel bites light and fluffy. After the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6 inches long. Cut these ropes into bite-sized pieces. This is where you create the fun shapes for your pretzel bites. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the water. This boiling process is important. It gives the pretzel bites that classic chewy texture and brown color. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush each pretzel bite with a beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Place the bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket for even cooking. Enjoy the aroma as they cook! To get the right texture, knead your dough well. Kneading helps develop gluten. This makes the dough smooth and stretchy. Aim for about five minutes of kneading. You can tell it's ready when it feels soft and springs back. Proofing is just as key. Let the dough rise in a warm spot. A good place is near a sunny window. Cover it with a towel to keep it warm. Wait until it doubles in size. This can take about one hour. You can customize your pretzel bites easily. For more cheese flavor, add extra sharp cheddar. If you love spice, toss in more jalapeños. Start with one jalapeño and taste the dough. You can always add more if you want heat. If you prefer a milder taste, use fewer jalapeños. You can also mix in other cheeses. Pepper jack adds a nice kick. Mozzarella gives a creamy texture without heat. To cook your pretzel bites evenly, shake the air fryer basket halfway through. This helps every side get that golden brown color. Check for doneness by looking for a rich golden hue. If they look pale, they need more time. After cooking, let them cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle and enhances the flavor. Enjoy with your favorite dip for a tasty treat! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for fun flavors. Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mozzarella adds a mild, creamy texture. Other cheeses like gouda or fontina also work well. Mix and match to find your favorite. Want more heat? Add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also use different peppers, such as serrano or habanero. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. This way, each bite can be just how you like it. If you need a gluten-free choice, use gluten-free all-purpose flour. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour have good options. Make sure the baking soda is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites! To keep your pretzel bites fresh, let them cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer. Wrap each pretzel bite in plastic wrap before freezing. This helps prevent freezer burn. To reheat pretzel bites, use your air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites in the basket for about 5 minutes. You can also use the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes. This makes them warm and slightly crispy again. When stored properly, pretzel bites last for 3 days in the fridge. In the freezer, they can last for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them well to keep them tasty. Enjoy your pretzel bites fresh or reheated! Yes, you can make the dough ahead. After kneading, place it in a bowl and cover it. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before shaping. Look for a rich golden color on the bites. They should feel puffy and firm to the touch. If they are still soft or pale, give them a few more minutes in the air fryer. Yes, you can use a regular oven. Preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. These pretzel bites can be spicy, depending on the jalapeños you use. Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level. You can also remove the seeds for milder bites. Serve your pretzel bites with a variety of dips. Mustard, cheese sauce, or ranch dressing work great. For a twist, try spicy aioli or a tangy salsa. You now have a clear guide to making tasty cheese and jalapeño pretzel bites. I covered all the steps, from mixing the dough to air frying the bites. You have tips for perfect texture, flavor variations, and storage. Enjoy customizing this recipe to your taste. These bites will be a hit at any gathering. Prepare for the compliments! With practice, you can master this fun snack. Dive in and make your kitchen smell amazing!

Air Fryer Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Bites

Satisfy your snack cravings with these delicious Air Fryer Jalapeno Cheddar Pretzel Bites! Perfectly chewy and bursting with cheese and spice, this recipe is easy to make and a crowd-pleaser. With simple steps from dough to air fryer, you'll have a warm, golden snack ready in no time. Click to explore the full recipe and impress your friends and family at your next gathering! #JalapenoPretzelBites #AirFryerRecipes #CheddarCheese #SnackIdeas
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

2-3 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)

1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

    Make the Dough: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

      Incorporate Cheese and Jalapeños: Flatten the dough slightly and incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños, kneading until evenly distributed.

        Rise the Dough: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

          Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope (about 6 inches long) and then cut into bite-sized pieces.

            Prepare Baking Soda Solution: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop in the pretzel bites for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain.

              Air Frying Time: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush each pretzel bite with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches).

                Cook: Air fry the pretzel bites for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and puffy. Check and shake the basket halfway through cooking for even browning.

                  Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve warm in a basket lined with parchment paper, with a side of spicy mustard or cheese dip for an irresistible treat!