Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels: A Gooey, Cheesy Delight

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Introduction

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a gooey, cheesy delight that take the classic soft pretzel to a whole new level. The warm, salty exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy interior that’s packed with melted mozzarella cheese. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory and creamy, making it an irresistible snack or appetizer. The stretch of melted cheese as you pull apart the pretzel is just one of the many reasons these stuffed pretzels are so satisfying.

These pretzels have become a go-to in our house. I first made them as a fun twist on traditional pretzels during a movie night, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The smell of freshly baked dough mingled with the savory scent of mozzarella melting inside is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The best part is pulling apart the pretzel to reveal the gooey, cheesy center – it’s like a little cheesy surprise in every bite.

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are perfect for any occasion. They’re great as an appetizer for a party, a snack for game day, or even as a cozy treat for a quiet evening at home. Whether you enjoy them on their own or paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these pretzels are sure to be a hit. If you’re looking for a fun, indulgent treat that combines the comforting texture of soft pretzels with the cheesy goodness of mozzarella, this recipe is a must-try!

Perfect for:

• Game day or sports parties
• Savory snacks or appetizers
• Family movie nights
• Celebrations and casual get-togethers
• A fun homemade treat for cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Goodness: Each pretzel is filled with gooey mozzarella that melts beautifully inside.
• Soft and Chewy: The combination of soft pretzel dough and warm cheese makes for an irresistible snack.
• Fun to Make: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this recipe is fun to assemble and bake.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize the pretzels with your favorite seasonings and dips.
• Homemade Flavor: Freshly baked pretzels made from scratch offer unbeatable flavor and texture.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 small cubes
• Salt, for sprinkling on top

Ingredient Highlights:

• Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the filling, mozzarella adds a creamy, stretchy texture that melts beautifully.
• Pretzel Dough: Soft and chewy, the dough provides the perfect vessel for the gooey cheese filling.
• Egg Wash: Creates a golden, shiny finish on the pretzels once baked.
• Baking Soda Bath: Helps the pretzels achieve that signature crisp, golden-brown crust.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Prepare the Pretzel Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir to dissolve and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter, stirring until the dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Pretzels:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Form the Pretzel Shape: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12 inches in length. Flatten each rope slightly, then place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Pinch the edges of the dough around the cheese to seal it, forming a stuffed pretzel. Shape each filled piece into a pretzel shape.
6. Boil the Pretzels: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Pretzels:

7. Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg wash for a golden, shiny finish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve

• With Dips: Serve with a variety of dips such as mustard, marinara sauce, or cheese sauce.
• As a Snack: Perfect on their own as a savory snack or appetizer.
• With Drinks: Pair with a cold beer or soda for a classic snack experience.
• For Parties: Make a large batch for sharing at parties, tailgates, or gatherings.

Additional Tips

• Check Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour as you knead it.
• Don’t Overfill the Pretzels: Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the mozzarella to prevent any leakage while baking.
• Customize the Filling: Try using different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a variety of flavors.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pretzels and freeze them before boiling and baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheese and Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits inside the pretzel for an extra savory touch.
2. Herb-Infused Dough: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.
3. Cheddar and Jalapeño: Stuff with sharp cheddar and diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Sweet Pretzels: Swap the mozzarella for chocolate or cinnamon sugar for a dessert-style pretzel.
5. Pizza Pretzels: Add pepperoni slices inside the pretzel along with mozzarella for a pizza-inspired treat.
6. Stuffed with Pesto: Use fresh mozzarella and a spoonful of pesto for an herby, flavorful filling.
7. Mini Pretzels: Make smaller, bite-sized versions perfect for appetizers or snacking.
8. Bacon Cheddar Stuffed: Combine bacon and sharp cheddar for a smoky, cheesy filling.
9. Spicy Garlic Pretzels: Add crushed garlic and red pepper flakes to the dough for extra flavor.
10. Vegan Pretzels: Use vegan cheese and a dairy-free butter substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, shaped pretzels before boiling and baking. When ready to bake, simply boil and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Special Equipment

1. Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients for the dough.
2. Slotted Spoon: For dropping the pretzels into the boiling water.
3. Rolling Pin: For rolling out the pretzel dough.
4. Baking Sheet: For baking the pretzels to golden perfection.
5. Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
6. Parchment Paper: Helps prevent the pretzels from sticking to the baking sheet.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough or soft pretzel dough, though homemade dough offers a fresher taste.
2. Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?
   You can prepare the pretzels, freeze them, and bake them later.
3. Can I stuff the pretzels with other types of cheese?
   Yes, try using cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
   Make sure the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese before boiling and baking.
5. Can I bake these pretzels without boiling them first?
   Boiling gives the pretzels their signature texture, but if you’re in a pinch, you can skip the boiling step and bake them directly.
6. What dipping sauces go well with these pretzels?
   Mustard, marinara sauce, or a cheesy dipping sauce are great choices.
7. How long do these pretzels stay fresh?
   They are best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
8. Can I make the dough in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight for convenience.
9. Can I make gluten-free pretzels?
   Yes, substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour in the dough recipe.
10. How do I reheat the pretzels?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are the perfect combination of savory and gooey indulgence that will leave you craving more with every bite. The soft, warm pretzel dough gives way to a deliciously melty mozzarella center, creating a satisfying contrast of textures that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or a fun twist on a classic comfort food, these pretzels are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity yet incredible flavor. You can easily customize the seasoning on the dough or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for added flair. Whether you’re enjoying them at a cozy family gathering or as part of a casual get-together, Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite.

I can’t wait for you to give this cheesy delight a try! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your twist on this savory treat! Enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!.