Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked pretzels wafting through your kitchen. Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are not only a delightful treat but also a fun activity to make with family and friends. These warm, chewy pretzels filled with gooey mozzarella are perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels because they are easy to prepare, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game night, having a family movie marathon, or just craving a tasty snack, these pretzels will satisfy everyone. Plus, they are fun to twist and shape, making for a great bonding experience in the kitchen.
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 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
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh rosemary leaves (for garnish)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is rising, mix the mozzarella cubes, rosemary, and grated Parmesan in a bowl for the filling.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a rope about 12-14 inches long.
- Flatten each rope slightly, add a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center, seal it, and twist it into a pretzel shape.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds.
- Place the boiled pretzels on the baking sheet, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh rosemary leaves, and serve warm.
How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Serve these pretzels warm right out of the oven for the best taste. You can offer a variety of dips like marinara sauce, mustard, or even a cheesy sauce for extra fun!
How to Store Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the pretzels cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
- Make sure your water is warm but not too hot when activating the yeast.
- Don’t skip the boiling step; it gives the pretzels their chewy texture.
- Experiment with different fillings or toppings to personalize your pretzels.
Variations
You can easily tweak this recipe by adding other fillings like cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or even herbs like basil for a unique twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, like cheddar or pepper jack.
2. How long can I keep these pretzels?
You can keep them at room temperature for 2 days or freeze them for up to a month.
3. Can I make pretzel bites instead?
Absolutely! Just cut the rolled dough into smaller pieces and follow the same boiling and baking instructions.