Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’re like me and love soft pretzels but wish they had a melty twist, this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine biting into that golden, slightly crisp pretzel exterior only to find gooey, stringy mozzarella oozing from inside—trust me, it’s as delightful as it sounds! I can’t wait to share all my tips and tricks so your kitchen turns out batch after batch of these crowd-pleasers.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients here combine to create that irresistible chew and flavor that make these mozzarella-stuffed soft pretzels unforgettable. Don’t skip the baking soda bath—that’s the secret to that classic pretzel crust!

• All-purpose flour: Choose a good quality brand; it provides structure but keeps your pretzels tender.
• Active dry yeast: Make sure it’s fresh to get a good rise and light texture.
• Warm water: Not too hot or it’ll kill the yeast—about body temperature is perfect.
• Sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
• Salt: Essential for flavor balance in the dough.
• Fresh mozzarella cheese: I like using fresh rather than low-moisture for that creamy, melty center.
• Fresh rosemary leaves: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Used both inside and as a topping—gives a nice sharpness and extra flavor boost.
• Baking soda: For the baking soda bath that creates the golden crust and that subtle pretzel tang.
• Water for the bath: Used with the baking soda to achieve that iconic pretzel texture and color.

Variations

I love how flexible this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe is, allowing you to make tweaks based on your preferences or dietary needs. Let me share a few of my favorite twists that really bring out new flavors or make prep easier.

• Herbed Butter Brush: I sometimes melt butter with garlic and brush it on after baking for an extra savory touch—my family goes crazy for it!
• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough or topping adds a nice heat if you like a little spice.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve experimented with gluten-free flour blends—just remember the texture will vary, but still tasty!
• Other Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, provolone or gouda cubes can work beautifully too.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix the Dough

Start by dissolving the sugar in warm water, then sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy—this signals the yeast is alive and kicking. I’ve found skipping this causes dense, flat pretzels, so don’t rush it! Then, mix in the salt and gradually add your flour until you form a soft, elastic dough. Knead it well—around 8-10 minutes by hand or 6 with a mixer—to build that chewy texture you want.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and set it somewhere warm for about 45 minutes until doubled in size. I usually put mine inside the oven with just the light on—that’s a perfect cozy spot. This rise is crucial so your pretzels are airy, not dense.

Step 3: Shape and Stuff Your Pretzels

Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 16 inches long. Now the fun part: place a few mozzarella cubes and a bit of chopped rosemary along the center, then fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the seams tightly to seal. Trust me, sealing well is key so the cheese doesn’t leak during baking! Then shape each into the classic pretzel twist shape.

Step 4: Baking Soda Bath for That Classic Crust

This step might seem a little strange, but it’s what gives pretzels that distinctive shiny, golden crust. Bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil, then carefully dunk each pretzel for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon and be gentle so you don’t tear the dough. The alkaline bath is what triggers that lovely crust and subtle flavor.

Step 5: Bake and Add the Final Touches

Arrange the pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh rosemary, then pop them into a 425°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until beautifully golden. Watching the cheese melt slightly as the oven works its magic is one of my personal favorite moments in baking.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves and a little extra grated Parmesan right after baking—they aroma is wonderful and adds a fresh, savory note. Sometimes I drizzle a bit of garlic butter if we’re craving something extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

These soft pretzels go great with tangy mustard dips like whole grain or spicy brown, and a side of crisp salad balances the richness perfectly. I’ve also paired them with tomato soup for a fun, comforting snack or light meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve laid these pretzels out on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces—everyone loves assembling their own combo! Rolling up some fresh herbs or tying them with kitchen twine makes them look so charming too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be tough!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. I recommend gently reheating rather than microwaving to keep the crust soft but still chewy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen unbaked shaped pretzels on a tray, then transferred them to bags to freeze. When ready, thaw and then do the baking soda bath and bake as usual—this saves so much time if you want fresh pretzels on demand.

Reheating

To reheat, pop pretzels in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This warms the cheese nicely and brings back that soft-yet-crispy texture better than a microwave, which can make them rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe brings a personal twist on a classic favorite—each bite feels like a warm hug. When I first made these, I was surprised at how approachable the process is, yet the results feel gourmet. Whether for a cozy night in or a party snack, I promise you’ll get rave reviews. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen—you won’t regret it!

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