Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels – A Cheesy Delight

If you’re a fan of soft pretzels and gooey mozzarella, this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzel recipe is the ultimate indulgence. These warm, pillowy pretzels are filled with melty mozzarella cheese, offering the perfect combination of savory dough and creamy filling. They’re soft, flavorful, and wonderfully chewy, with the added bonus of a hint of fresh rosemary and Parmesan. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, snack, or party treat, these mozzarella stuffed pretzels will surely be a hit.

What makes this recipe so special is the delightful contrast of textures: the crisp golden crust, the soft and chewy interior, and the oozy, molten mozzarella filling. The touch of rosemary adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor, while the Parmesan topping provides an extra savory kick. Perfectly paired with a side of marinara or a mustard dip, these pretzels are great for sharing or enjoying alone.

Best of all, this recipe is easy to follow, and with just a little time for preparation and baking, you’ll have fresh, homemade soft pretzels ready to enjoy. They’re a perfect comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds: the beloved soft pretzel and cheesy mozzarella goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Gooey Mozzarella Filling

The mozzarella filling is the star of the show. Once you bite into these pretzels, you’ll be greeted with warm, stretchy mozzarella cheese that’s simply irresistible.

2. Fresh and Flavorful

The addition of fresh rosemary and grated Parmesan cheese gives these pretzels an elevated flavor profile, making them feel like a gourmet treat.

3. Perfect for Sharing

This recipe yields eight pretzels, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings, parties, or family dinners. These cheesy pretzels will disappear quickly!

4. Homemade Goodness

Making these pretzels from scratch means you get to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread, freshly baked and filled with melty mozzarella.

5. Versatile

Serve these mozzarella stuffed pretzels with marinara sauce, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce for an added touch of flavor. They’re great as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side to a meal.

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm water
• Sugar
• Salt

For the Mozzarella Filling:

• Fresh mozzarella (cut into small cubes)
• Fresh rosemary leaves (chopped)
• Grated Parmesan cheese

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• Water
• Baking soda

For the Topping:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh rosemary leaves (for garnish)

Variations

• Different Fillings: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
• Herb Infused Dough: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs to the dough for additional flavor.
• Sweet Pretzels: For a sweet version, omit the rosemary and Parmesan and fill the pretzels with cinnamon sugar and serve with a glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the flour and salt to the bowl and mix until the dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the mozzarella filling. In a small bowl, combine the cubed mozzarella, chopped fresh rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 12-14 inches in length. Flatten each rope slightly with your hands and place a spoonful of the mozzarella filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to seal it, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed. Shape each stuffed dough piece into a pretzel shape by twisting the ends and bringing them to the center, pinching them to secure the shape.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Carefully lower each pretzel into the water bath for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake the Pretzels

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzels for about 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh rosemary leaves for garnish.

Step 7: Serve

Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara or mustard.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: The baking soda bath helps to achieve the pretzel’s signature texture and deep golden color. Don’t skip this step!
• Make Sure the Cheese Is Sealed: Ensure that the mozzarella filling is fully sealed inside the dough to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality and creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as well.
• Shaping the Pretzels: If you have trouble shaping the pretzels, you can make them into rounds instead of twisting them into traditional pretzel shapes.

How to Serve

Serve these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels as an appetizer or a snack at parties, game day events, or as part of a family dinner. Pair them with a side of marinara sauce, spicy mustard, or garlic butter for dipping. They’re also a delicious side to soups, salads, or even as a fun alternative to bread with pasta dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled pretzels on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?

Yes, you can use regular shredded mozzarella, but fresh mozzarella will provide the best melty, gooey texture.

2. Do I have to use rosemary?

No, rosemary is optional, but it adds a nice herby flavor. You can substitute it with other herbs like thyme or oregano, or omit it altogether.

3. Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pretzels, freeze them before baking, and then bake them later. Just allow them to thaw before baking.

4. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix on low speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

5. Can I make these without the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is crucial for achieving the pretzel texture and golden crust, so it’s recommended to include it.

6. How do I know when the pretzels are done?

The pretzels should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can check the internal temperature to be around 190°F (88°C) for a fully cooked pretzel.

7. Can I fill the pretzels with something other than mozzarella?

Absolutely! Feel free to use a variety of fillings, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even a combination of cheeses.

8. How can I make these pretzels more crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, brush the pretzels with melted butter or oil right before baking.

9. What can I serve these pretzels with?

These pretzels are delicious on their own or served with marinara sauce, mustard, or garlic butter for dipping.

10. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Simply refrigerate it after kneading, then let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a cheesy, comforting snack that will impress anyone who loves soft pretzels and gooey cheese. With a golden, chewy crust and a warm, mozzarella-filled center, they’re a perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious, these pretzels are sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Make them at home and enjoy the homemade goodness of soft pretzels filled with melted mozzarella and fragrant rosemary.

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