Save It A stunning centerpiece featuring soft pretzels arranged in a tree shape, garnished with an assortment of savory bites—perfect for sharing at parties or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- Pretzels: 500 g all-purpose flour 7 g instant dry yeast 1 ½ tsp salt 1 tbsp sugar 300 ml warm water 40 g unsalted butter, melted 3 tbsp baking soda (for boiling) Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Savory Accompaniments: 150 g Emmental or Gruyère cheese, cubed 150 g cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami), sliced (optional for vegetarians) 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 cucumber, sliced 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved 100 g green olives 100 g baby radishes Fresh herbs (parsley, dill), for garnish
- Dips: 100 g Dijon mustard 100 g cream cheese 50 g honey (for honey-mustard dip, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and melted butter. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
- Step 2:
- Cover the dough and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 4:
- On a lightly floured surface, divide dough into 8–10 pieces. Roll each into a long rope (about 40 cm), then shape into pretzels.
- Step 5:
- Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Add baking soda. Briefly dip each pretzel into the simmering water for 20–30 seconds, then transfer to the baking sheet.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a rack.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the pretzels on a large wooden board or platter in the shape of a tree (arbre de vie), using the pretzels as branches.
- Step 8:
- Artfully arrange cheese, cured meats (if using), vegetables, olives, and radishes among and around the pretzels to create a lush, colorful tree effect. Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Step 9:
- Serve with small bowls of Dijon mustard, cream cheese, and optional honey-mustard dip.
Save It Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional) Pot for boiling Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Sharp knife Large wooden board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk (butter, cheese), possible mustard Cured meats may contain nitrates/nitrites Always check ingredient labels for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 Total Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 48 g Protein: 12 g
Save It Enjoy this beautiful and interactive appetizer that brings flavor and fun to your gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you shape the pretzels for the tree?
Roll the dough into long ropes about 40 cm long and shape each into traditional pretzel loops, then arrange them on the platter to form the branches and trunk of the tree.
- → What is the purpose of boiling pretzels in baking soda water?
Boiling pretzels in a baking soda solution creates their characteristic chewy crust and deep brown color when baked.
- → Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, then shaped and baked shortly before serving.
- → What vegetarian options are included in the platter?
Cheese varieties like Emmental or Gruyère, fresh vegetables such as bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, radishes, and fresh herbs provide rich flavors without meat.
- → What dips complement the platter?
Classic dips include Dijon mustard, cream cheese, and a honey-mustard blend that balance the savory and slightly sweet elements.
- → Is there a way to make this vegan-friendly?
Substitute plant-based butter in the dough and omit cheese and cured meats, possibly adding nuts or dried fruits for variety.