Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pretzels combine the savory, chewy texture of soft pretzels with the creamy, gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese. The addition of fresh rosemary and Parmesan gives them an aromatic, flavorful twist. They’re the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence, and the best part is, they’re easier to make than you might think! With a baking soda bath to give them that signature golden color and texture, these pretzels are as satisfying to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups water (for baking soda bath)
• ¼ cup baking soda
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh rosemary leaves, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Dough:

1. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the bowl, then knead into a smooth dough.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise for 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

For the Filling:

4. Mix the mozzarella cubes with chopped rosemary and grated Parmesan cheese to make the filling.

Shaping the Pretzels:

5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 portions and roll each into a rope about 12 inches long.
7. Flatten each rope slightly, spoon the mozzarella mixture down the center, and then seal the dough around it to enclose the cheese.
8. Shape each filled dough rope into a pretzel shape.

Baking Soda Bath:

9. In a saucepan, heat 4 cups of water and baking soda until it reaches a simmer. Carefully dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds.
10. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary.

Baking:

11. Bake the pretzels for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
12. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)

Variations

1. Cheese Variations: Try using a different cheese like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a new flavor twist.
2. Herb Infused: Add garlic powder or other herbs like thyme or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
3. Spicy Add-ins: For a spicy version, try adding chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
4. Sweet Pretzels: Make a sweet version by using cinnamon sugar in the filling and topping the pretzels with a drizzle of icing after baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: These pretzels freeze well. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat frozen pretzels in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after it has risen. Let it come to room temperature before shaping the pretzels.

What’s the purpose of the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath gives the pretzels their classic chewy texture and golden-brown color. It’s a crucial step to get that iconic pretzel crunch.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?

Fresh mozzarella works best for this recipe because it melts beautifully and has a rich, creamy texture. Shredded mozzarella will also work, but the filling might not be as gooey.

Can I make these pretzels without rosemary?

Yes, if you don’t like rosemary, you can skip it or substitute it with other herbs like thyme, garlic, or parsley for a different flavor.

How can I tell when my pretzels are done baking?

The pretzels are done when they are golden brown on the outside and have a firm texture. You can also check by cutting one open to see if the cheese is melted inside.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are the ultimate comfort snack with a cheesy, herby twist. They’re a fun and delicious way to enjoy soft pretzels, with the gooey mozzarella center and fragrant rosemary adding layers of flavor. Whether for a cozy snack, party appetizer, or game day treat, these pretzels are sure to impress everyone who tries them. Plus, they’re easy to make, and you can even prep them in advance—making them a perfect addition to your snack rotation!

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