Save Savory biscuit sticks infused with sharp cheese, tangy dill pickles, and a golden pretzel crust are perfect for snacking or party platters. These Cheesy Pretzel Dill Pickle Biscuit Sticks make an irresistible appetizer or snack for any occasion.
I first made these biscuit sticks for a game night with friends, and they disappeared almost instantly. Their salty, cheesy bite mixed with the tang of pickle is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Granulated sugar: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): 1 cup (115 g)
- Dill pickles (finely chopped): 1/4 cup (40 g)
- Fresh dill (chopped, optional): 2 tbsp
- Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): 1/2 cup (115 g)
- Buttermilk (cold): 3/4 cup (180 ml)
- Baking soda (for pretzel coating): 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Water (for pretzel coating): 4 cups (1 L)
- Egg (beaten for egg wash): 1
- Coarse salt (pretzel or kosher): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Cut in Butter:
- Cut in cold unsalted butter using a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese & Pickles:
- Stir in cheddar cheese, chopped dill pickles, and fresh dill.
- Combine with Buttermilk:
- Add buttermilk and mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Form Dough & Cut Sticks:
- Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and pat into a rectangle about 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick. Cut into 16 strips (each about 6 inches/15 cm long, 1/2 inch/1.25 cm wide).
- Pretzel Bath:
- In medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Dip Sticks:
- Working in batches, dip each biscuit stick into baking soda solution for 10 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
- Egg Wash & Salt:
- Brush each stick with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake:
- Bake 16–18 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve:
- Cool slightly before serving.
Save Sharing these cheesy dill bites with my family always brings laughter around the table. They love dipping them in ranch while we play board games together.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, pastry blender or fork, saucepan, slotted spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, knife or dough cutter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and egg. May contain traces of other allergens depending on cheese and pickles used.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 135, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 4 g
Save Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack everyone will crave again and again.
Recipe Questions
- → What gives these sticks their pretzel-like exterior?
Dipping biscuit dough sticks in a baking soda solution before baking creates a classic pretzel-style crust.
- → Can I use different cheeses in these sticks?
Absolutely! Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or your preferred cheese for varied flavors.
- → How do I achieve a crisp texture?
Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with coarse salt, and bake until deep golden brown for the perfect crispness.
- → Are these suitable for making ahead?
Shape and freeze the sticks before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes for perfectly baked snacks.
- → What dips pair well with these sticks?
Try ranch, mustard, or warm cheese sauce for excellent dipping and flavor enhancement.
- → Are these vegetarian?
Yes, they contain dairy and eggs but no meat, making them suitable for most vegetarian diets.