Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mozzarella stuffed soft pretzels are the ultimate comfort food—warm, chewy, and filled with gooey melted cheese. These homemade pretzels have a golden, salty crust and a soft, pillowy interior, making them perfect as a snack, appetizer, or game-day treat. Whether dipped in marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own, these pretzels are guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Warm water
Active dry yeast
Sugar
Salt
Butter (melted)
Mozzarella cheese sticks or fresh mozzarella
Baking soda
Water (for boiling)
Egg (for egg wash)
Coarse salt or pretzel salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Shape and Fill the Pretzels

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Divide dough into equal portions.
Roll each piece into a rope, flatten slightly, and place a mozzarella stick in the center.
Seal the dough around the cheese and shape into a traditional pretzel or a simple twist.

3. Boil the Pretzels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add baking soda.
Dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 20–30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake the Pretzels

Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy with marinara sauce, mustard, or garlic butter.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
Garlic Butter Glaze: Brush with melted garlic butter after baking.
Sweet Version: Skip the salt and brush with cinnamon sugar.
Whole Wheat Option: Use half whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 pretzels

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze baked pretzels for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pizza dough works well for a quicker version.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to fully seal the dough around the mozzarella stick.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Shape the pretzels and refrigerate overnight before boiling and baking.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Marinara sauce, mustard, cheese sauce, or ranch dressing all work great.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Try cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for variety.

How do I get a darker pretzel crust?

Boiling in baking soda water and using an egg wash will enhance the golden color.

Can I skip the baking soda bath?

It’s essential for the classic pretzel texture, but you can brush them with baking soda water instead.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How do I make these vegan?

Use plant-based cheese and brush with dairy-free butter instead of egg wash.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly!

Conclusion

Mozzarella stuffed soft pretzels combine classic pretzel flavors with gooey cheese in every bite. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or a party appetizer, these pretzels are sure to be a crowd favorite. Try making them today and enjoy bakery-style pretzels at home!

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