Save Pin Savory, spicy muffin bites featuring soft pretzel dough, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy ranch flavor are perfect for snacking, parties, or game day.
I first brought these Buffalo Ranch Pretzel Muffin Balls to a family movie night and they disappeared before the film even started. The combination of soft pretzel dough with gooey, spicy filling makes them truly addictive.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp instant dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, ½ tsp salt, ¾ cup warm water
- Buffalo-Ranch Filling: ½ cup cream cheese (softened), ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp ranch dressing, 2 tbsp buffalo hot sauce, 2 green onions (finely sliced), ½ tsp garlic powder
- For Boiling: 6 cups water, ¼ cup baking soda
- Topping: 1 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp pretzel salt or coarse sea salt
Instructions
- Make Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare Filling:
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, green onions, and garlic powder in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape Balls:
- Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a disc. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of filling in the center. Pinch edges to seal and roll into a ball.
- Boil Pretzel Balls:
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add baking soda (it will foam). Working in batches, boil each ball for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Brush each ball with melted butter and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Save Pin My kids helped roll these pretzel balls and enjoyed customizing the cheese. Sharing them warm from the oven made for a memorable weekend treat.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet, parchment paper, slotted spoon, saucepan
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 115 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Serving & Variations
Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dip. Substitute mozzarella for cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor.
Save Pin Enjoy these warm with your favorite dip. They are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these pretzel balls ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared ahead and reheated in the oven to restore their soft texture and warm filling.
- → Is it possible to adjust the spice level?
Add more buffalo sauce for extra heat, or use a milder hot sauce for those who prefer less spice.
- → What type of cheese works best inside?
Cheddar brings a sharp flavor, but mozzarella or a blend can be substituted based on your preference.
- → Can I freeze the pretzel balls?
Yes, freeze after baking and reheat as needed. They maintain flavor and texture well when reheated.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all listed ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Check cheese and ranch labels for specific dietary needs.
- → What dip pairs well with these?
Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dip, or try spicy queso for an extra flavor boost.