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Soft Gluten-Free Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

soft gluten-free cheese-stuffed pretzel bites - featured image

Soft, chewy gluten-free pretzel bites stuffed with melted cheese and topped with a sweet brown sugar glaze. Perfect for snacks, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 280g) gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp or 7g) instant yeast
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2/3 cup (160g) baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 oz (115g) shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) milk or dairy-free alternative
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a medium bowl. Stir lightly and let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour and salt. Add olive oil and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, adding flour if too sticky. Dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Shred cheese and set aside.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda carefully.
  7. Punch down risen dough and divide into 1.5-inch balls. Flatten each ball, place about 1 tsp cheese in center, pinch dough closed, and roll into smooth balls.
  8. Boil pretzel bites in baking soda water for 30 seconds using a slotted spoon. Remove and place on prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
  10. While baking, melt brown sugar, butter, and milk in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla if using.
  11. Brush warm glaze over pretzel bites as soon as they come out of the oven. Transfer to a cooling rack to set.

Notes

If dough is too dry or crumbly, add water 1 tsp at a time. For shinier pretzels, optionally brush with egg wash before baking. Baking soda bath is essential for chewy crust and color. Cheese filling should be moderate to avoid bursting. Dough can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. Freeze baked pretzel bites up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free, pretzel bites, cheese-stuffed, brown sugar glaze, snack, easy recipe, family-friendly