There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling warm, gooey Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots out of the oven. Imagine the tantalizing scent of melted butter mingling with the rich aroma of garlic and basil wafting through your kitchen—it’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
I first discovered this delightful twist on traditional pretzels while experimenting with pantry staples on a rainy afternoon. The love for homemade treats became irresistible as I twisted each knot, filling the dough with a generous layer of fresh pesto and a melty mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a cozy gathering, these pretzel knots are not only crowd-pleasers but also surprisingly easy to make—no baking expertise required! So, whether you’re seeking an impressive party dish or just a fun family project, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy, garlicky goodness. Your taste buds are in for an unforgettable treat!
Why are Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots unbeatable?
Flavor Explosion: These pretzel knots burst with rich garlic, savory cheese, and the herbal goodness of pesto, making every bite irresistible.
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can conquer this recipe with straightforward steps and common ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or movie nights, they’re sure to satisfy everyone, from kids to adults.
Versatile Treat: Serve them fresh out of the oven or as leftovers; they taste amazing either way.
Great for Dipping: Pair them with extra garlic butter or your favorite sauce for a delightful twist!
Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm water – 1 3/4 cups, helps activate the yeast for a light texture.
• Honey – 1 tablespoon, adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Active dry yeast – 2 1/4 teaspoons, essential for that perfect rise.
• Salted butter – 1 stick (1/2 cup), melted for richness in the dough.
• All-purpose flour – 4 1/2 cups, the base for a deliciously chewy pretzel.
For the Filling
• Basil pesto – 1/3 cup, gives them the signature pesto flavor that makes these pretzel knots extraordinary.
• Shredded cheddar – 2 cups, adds creamy cheesiness to each knot.
• Shredded mozzarella – 1 cup, melts beautifully for that stretchy cheese effect.
For the Topping
• Egg – 1, beaten, for a lovely golden glaze on the pretzel knots.
• Sesame seeds – 1/4 cup, adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For the Garlic Butter
• Butter – 6 tablespoons, melts into a savory delight for brushing.
• Garlic – 1-2 cloves, chopped, infuses flavor in the butter for a rich aroma.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, enhances flavor and adds a gourmet touch.
• Chopped fresh thyme and basil oregano or parsley – 2 tablespoons, herby freshness that complements the garlic.
Grab these ingredients and let your kitchen fill with the incredible aroma of Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots—a warm, comforting treat that promises to impress!
How to Make Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots
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Combine the warm water, honey, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly on top, which indicates the yeast is activated.
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Add the melted butter and flour, mixing on medium speed until the dough is smooth and starts pulling away from the sides, about 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust the texture with additional flour or water as needed, then cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly 1-2 hours.
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Preheat your oven to 425°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
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Roll the dough onto a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick (16×14 inches). Spread a luscious layer of pesto over the dough, then sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Fold in half, pressing to adhere, and cut into 16 strips. Twist each strip into a loose knot.
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Brush the knots with the beaten egg, sprinkling each with sesame seeds and coarse salt. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and irresistible.
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Prepare the garlic butter by melting the butter and garlic together until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan and herbs. Spoon this savory garlic butter over the hot knots as soon as they come out of the oven.
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Serve warm or at room temperature; warm is best, especially with extra garlic butter for dipping!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots
Room Temperature: Enjoy your pretzel knots warm or at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store them loosely covered with a kitchen towel to keep them soft.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the knots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that freshly baked taste.
Freezer: Freeze the pretzel knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating: To enjoy once frozen or refrigerated, reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm and golden. Brush with extra garlic butter for a delicious touch!
What to Serve with Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots?
These delightful pretzel knots are perfect for creating a memorable meal that shines bright with textures and flavors.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of vibrant tomato soup provides a classic pairing, perfect for dipping those cheesy knots.
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Crunchy Salad: Toss together a refreshing garden salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pretzels.
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Savory Charcuterie Board: Combine cured meats, nuts, and a variety of cheeses for a shareable platter that elevates your knots into a gourmet snack.
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Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy, savory fries with a sprinkle of Parmesan are a fantastic complement, adding extra crunch to your meal.
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Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle some flavored olive oil infused with fresh herbs for dipping, bringing extra freshness to every bite.
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Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip blended with herbs not only adds creaminess but also balances the savory flavors of the knots.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and fizzy, this drink adds a bright pop of flavor that perfectly contrasts with the richness of the pretzel knots.
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Chocolate Fondue: End with something sweet! Dip fresh fruits or leftover knots into warm chocolate, offering a decadent twist to your meal.
