Smoked Brisket & Beer Cheese Pretzel Bombs

Intro:

These Smoked Brisket & Beer Cheese Pretzel Bombs are the ultimate savory snack—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and loaded with smoky, cheesy goodness. Whether served as a game day treat or a hearty appetizer, these bombs combine soft pretzel dough with rich beer cheese and tender smoked brisket for a mouthwatering bite. Thanks to the air fryer, they come out perfectly golden and require no deep-frying!

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Chill Time (for cheese): 30 minutes (optional but recommended)

Cook Time (Air Fryer): 8–10 minutes per batch

Total Time: ~1 hour (including prep and chill)

Ingredients

For the Filling:

1 cup chopped smoked brisket (cooked, leftover brisket works well)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¼ cup beer (lager or pale ale)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

¼ tsp smoked paprika

Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pretzel Dough (Quick Version):

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

¾ tsp salt

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Baking Soda Wash:

2 cups water

1 ½ tbsp baking soda

For Topping:

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Optional: melted butter for brushing after air frying

Instructions

Make the Beer Cheese Brisket Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, beer, mustard, and paprika.

Mix until smooth, then fold in chopped smoked brisket.

Chill in fridge for 30 minutes to firm up for easier handling.

Prepare Pretzel Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

Add Greek yogurt and knead until a smooth dough forms.

Divide into 12 equal pieces.

Shape the Bombs

Flatten each dough ball into a 3–4 inch circle.

Scoop 1 tbsp of filling into the center.

Fold the edges up and pinch tightly to seal into a ball.

Roll gently in hands to smooth the seam.

Baking Soda Wash

Dissolve baking soda in hot water.

Dip each bomb into the solution for 10 seconds, then remove and place on parchment.

Air Fry the Bombs

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Brush bombs with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Place bombs in the basket (don’t overcrowd).

Air fry for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown.

Brush with melted butter if desired.

Tips & Tricks

Beer Substitute: Use milk or non-alcoholic beer if preferred.

No Brisket? Pulled pork, chopped pastrami, or even shredded chicken work well.

Make Ahead: Form and freeze bombs before baking. Air fry from frozen with +2–3 min.

Cheese Hack: Freeze small scoops of filling for 10 min to make stuffing easier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spicy mustard, beer cheese dip, or BBQ sauce.

Pair with pickles, coleslaw, or a simple side salad.

Great for game day, potlucks, or weekend snacking.

Nutrition Facts (Per Bomb – Approximate)