Description
These Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are warm, soft, and packed with gooey cheese in every bite! With a golden brown crust, chewy texture, and melty mozzarella center, these pretzels are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for parties, game days, or as a special treat. Serve them with marinara sauce or mustard for an extra flavor kick!
Ingredients
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For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
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For the Filling:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks or small cubes
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For the Baking Soda Bath:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
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For Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. -
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Soda Bath:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. -
Form and Stuff the Pretzels:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-14 inches. Flatten the rope with your fingers, place a mozzarella stick (or cube) along the center, and pinch the dough closed around the cheese, sealing the edges well. Shape the dough into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, twisting the ends, and folding them over to press down on the bottom of the U. -
Baking Soda Bath:
Carefully place each pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath for 20-30 seconds. Using a slotted spatula, remove the pretzel and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining pretzels. -
Brush and Bake:
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. -
Serve Warm:
Serve warm with marinara sauce, mustard, or any dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Notes
- For extra flavor, try sprinkling garlic powder or Italian seasoning on top before baking.
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent cheese from leaking out while baking.