Soft, chewy pretzels with a golden-brown crust, served with a creamy, spiced Obatzda cheese spread – a classic Bavarian beer garden treat.
30 min prep
15 min cook
8 servings
420 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 cup baking soda
1 large egg, beaten (for wash)
Coarse salt for sprinkling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz ripe Camembert or Brie, rind removed, at room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 small onion, finely grated
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp caraway seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Instructions
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let stand 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
Punch down dough; divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a 24-inch rope. Shape into a U, cross ends, twist, and press onto the bottom of the U to form a pretzel shape. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 425°F. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil; add baking soda (carefully, it will foam). Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds per side; remove with a slotted spoon and return to baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
For Obatzda: In a medium bowl, mash cream cheese, Camembert, and butter together until well combined. Stir in grated onion, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Fold in chives. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve at room temperature with warm pretzels.
Tips
For extra flavor, add 1 tablespoon of beer (like a wheat beer) to the Obatzda.
Pretzels are best served warm; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes if needed.
Obatzda can be made a day ahead; bring to room temperature before serving.