Expert Tips for Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots
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Knead Well: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This creates that perfect chewy texture in your pretzel knots.
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Check Yeast Activation: Always let the yeast mixture bubble before adding other ingredients. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive, leading to dense knots.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye while baking; the knots should be golden brown, not darker. Overbaking will make them dry instead of soft and gooey.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses or add other fillings like sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor in your Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots.
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Serve Fresh: These pretzel knots are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. If reheating, brush with a little garlic butter to bring back the moisture.
Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knot Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these pretzel knots to suit your taste!
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Herb-Infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or dill to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Transforming your pretzels into a herb garden delight will uplift the flavors immensely. A simple mix can lead to a gourmet experience! -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
This fiery addition will excite your taste buds and give an adventurous edge to every bite. Don’t be afraid to dial up the heat! -
Cheese Lovers: Use a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to amazing flavor blends, keeping each batch fresh and exciting. Trust your palate to guide you! -
Sweet Treats: Try adding a spread of Nutella or cinnamon-sugar instead of pesto for dessert knots.
These sweet knots will surprise and delight anyone with a sweet tooth, perfect for brunch or a special occasion! -
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour to make it celiac-friendly.
You’ll still enjoy a delightful texture while catering to those who need gluten-free options. Everyone can savor the joy of pretzels! -
Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
With these swaps, you can create delicious vegan pretzel knots that everyone can enjoy without compromising taste! -
Stuffed Variations: Fill the knots with toppings like cooked spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
Adding fillings will create pockets of yumminess that make each knot a delightful surprise. Explore different flavors that excite you! -
Savory Toppings: Experiment with various toppings—try everything from flaky sea salt to fresh everything bagel seasoning.
An unexpected crunch or burst of flavor on top will elevate your pretzel knots to the next level, making them stand out for any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and shape the knots up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of twisting the knots, then cover them lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before brushing with egg and baking. You’ll have warm, homemade pretzel knots ready with minimal effort—perfect for family snacks or gatherings!
Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my pretzel knots?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for warm water that’s between 100°F and 110°F to properly activate the yeast. For the flour, I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture; it gives the pretzels that delightful chewiness. Fresh basil pesto is key for a vibrant flavor—look for one made with no preservatives. When it comes to your cheeses, using high-quality shredded cheddar and mozzarella will melt beautifully and create that gooey goodness everyone loves!
What’s the best way to store leftover pretzel knots?
Very! To keep your Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer to refrigerate, they’ll last about 5 days but may lose some freshness. Just reheat them in the oven wrapped in aluminum foil for about 10 minutes at 350°F to help restore their lovely softness.
Can I freeze my Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots? How do I do it?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to enjoy these delicious knots later. First, allow the baked pretzel knots to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Transfer them into a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat directly from frozen at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
What are some common issues I might face while making pretzel knots?
Absolutely, and troubleshooting is part of the fun! One common issue is the dough being too sticky or dry. If it’s sticking to your hands and working surface, gradually add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. On the flip side, if your dough is too dry and crumbly, add a tiny bit of warm water until it’s smooth. And remember, don’t skip the yeast activation step; if it doesn’t foam and bubble, your yeast might be expired, resulting in dense, flat pretzels!
Are there any dietary considerations for Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots?
Great question! If anyone in your household has dairy allergies, you can substitute the cheeses with dairy-free versions that melt well. For a gluten-free version, you could experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour but make sure to follow a specific gluten-free dough recipe for the best results. Additionally, always check the pesto label for any hidden allergens, especially if you have friends or family with specific dietary restrictions!
Can I make these pretzel knots without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand. Start with a large bowl for mixing your water, honey, and yeast—you can use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients. Once you add the flour and butter, mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It may take a bit of elbow grease, but it’s worth it for these delightful knots!
Mouthwatering Pesto Cheese Garlic Butter Soft Pretzel Knots
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the warm water, honey, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly on top.
- Add the melted butter and flour, mixing on medium speed until the dough is smooth and starts pulling away from the sides, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough onto a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick (16x14 inches). Spread a layer of pesto over the dough, then sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Fold in half, pressing to adhere, and cut into 16 strips. Twist each strip into a loose knot.
- Brush the knots with the beaten egg, sprinkling each with sesame seeds and coarse salt. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the garlic butter by melting the butter and garlic together until fragrant. Stir in the parmesan and herbs.
- Spoon this savory garlic butter over the hot knots as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Serve warm or at room temperature; warm is best with extra garlic butter for dipping!