A Fresh Take on Tailgating with Infused Cheese Dip and Pretzel Bites

As the days grow shorter and the buzz of the upcoming sports season fills the air, there’s no better time to elevate your tailgating snacks. This year, why not bring something unique to the table? Pretzel Bites paired with a creamy, cannabis infused cheese dip offers the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, sure to impress your fellow fans.

Tailgating is about community and sharing good times with good people. The same things that make social cannabis consumption so enjoyable. These pretzel bites are ideal for snacking and the dip’s herbal garnish and enhancement adds a refreshing twist that’s perfect for late summer gatherings and mellow vibes, setting the tone for a laid-back yet lively event.

Garnishing with fresh herbs like chives and parsley not only brings a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of the cheese and the earthy notes of bud that come from homemade butter. The subtle onion-like flavor of chives and the bright, and notes of parsley create a balanced contrast to the richness of the cheese and cannabis infusion, making this dip a standout dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Pretzel Bites:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water
• ⅔ cup baking soda
• 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tbsp water
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

For the Cannabis-Infused Cheese Dip:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp cannabis-infused butter (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions:

For the Pretzel Bites:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
6. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, about 1-inch in diameter. Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces.
8. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water, a few at a time, for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
10. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.

For the Cannabis-Infused Cheese Dip:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the regular butter and cannabis-infused butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, continuing to stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in the sour cream to add creaminess.
6. Remove from heat and transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
7. Garnish the dip with freshly chopped chives or parsley before serving.
8. Serve warm with the pretzel bites.

As we transition from summer to fall, the combination of warm, soft pretzel bites with a cool, herb-garnished dip strikes just the right balance. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light enough to enjoy under the warm, late summer sun. Whether you’re tailgating at the stadium, hosting a watch party at home, or simply enjoying a weekend with friends, this dish brings a fresh, sophisticated flair to your spread.

This recipe is not just for tailgating—it’s versatile enough to be served at any gathering. The cheese dip can be adjusted in potency, making it easy to cater to different preferences. Plus, the dip itself can be used with other snacks like fresh veggies or chips, offering endless possibilities.

Cheers to good food, great friends, and an unforgettable start to the season!