Description

Smoked brisket and beer cheese pretzel bombs are the bold, cheesy, snack-sized bites your party table’s been missing. Soft, golden pretzel dough is wrapped around smoky shredded brisket and melty beer cheese, then baked to perfection. Perfect for game day, holiday spreads, or cozy nights in—these hearty little flavor bombs will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

2 cups smoked brisket, shredded
1 ½ cups beer cheese (store-bought or homemade)

For the Dough:

1 batch soft pretzel dough (store-bought or homemade, or substitute pizza dough for a shortcut)

For the Pretzel Boil:

10 cups water
⅔ cup baking soda

For the Topping:

Coarse kosher salt
Melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare Dough:
If using homemade dough, prepare it according to recipe instructions and allow it to rise. If using store-bought, bring it to room temperature before working with it.
Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Assemble Pretzel Bombs:
Divide dough into 12–14 equal pieces. Flatten each into a disc. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of brisket and 1 tablespoon of beer cheese into the center. Pinch the dough to seal and roll into a ball. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Boil the Dough Balls:
In a large pot, bring 10 cups water and ⅔ cup baking soda to a low boil. Working in batches, gently lower each pretzel bomb into the water and boil for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
Bake:
Sprinkle pretzel bombs with coarse salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Finish & Serve:
Brush warm pretzel bombs with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with extra beer cheese for dipping!

Notes

Make Ahead: You can assemble and boil the pretzel bombs ahead of time. Store in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
Freezer Friendly: After boiling, freeze on a tray. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Meat Swaps: No brisket? Try pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, or chopped bacon.
Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar, gouda, or even pimento cheese all work great.
Short on Time? Use store-bought pizza dough as a time-saving alternative!