Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe
Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels are the ultimate snack that combines the fluffy texture of freshly baked pretzels with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in, these pretzels are sure to please everyone. With their golden brown exterior and cheesy filling, they are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a favorite for many reasons. Firstly, the taste is simply irresistible! The warm, soft pretzels paired with molten mozzarella creates a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. Additionally, making pretzels at home is a fun activity, especially if you’re cooking with friends or family. You can customize them to your liking by adding different toppings or dips. Plus, they are perfect for snacking, serving as appetizers, or even as a fun main dish.
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious mozzarella-stuffed pretzels.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 10-12 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and salt in warm water. Add the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour and melted butter to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Divide the dough into pieces, flatten them, and place mozzarella sticks in the center.
- Roll the dough around the cheese and shape into pretzel forms.
- Boil water with baking soda in a large pot; dip pretzels in the water for 30 seconds.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Enjoy warm!
How to Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
These pretzels are best enjoyed hot out of the oven. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or try a cheesy nacho sauce for an extra flavor kick. You can also pair them with mustard or a thick ranch dressing for a delicious twist.
How to Store Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
For leftover pretzels, let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Tips to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot, as water that is too hot can kill the yeast.
- Knead the dough well; this helps develop gluten, giving the pretzels their chewy texture.
- Experiment with different cheese fillings, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a fun twist.
Variations
- Add spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the dough for extra flavor.
- Top your pretzels with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking.
- For a sweet twist, fill them with chocolate or cinnamon sugar instead of cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, gouda, or even creamy cheese spreads can work well.
2. Can I freeze the pretzels?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pretzels before baking. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
3. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, double-check that your yeast is fresh. If the yeast mixture doesn’t foam after 5 minutes, it may be inactive, and you should try again with fresh yeast.
Making Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels is a delightful cooking adventure that results in a mouthwatering treat. With this guide, you can confidently whip up these delicious snacks and enjoy them any time!
Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water Ensure the water is warm but not hot.
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast Ensure that the yeast is fresh.
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling & Topping
- 10-12 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks You can experiment with different cheese fillings.
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten For brushing on pretzels.
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling Sprinkle before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and salt in warm water. Add the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour and melted butter to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Forming Pretzels
- Divide the dough into pieces, flatten them, and place mozzarella sticks in the center.
- Roll the dough around the cheese and shape into pretzel forms.
Cooking
- Boil water with baking soda in a large pot; dip pretzels in the water for 30 seconds.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Enjoy warm!
