Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a delightful treat that combines two beloved snacks: soft pretzels and gooey cheese. These pretzels are crispy on the outside and filled with melted mozzarella and fresh rosemary, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels? First, they are incredibly tasty and satisfying! The combination of warm, chewy pretzel dough and stretchy mozzarella is hard to resist. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you need a snack for movie night or want to impress guests at a party, these pretzels fit the bill perfectly.
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 large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, kneading until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for 30-45 minutes, allowing it to double in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine mozzarella cubes, chopped rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese to make the filling.
- Divide the risen dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope.
- Flatten each rope slightly and spoon the mozzarella and rosemary filling onto the center.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges, forming a pretzel shape.
- In a large saucepan or kettle, bring 4 cups of water to near boiling. Remove from heat and add baking soda, stirring until dissolved.
- Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling water bath for 30 seconds, then transfer them to the lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over each pretzel and garnish with a few fresh rosemary leaves.
- Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese crust becomes crispy.
- Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Serve these delicious pretzels warm, straight out of the oven. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a side of marinara sauce or mustard for dipping. These pretzels also make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings!
How to Store Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
To store leftover pretzels, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warm.
Tips to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
- Make sure your water is warm but not hot when adding the yeast. It should feel like warm bath water.
- Knead the dough well for a smooth texture. This helps develop the gluten structure for better-chewy pretzels.
- Experiment with different fillings! You can use other types of cheese or even add spices to the filling for a different flavor.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can drizzle some garlic butter over the pretzels right after baking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them even more irresistible.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Yes! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: What if I can’t find fresh rosemary?
A: You can use dried rosemary instead. Just reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can try using cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for a flavor twist.