# What You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon instant yeast
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 2/3 cup cream soda, room temperature
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Filling
07 - 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Pretzel Bath & Topping
08 - 4 cups water
09 - 2 tablespoons baking soda
10 - 1 large egg, beaten
11 - 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt until fully blended.
02 - Add cream soda and melted unsalted butter to the bowl. Mix until the ingredients form a rough, shaggy dough.
03 - Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in volume.
05 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Punch down the risen dough and divide evenly into 24 pieces.
07 - Flatten each dough piece into a rectangle. Place a small mound of shredded cheddar cheese in the center, then roll tightly into a stick, pinching edges to seal.
08 - In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add baking soda carefully.
09 - Dip each filled stick into the boiling baking soda solution for 20 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
10 - Brush each stick with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
11 - Bake for 16–18 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
12 - Allow the baked sticks to cool slightly before serving.
