Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels – A Cheesy, Warm Delight

There’s something magical about soft pretzels—those warm, pillowy pockets of dough with a golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior. Now imagine that pretzel filled with gooey, melted mozzarella and fresh rosemary, creating a deliciously irresistible combination that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are the perfect comfort food for any cheese lover and are guaranteed to impress at your next gathering. The combination of soft dough, savory cheese, and aromatic rosemary is a match made in heaven, making these pretzels an ideal snack, appetizer, or even a fun main course.

Making soft pretzels at home might seem daunting, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll find that it’s not only simple but incredibly rewarding. These homemade mozzarella-stuffed pretzels are filled with warm, melting mozzarella and topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan, making each bite an experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, these pretzels are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. And the best part? They only take a little over an hour to prepare, so you can enjoy them fresh and hot, right out of the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Gooey Mozzarella Filling

The star of the show is the gooey, melted mozzarella inside each pretzel. When you take a bite, you get an explosion of cheesy goodness that will leave you craving more.

2. Soft, Pillowy Texture

These pretzels have the perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, making each bite a satisfying texture experience.

3. Fresh Herb Flavor

The addition of fresh rosemary and Parmesan cheese in the filling and topping gives these pretzels a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the mozzarella.

4. Homemade Goodness

Making soft pretzels from scratch may seem intimidating, but this recipe is surprisingly simple and rewarding. You’ll get the satisfaction of making fresh pretzels at home with minimal effort.

5. Perfect for Sharing

This recipe yields 8 pretzels, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family at parties, picnics, or as a fun weekend treat.

Ingredients

Dough:

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

Mozzarella Filling:

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

Baking Soda Bath:

• Water
• Baking soda

Topping:

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

Variations

• Cheddar Stuffed Pretzels: Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar or a mix of different cheeses for a sharper, more intense flavor.
• Spicy Pretzels: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mozzarella filling for a subtle kick.
• Garlic Pretzels: Incorporate garlic powder into the dough or sprinkle on top of the pretzels before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegetarian Options: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mozzarella filling for a savory twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Add the flour and salt to the mixture and stir until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Mozzarella Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the mozzarella filling by combining the cubed fresh mozzarella, chopped rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Stir until well mixed and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the baking soda and stir until it dissolves. This will create the baking soda bath that gives the pretzels their signature golden color and texture.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 12 inches long. Flatten each rope slightly and place a spoonful of the mozzarella filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Then, shape each stuffed dough ball into a traditional pretzel shape, twisting and folding as you go.

Step 5: Boil the Pretzels

Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath for about 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pretzels and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the Pretzels

Brush each pretzel with a little water and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the pretzels have cooled for a few minutes, garnish with fresh rosemary leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the pretzels with cheese, as it may leak out while baking.
• Seal the Edges Well: Ensure that the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese filling to prevent it from spilling out during the boiling and baking process.
• Adjust the Shape: If you’re not familiar with making traditional pretzel shapes, don’t worry! You can shape the dough into twists, loops, or even round shapes depending on your preference.
• Let the Dough Rise Fully: Be sure to let the dough rise until it has doubled in size. This will help ensure that the pretzels are light and fluffy.

How to Serve

Serve these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal. They’re perfect for dipping in marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy cheese sauce. Pair them with a cold drink like iced tea, lemonade, or your favorite craft beer for a satisfying and indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the pretzels in foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze the pretzels, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the pretzels to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven as needed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pretzels in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until they are warm and the cheese is gooey again.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made pizza dough instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, pre-made pizza dough can be used as a shortcut if you’re short on time. Just be sure to let it rise as needed before filling.

2. Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?

While fresh mozzarella gives the best texture, shredded mozzarella will work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to use a high-quality mozzarella.

3. Can I add other fillings besides mozzarella?

Definitely! You can add other ingredients such as cooked sausage, pepperoni, or sautéed vegetables to create different flavor combinations.

4. Can I skip the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is essential for achieving the classic pretzel texture and color. While you could skip it, the pretzels will lose their signature look and texture.

5. Can I make these pretzels smaller?

Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions and make mini pretzels. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, checking them after 12-15 minutes.

6. How long does it take for the dough to rise?

The dough will need to rise for about 45 minutes or until it has doubled in size.

7. Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pretzels the day before and store them in the fridge. Just bake them the next day or reheat them when ready to serve.

8. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Let it thaw and rise again before shaping and baking.

9. Can I use a different herb instead of rosemary?

Yes, thyme, oregano, or even basil can be used in place of rosemary if you prefer a different herb flavor.

10. What can I dip these pretzels in?

These pretzels are great with marinara sauce, garlic butter, mustard, or even a creamy cheese dip. Get creative with your dipping options!

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a perfect blend of savory flavors, cheesy goodness, and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these pretzels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of soft dough, gooey mozzarella, and fresh rosemary creates an unforgettable taste that will have you making these pretzels again and again. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!

Print