Cheesy Pretzel Churro Cake (Printable)

Fluffy bars blend pretzels, cheddar, and cinnamon sugar for a playful sweet meets savory treat.

# Components:

→ Base

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
06 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Add-Ins

10 - 1 cup mini salted pretzels, roughly crushed
11 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Churro Topping

12 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
13 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
14 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing paper to overhang on the sides for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
03 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together whole milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and gently mix until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to preserve a tender crumb.
05 - Lightly fold the crushed mini pretzels and shredded cheddar cheese into the batter using a spatula.
06 - Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
07 - Position the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - While baking, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
09 - When bars are finished baking, immediately brush the surface with melted butter and evenly sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
10 - Allow bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes then lift out using parchment paper. Cool further on a wire rack before slicing into bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Fun fusion of sweet and savory flavors
  • Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
02 -
  • Contains wheat, egg, and dairy; check pretzel packaging for possible allergens.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
03 -
  • Use parchment with an overhang for easy removal and slicing.
  • Let bars cool slightly before cutting to ensure best texture.