Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a delicious snack that combines the classic, chewy pretzel with a gooey surprise inside. This warm treat is perfect for sharing at parties, enjoying during movie nights, or just when you want something tasty to eat. With their golden brown exterior and melty mozzarella filling, these pretzels are sure to be a hit.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels at home is a fun and rewarding experience. You can enjoy the fresh taste of homemade pretzels right out of the oven. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and allows you to customize your pretzels with your favorite fillings. Plus, they are perfect for dipping in mustard or cheese sauce!
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
- 2 1⁄4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1⁄2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (diced)
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for topping)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
- Stir in flour and salt until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and form it into a pretzel shape, adding mozzarella inside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil; stir in the baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
How to Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Serve these pretzels warm to enjoy the gooey mozzarella inside. They pair wonderfully with mustard, marinara sauce, or a cheesy dip for extra flavor. These pretzels can also be sliced and shared, making them great for gatherings.
How to Store Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
To store leftover pretzels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each pretzel in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw and heat them in the oven to restore their texture.
Tips to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough until it is smooth for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the boiling step; it gives the pretzels their classic chewy crust.
- Experiment with different fillings like cheddar cheese, pepperoni, or herbs for variety.
Variation
You can add spices to the dough or top the pretzels with garlic powder or seasoning salt for different flavors. Try using different types of cheese for a unique twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.
2. What if I don’t have baking soda?
Baking soda is essential for the boiling step which creates the pretzel flavor. If you don’t have it, it’s best to find some before trying this recipe.
3. How can I reheat the pretzels?
To reheat pretzels, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Enjoy making and sharing your Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels!
Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C) Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling and Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (diced) For a gooey center.
- ¼ cup baking soda Essential for the boiling step to create pretzel flavor.
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash
- Coarse salt (for topping)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
- Stir in flour and salt until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and form it into a pretzel shape, adding mozzarella inside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil; stir in the baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
