Irresistible Sweet Potato Pretzel Rolls with Easy Beer Cheese

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Picture this: soft, pillowy pretzel rolls with a hint of earthy sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes, paired with a creamy, slightly tangy beer cheese sauce that’s just the right amount of indulgent. These Irresistible Sweet Potato Pretzel Rolls with Easy Beer Cheese are a game-changer for any gathering, snack craving, or comfort food fix. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become your go-to for impressing guests or treating yourself!

It all started with my quest to combine two of my favorite things—pretzels and sweet potatoes. I thought, “Why not bring them together in one glorious bite?” And let me tell you, the result was pure magic. These rolls are soft, chewy, and have just the right amount of sweetness to balance the slightly salty crust. The beer cheese? Oh, it’s creamy, packed with flavor, and the perfect complement.

If you’ve never made pretzel dough at home, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions that make the process a breeze. Plus, the addition of sweet potato adds a unique twist that sets these rolls apart from the usual pretzel recipes. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just need a comforting snack, this recipe is the one you’ll want to save forever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Combination of Sweet and Savory: The roasted sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty goodness of pretzel rolls.
  • Easy Beer Cheese Sauce: Forget complicated cheese sauces—this one comes together in minutes and is deliciously creamy and full of flavor.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a bunch of hungry kids or impressing your friends at a dinner party, these rolls always get rave reviews.
  • No Fancy Ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already, and sweet potatoes are super easy to find year-round.
  • Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s like taking a comforting soft pretzel and giving it a flavor upgrade—perfect for cozy evenings.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of sweet potato, which adds a unique texture and flavor. The beer cheese sauce? It’s creamy, tangy, and has just the right amount of sharpness to make these rolls irresistible. Plus, I’ve tested this recipe countless times to make sure it’s foolproof. You won’t believe how easy it is to achieve that perfect golden crust and fluffy interior!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack big flavors into each bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, these ingredients come together beautifully.

  • Sweet Potatoes: Roasted and mashed for natural sweetness and color. Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for this recipe.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise and creates that soft, chewy texture.
  • Warm Water: For activating the yeast (not too hot—around 110°F is perfect).
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough. You can also substitute with bread flour for a slightly firmer texture.
  • Salt: Essential for flavoring both the dough and the pretzel crust.
  • Baking Soda: Creates the classic pretzel crust when boiled in water.
  • Egg: Used for the egg wash to achieve that golden sheen.
  • Beer: Adds depth and tang to the cheese sauce. Go for a lager or pale ale for a balanced flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for the beer cheese sauce, but feel free to experiment with other types.
  • Butter: A touch of unsalted butter adds richness to the cheese sauce.
  • Milk: Helps make the beer cheese sauce creamy and smooth.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the beer cheese sauce.
  • Garlic Powder: For a hint of savory depth in the cheese sauce.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a quick list of the tools you’ll need to make these irresistible pretzel rolls and beer cheese:

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining and kneading the dough. A stand mixer with a dough hook is optional but helpful.
  • Baking Sheet: To bake the pretzel rolls to golden perfection.
  • Pot: For boiling the pretzel rolls in a baking soda solution before baking.
  • Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash for that shiny crust.
  • Small Saucepan: For whipping up the beer cheese sauce.
  • Kitchen Scale: Optional, but great for precision when measuring ingredients.

You don’t need fancy equipment to nail this recipe. I’ve made these rolls using just a bowl and my hands, so don’t worry if you’re light on kitchen tools!

Preparation Method

sweet potato pretzel rolls preparation steps

  1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and roast them for 40-50 minutes until tender. Let them cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash until smooth.
  2. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Make the Dough: Add the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined, then knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Boil the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully drop each roll into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove and place them back on the baking sheet.
  7. Bake: Brush the rolls with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Prepare the Beer Cheese: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk and beer, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the mustard, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar until melted.
  9. Serve: Let the pretzel rolls cool slightly, then serve warm with the beer cheese sauce on the side.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

  • Perfect Dough Texture: The dough should be soft, slightly tacky, but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it comes together.
  • Boiling for the Win: Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it’s what gives pretzel rolls their signature chewy crust and golden color.
  • Beer Selection: Choose a beer that’s not overly bitter. A lager or mild ale works best for a balanced cheese sauce.
  • Cheese Melting Tip: Grate your cheese finely to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls in the last few minutes to avoid drying them out. They should be golden brown and soft inside.

Variations & Adaptations

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the rolls and a gluten-free beer for the cheese sauce.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the beer cheese for a little kick.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Replace the egg wash with almond milk and use vegan cheese and plant-based milk for the sauce.
  • Seasonal Add-Ins: During fall, try adding cinnamon and nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal flavor.

My personal favorite? Swap the beer for apple cider in the cheese sauce—it’s perfect for autumn gatherings!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These pretzel rolls are best served warm, freshly baked from the oven. Pair them with the beer cheese sauce in a small bowl for easy dipping. They also go great with a light salad or a hearty soup like broccoli cheddar or tomato bisque.

To store leftovers, let the rolls cool completely and place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

If you want to freeze them, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each pretzel roll is approximately 180 calories, while the beer cheese sauce adds roughly 150 calories per serving. The sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making these rolls a slightly healthier indulgence.

The cheese sauce provides protein and calcium, while beer adds depth of flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can skip the coarse salt on top of the rolls.

Conclusion

There’s just something magical about biting into a warm, soft pretzel roll, especially when it’s infused with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and paired with a perfectly creamy beer cheese sauce. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s comforting, unique, and always a hit with family and friends.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Try out variations, swap in different cheeses for the sauce, or even experiment with store-bought dough if you’re short on time. I’d love to hear how you put your spin on it—leave a comment below or share your photos!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and give these Irresistible Sweet Potato Pretzel Rolls with Easy Beer Cheese a try. You won’t regret it!

FAQs

Can I make these pretzel rolls without sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can! Simply omit the sweet potatoes and adjust the flour slightly if needed to get the right dough consistency.

What type of beer works best for the cheese sauce?

A lager or pale ale is ideal for a balanced flavor. Avoid overly bitter beers like IPAs.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature before boiling and baking.

Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use pre-made pizza or bread dough as a shortcut, but the sweet potato flavor will be missing.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting lumpy?

Make sure to whisk the flour and butter mixture thoroughly before adding the milk and beer. Grate the cheese finely so it melts smoothly.

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sweet potato pretzel rolls - featured image

Irresistible Sweet Potato Pretzel Rolls with Easy Beer Cheese


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x

Description

Soft, pillowy pretzel rolls with a hint of earthy sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes, paired with creamy, tangy beer cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, roasted and mashed
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 cup beer (lager or pale ale)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and roast them for 40-50 minutes until tender. Let them cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash until smooth.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Add the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined, then knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully drop each roll into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove and place them back on the baking sheet.
  7. Brush the rolls with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk and beer, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the mustard, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar until melted.
  9. Let the pretzel rolls cool slightly, then serve warm with the beer cheese sauce on the side.

Notes

[‘Ensure the dough is soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Add flour gradually if needed.’, ‘The baking soda bath is essential for the pretzel crust.’, ‘Grate cheese finely for a smooth beer cheese sauce.’, ‘Choose a mild beer like lager or pale ale for balanced flavor.’]

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll with beer che
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 40
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 10

Keywords: pretzel rolls, sweet potato, beer cheese, appetizer, comfort food, snack, party food

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