Pretzels are a classic snack that have been enjoyed for centuries. Their signature flavor comes from a simple combination of ingredients – flour, yeast, salt, and water. While pretzels are delicious on their own, many people like to add toppings to enhance the flavor or give them more texture and crunch. Here is an overview of some of the most popular pretzel toppings and dipping sauces.
Classic Pretzel Toppings
Some of the simplest pretzel toppings are classic salt and butter. These let the pretzel’s flavor shine while adding a bit of enhancement.
Salt
Salting pretzels is a must for authentic pretzel flavor. The salt enhances the taste and also gives them an iconic pretzel appearance. Pretzels are often quickly dipped in a water and baking soda solution before baking. Then coarse sea salt or pretzel salt is sprinkled on top. The baking soda helps the salt stick to the pretzel exterior resulting in a crunchy, salty topping.
Butter
Melted butter is another popular way to top pretzels before eating them. Brushing the pretzels with melted butter or margarine adds a layer of rich, savory flavor. Salted butter provides an extra boost. Some coated butter pretzel recipes call for topping them with a butter and Parmesan or garlic mixture.
Sweet Pretzel Toppings
While salt enhances pretzels’ baked flavor, sweet toppings transform them into a dessert. Some sweet pretzel topping ideas include:
Cinnamon Sugar
Coating pretzels in melted butter then rolling them in a cinnamon sugar mixture turns them into a sweet treat. The cinnamon and sugar add warmth and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pretzel’s flavor.
Chocolate
Drizzling, dipping or completely covering pretzels in chocolate takes them to a decadent level. Dark, milk or white chocolate or chocolate-hazelnut spreads all make delicious pretzel toppings. Melted chocolate or chocolate sauce can be used to dip or drizzle over the top. Or pretzels can be completely coated in melted chocolate for chocolate covered pretzels.
Caramel
The sweet, buttery flavor of caramel makes an indulgent pretzel topping. Like chocolate, caramel sauce can be used for dipping or drizzling over the top. Or pretzels can be submerged in melted caramel for a thicker coating.
Sprinkles
For a fun, colorful twist, coat pretzels in melted white chocolate, dark chocolate or milk chocolate then top with festive sprinkles or decorations. This gives a whimsical look for holidays or parties.
Savory Pretzel Toppings
Pretzels aren’t just for snacking – they also make the perfect complement to a variety of meals. Here are some savory pretzel topping ideas:
Cheese
Melted cheese is one of the most popular pretzel toppings. Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, pepper jack, and other melted cheeses all pair well with pretzels due to their contrast of salty and creamy. Cheese sauce is also delicious for dipping.
Mustard
The tang of mustard combined with pretzels’ saltiness makes an ideal flavor combination. Yellow mustard, honey mustard, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard and other varieties all work well as dips.
Pizza Toppings
Pretzels are sometimes used as an alternative crust for mini pizzas. Toppings like marinara sauce, cheese, pepperoni, veggies and other pizza toppings can be piled high on top of a pretzel crust for a delicious pizza-pretzel hybrid.
Unique Pretzel Topping Combinations
In addition to classic pretzel toppings, creative combinations can also enhance pretzels’ flavor. Some unique ideas include:
Salty and Sweet
For a flavor fusion, try topping salted pretzels with sweet ingredients. Salted caramel or chocolate drizzle, peanut butter chips, coconut flakes, crushed candy bars and honey are some options.
Spicy
Spicy toppings like buffalo sauce, jalapeños, Sriracha and chili powder add heat and a bold flavor contrast. This pairs nicely with pretzels’ baked, salty taste.
Savory Mix-ins
Pretzels can be taken to another level by mixing in savory toppings before baking. Ideas include shredded cheese, bacon bits, herbs, garlic powder, everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds baked right into the pretzel dough.
Fresh Toppings
For fun texture, top baked pretzels with fresh add-ons like guacamole, salsa, olive tapenade, fig jam or parsley. The cooling crunch of fresh toppings balances the warmth of freshly baked pretzels.
Dip it: Pretzel Dipping Sauces
Dipping sauces are one of the most popular ways to eat pretzels. The pretzel’s shape makes it perfect for holding and dunking. Here are some delicious pretzel dip ideas:
Classic Pretzel Dips
| Dipping Sauce | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Beer Cheese Dip | Beer, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, garlic |
| Spicy Mustard Dip | Dijon mustard, honey, sriracha |
| Queso Dip | Cheese, tomatoes, chilies |
Sweet Dips
| Dipping Sauce | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Sauce | Melted chocolate, cream |
| Cookie Dough Dip | Cookie dough, cream cheese, vanilla |
| Caramel Sauce | Caramel, butter, cream |
Fruit Dips
| Dipping Sauce | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Dip | Whipped cream, cream cheese, strawberries |
| Raspberry Dipping Sauce | Raspberries, sugar, lemon, water |
| Orange Cream Dip | Whipped cream, cream cheese, orange juice |
Conclusion
Pretzels offer the perfect base for a wide range of sweet and savory toppings. From classic salt to unexpected fruit dips, the options are endless for customizing pretzels to your taste. The next time you bake up a batch of pretzels, get creative with fun new toppings and dipping sauces.