Not every snack food gets its own month, but it should come as no surprise that the universally adored soft pretzel has earned its own day in the sun. April is National Soft Pretzel Month, which gives operators creative license to serve this twisted treat in new and exciting ways.
Versatile enough to make novel appearances across menu parts yet familiar enough to tempt even the pickiest diners, soft pretzels offer operators countless ways to put a fresh spin on the treat all month long. Take a look.
Apps and sides
According to Technomic’s 2020 Snacking Occasion Consumer Trend Report, bread appetizers are on the rise, a trend that opens up an opportunity to tap into the shareable appeal of pretzel-based apps. A batch of Garlic Sesame Pretzel Bites with Sriracha Cream Sauce made with Superpretzel Soft Pretzel Bites makes for a savory starter with a kick. Brauhaus Pretzels Topped with Pesto and Parmesan are an easy-to-customize crowd-pleaser with an Italian flair. Or, on the sweeter side, Cinnamon Thai Superpretzel Soft Pretzel Bites combine butter, sugar, cinnamon and Five-Spice powder for a globally inspired option.
Sandwiches: The gateway to the entree
Subbing soft pretzel products for standard sandwich bread or buns is an easy upgrade that many diners may already know and love, but pretzel burgers are just the beginning. Offer a fresh take on a Vietnamese favorite by serving a Banh Mi Sandwich with a Labriola Demi Hinge Sliced soft pretzel, stuff a pretzel roll with Lobster Roll filling or serve an oversized Bavarian-style pretzel with any variety of sandwich toppings to make a satisfying Jumbo Pretzel Catering Board that can be sliced and shared.
Pretzel-fry shareables
Soft pretzel “fries” merit a category of their own: They’re novel, craveable and easy for operators to customize. A deconstructed hamburger is the crowning glory of Bacon Cheeseburger Soft Pretzel Fries, which are topped with ground beef, bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and condiments. Truffle Parmesan Soft Pretzel Fries offer an ultra-sophisticated take, topped with truffle oil, chives and Parmesan and served with a creamy truffle aioli on the side.
Wherever soft pretzels land on the menu, J&J Snacks has the fun flavors and quality products to make National Soft Pretzel Month (and beyond) a success. To learn more, visit jjsnack.com.
This post is sponsored by J&J Snack Foods