Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels

Introduction

There’s something magical about soft pretzels, especially when they’re stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese. I recently made these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of warm, chewy pretzel dough enveloping melted cheese created a snack that was both comforting and indulgent. My kids couldn’t get enough, and even the adults were sneaking extra pretzels when they thought no one was looking. This recipe is perfect for game days, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these delectable bites!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 2-inch sticks
• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rest: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Divide and Fill with Cheese

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Dough: Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, then flatten it slightly.
7. Add the Cheese: Place a mozzarella stick in the center of each flattened dough piece. Wrap the dough around the cheese, ensuring the edges are sealed tightly to prevent any cheese from leaking during baking.

Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

8. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil.
9. Add Baking Soda: Gradually add the baking soda to the boiling water (be cautious, as it may foam up).
10. Bath the Pretzels: Using a slotted spoon, carefully lower each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds. This step is crucial for achieving that signature pretzel flavor and color.
11. Place on Baking Sheet: Remove the pretzels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush and Bake

12. Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
13. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and the cheese is oozing out.

Serve

14. Cool and Enjoy: Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate gooey experience!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Calories: Approximately 250 per pretzel
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (includes resting and baking)
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for the best gooeyness.
• Pair with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Offer alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a complete meal.
• Add a selection of dipping sauces, such as ranch or garlic butter.
• Great for parties, game day, or casual family gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Rush the Yeast: Ensure the water is at the right temperature to activate the yeast properly.
2. Seal Well: Make sure the edges of the dough are tightly sealed around the cheese to prevent leakage.
3. Experiment with Fillings: Try using different types of cheese or adding cooked bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella offers the best melting quality and flavor.
5. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary; keep an eye on the pretzels to avoid over-browning.

Recipe Variations

• Cheddar Stuffed Pretzels: Swap mozzarella for cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
• Herb-Infused Dough: Add garlic powder or Italian herbs to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
• Sweet Pretzels: For a dessert twist, fill with Nutella or a mix of cream cheese and chocolate chips.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these pretzels gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these pretzels as a fun appetizer at parties.
• Pair with a craft beer or a nice glass of wine for adult gatherings.
• They also make a great snack for kids after school.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Freeze baked pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving to restore the gooey texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.

1. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

• Add a little more flour to the dough until it reaches the right consistency.

1. Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and fill the pretzels in advance, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

1. What if I don’t have baking soda?

• Baking soda is crucial for the pretzel flavor; however, you can skip the bath but the result will be different.

1. How do I know when the pretzels are done?

• They should be golden brown and have a lovely smell. The cheese should be visibly melted.

1. Can I make mini pretzels?

• Absolutely! Just divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time.

1. What dipping sauces go well with these pretzels?

• Marinara sauce, cheese sauce, or even a spicy mustard would be great.

1. Is it possible to bake these without the baking soda bath?

• Yes, but they won’t have the same traditional pretzel taste and color.

1. Can I use store-bought dough?

• Sure! You can use pre-made dough for convenience, just follow the filling and baking instructions.

1. Are these pretzels suitable for a vegetarian diet?
   • Yes, these pretzels are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a delightful way to elevate your snacking experience. With their warm, chewy texture and gooey cheese center, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these pretzels are the perfect blend of comfort and gourmet. Give them a try, and enjoy the deliciousness with friends and family!

Print