Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels: A Cheesy, Soft, and Golden Snack
Are you looking for a snack that’s both comforting and irresistible? If you love soft, warm pretzels and gooey mozzarella cheese, then Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are exactly what you need. These pretzels offer a unique twist on the classic, with a delicious mozzarella filling that melts to perfection, making every bite as satisfying as it is cheesy.
Whether you’re hosting a movie night, having a family get-together, or just craving a savory snack, these mozzarella-stuffed pretzels will undoubtedly steal the show. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make, especially if you’re a fan of homemade bread-making.
Let’s take a deep dive into this recipe and explore the process step by step so you can whip up a batch of these warm, cheesy pretzels in no time.
🥨 What Are Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels?
Soft pretzels are a beloved snack worldwide, typically characterized by their golden-brown, chewy exterior and slightly salty flavor. Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels, however, take things to the next level by adding a rich, melty mozzarella filling that makes them even more indulgent.
The concept of these stuffed pretzels is simple: a soft, doughy exterior filled with gooey mozzarella cheese that’s melted perfectly inside. They’re boiled in a baking soda bath to achieve that traditional pretzel texture—chewy and crisp on the outside with a soft, tender interior. Once baked, they are brushed with a golden egg wash and sprinkled with coarse salt to create a beautiful, savory crust.
🧀 The Perfect Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
To make these soft, cheesy pretzels, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Don’t be intimidated by the process—each step is easy to follow, and the result is a treat that’s well worth the effort.
For the Dough:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: The yeast is essential for helping the dough rise and giving the pretzels their characteristic light, airy texture.
1 1/2 cups warm water: The warm water activates the yeast and helps the dough form.
1 tbsp sugar: This small amount of sugar helps feed the yeast, encouraging it to rise and ensuring the dough has the right texture.
4 cups all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour is the base of the dough, providing structure and chewiness to the pretzels.
1 tsp salt: A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the mozzarella cheese.
For the Stuffed Filling:
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes: Mozzarella is the star of this recipe, providing that melty, gooey center that’s the heart of every stuffed pretzel. You want the cheese in cubes so it’s easier to wrap in the dough.
For the Baking Soda Bath:
1/3 cup baking soda: This bath is a crucial step in the soft pretzel-making process. It gives the pretzels their characteristic golden-brown crust and chewy texture.
2 cups hot water: This helps dissolve the baking soda and creates the perfect bath for the pretzels before baking.
For the Finish:
1 large egg, beaten: An egg wash brushed on top of the pretzels gives them a beautiful golden color and a slightly glossy finish.
Coarse salt: A sprinkle of coarse salt on top enhances the flavor of the pretzels and adds that signature salty crunch.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels.
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add the sugar to help activate the yeast and stir to combine. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes or until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Next, add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to form. Once combined, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic, with no lumps. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much—this could result in dense pretzels.
Once the dough is ready, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Divide and Fill
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
Place a 1-inch cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each flattened dough piece. Gently fold the dough around the cheese, pinching the edges together to seal it securely. The goal is to enclose the cheese completely, so no cheese escapes during baking. Shape the dough into a ball or round shape, making sure it’s sealed tightly.
3. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath
In a large bowl or pot, dissolve the baking soda in 2 cups of hot water. This solution will help the pretzels achieve their signature chewy texture and golden-brown crust.
Carefully dip each stuffed dough ball into the baking soda bath for about 5 seconds, then remove it and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all the pretzel balls. The baking soda bath will help the pretzels hold their shape and develop a deep, golden color once baked.
4. Brush with Egg Wash and Sprinkle Salt
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg, making sure to coat the surface evenly. The egg wash will give the pretzels a beautiful golden finish as they bake. After brushing with the egg, sprinkle each pretzel generously with coarse salt to add that essential savory flavor.
5. Bake the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the oven is heated, bake the pretzels for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. You’ll notice the pretzels developing a gorgeous crust, while the cheese inside becomes gooey and melty.
6. Serve
Allow the pretzels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Be cautious, as the cheese inside can be extremely hot. Enjoy the pretzels while they’re warm, and relish the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the gooey, cheesy interior.
🍽️ Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
Fresh Mozzarella: While regular mozzarella works great, using fresh mozzarella will give the pretzels an even richer, creamier filling. Fresh mozzarella tends to melt more easily and adds a slightly tangy flavor to the pretzels.
Cheese Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheese options. For a sharper taste, try cheddar or provolone. If you want a blend of flavors, try using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Shape Variations: You can shape these pretzels in different ways, such as traditional pretzel shapes or as stuffed rolls. The cooking process and baking time will remain the same.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time. Let it rise in the refrigerator overnight and bake the pretzels the next day for a quick and easy snack.
🧑🍳 Serve These Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels at Your Next Gathering!
These mozzarella-stuffed pretzels are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a movie night with friends, a tailgating party, or an afternoon snack for the family, these cheesy pretzels will be a hit every time. They also make an excellent appetizer for a party, offering a warm, savory option that’s perfect for dipping in mustard or marinara sauce.
🍩 Final Thoughts
Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a delicious, savory treat that combines the best of both worlds: soft, chewy pretzel dough and rich, gooey mozzarella cheese. With their golden-brown crust and melty interior, these pretzels are guaranteed to satisfy your craving for a warm, cheesy snack. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
So, grab your ingredients, get that yeast ready, and treat yourself to these irresistible pretzels. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 35-38 minutes
Yields: 12 pretzels
Calories: 240 kcal per pretzel
Enjoy your warm, cheesy creations! 🧀🥨