Save A savory and spicy sheet cake topped with tangy cream cheese, crispy bacon, jalapeños, and crunchy pretzels is a perfect party snack or game-day treat. This loaded jalapeño pretzel sheet cake brings bold flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
I first made this sheet cake for a family game night and everyone devoured it within minutes. The mix of tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and crunchy pretzels makes it seriously addictive.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups for structure
- Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp to help the cake rise
- Baking soda: ½ tsp for extra lift
- Fine sea salt: 1 tsp to enhance flavors
- Granulated sugar: 1 tbsp for a hint of sweetness
- Buttermilk: 1 cup, room temperature, adds tang
- Large eggs: 2, for binding
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, melted, for richness
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: ½ cup for bold flavor
- Chopped pickled jalapeños: ¼ cup, brings mild heat
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp for a slight kick
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp, for greasing pan
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened, forms the creamy topping
- Sour cream: ¼ cup, for texture
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp for tang
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp to boost flavor
- Smoked paprika: ¼ tsp for depth
- Chopped scallions: ⅓ cup, adds freshness
- Crispy cooked bacon: ½ cup, crumbled (optional; omit for vegetarian)
- Chopped pickled jalapeños: ½ cup for topping heat
- Mini pretzels: ¾ cup, roughly crushed, brings crunch
- Shredded cheddar cheese: ½ cup for finishing flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rimmed 9x13-inch baking sheet or pan with olive oil.
- Make Dry Mixture:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and mustard together until smooth.
- Combine Batter:
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined, then fold in cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños.
- Bake Cake:
- Spread batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Mix Topping:
- Beat cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble Cake:
- Spread cream cheese mixture over the cooled cake.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle with scallions, bacon (if using), jalapeños, crushed pretzels, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve:
- Slice into squares and serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Save My kids love helping smash pretzels for the topping, and it's always a fun way to bring everyone together in the kitchen before serving.
Required Tools
Use a 9x13-inch rimmed baking sheet or pan, mixing bowls, hand mixer or whisk, rubber spatula, cooling rack, and a sharp knife for slicing.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat, eggs, dairy, and possibly soy or pork. Double-check ingredient labels if serving anyone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 285, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 8 g
Save This sheet cake is guaranteed to be the hit of your party table and tastes great paired with a crisp lager or wheat beer.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is the jalapeño pretzel cake?
It's moderately spicy due to pickled jalapeños; use fresh ones for extra heat, or reduce jalapeños for a milder result.
- → Can I make this without bacon?
Yes. Omit bacon or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option that maintains flavor and texture.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal crunch and cheesy, tangy topping experience.
- → Can the pretzel cake be prepared ahead?
You can bake the base in advance. Add the cream cheese topping and pretzels just before serving to preserve texture.
- → What drink pairs well with this?
Crisp lager or wheat beer complements its savory, spicy profile. Sparkling water is also a refreshing choice.
- → Are there allergen concerns with this dish?
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, eggs, and pork if using bacon. Check ingredients for soy and gluten in processed items.