Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Buffalo Bacon Pretzel Bombs: The Ultimate Game Day Recipe


  • Total Time: 160 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pretzel bombs 1x

Description

Savory pretzel bombs filled with a creamy, spicy buffalo bacon filling. Perfect for game day or any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 10 cups water
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Coarse pretzel salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, either in a stand mixer or on a lightly floured surface, until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Combine Filling Ingredients: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Give the filling a taste and adjust the buffalo wing sauce to your liking. If you want it spicier, add a little more. If you prefer a milder flavor, add a little more cream cheese.
  7. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
  8. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
  9. Shape the Bombs: Flatten each piece of dough into a circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a generous spoonful of the buffalo bacon filling in the center of each circle.
  10. Seal the Bombs: Bring the edges of the dough up and over the filling, pinching them together to seal tightly. Make sure there are no holes, or the filling will leak out during baking. Roll the sealed dough ball gently to smooth it out.
  11. Rest the Bombs: Place the assembled pretzel bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
  12. Prepare the Bath: While the pretzel bombs are resting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda. Be careful, as it will bubble up vigorously!
  13. Boil the Bombs: Gently drop each pretzel bomb into the boiling water, one or two at a time. Boil them for 30-60 seconds per side.
  14. Return to Baking Sheet: Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzel bombs from the water and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  15. Egg Wash: Brush the top of each pretzel bomb with the beaten egg.
  16. Sprinkle with Salt: Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
  17. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 200°F (93°C).
  18. Cool and Serve: Let the pretzel bombs cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make sure your yeast is fresh for the dough to rise properly.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce in the filling to your spice preference.
  • Chilling the filling makes it easier to work with.
  • Ensure the pretzel bombs are sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking.
  • Be careful when adding baking soda to boiling water, as it will bubble up vigorously.
  • Serve with extra buffalo wing sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes