why make this recipe
Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are a delightful twist on the classic pretzel. These soft pretzels are not only fluffy and warm, but they also have gooey mozzarella in the center, making them an irresistible snack. The combination of parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary adds a savory flavor that elevates them beyond ordinary snacks. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in, these pretzels are sure to please everyone.
how to make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
Ingredients:
For the Pretzel Dough:
- 3 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Filling:
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks or mozzarella cut into strips
For the Baking Soda Bath:
- 8 cups water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- Coarse pretzel salt (optional)
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy to confirm the yeast is active.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead with a stand mixer dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes or by hand on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a rope 18 to 20 inches long.
- Gently flatten each rope slightly. Place a mozzarella stick or strip along the center of each rope. Wrap the dough tightly around the cheese and pinch the ends firmly to seal completely.
- Shape each stuffed rope into a traditional pretzel by forming a U shape, crossing the ends twice over each other, and folding them down to the base of the U. Press firmly to secure the shape.
- Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add baking soda — it will bubble. Boil each pretzel for 20 to 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan, chopped fresh rosemary, and coarse pretzel salt if using.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until deeply golden brown and the parmesan has melted into a savory coating. Serve warm with your dipping sauce of choice.
how to serve Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
These pretzels are best served warm. You can pair them with a variety of dipping sauces. Some great options include marinara sauce, garlic butter, or a spicy mustard. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or a unique side dish alongside your favorite meal.
how to store Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
Once cooled, store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them for longer, consider freezing the pretzels. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them warm and soft again.
tips to make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
- Make sure your water is not too hot; otherwise, it can kill the yeast.
- Allow your dough to rise in a warm place for the best results.
- You can experiment with different cheese types for the filling, like cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor.
- If you want a shinier pretzel, you can double brush them with the egg wash before baking.
variation
You can add different herbs or spices to your pretzels. For a spicy kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the topping mixture. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try sprinkling a little cinnamon sugar on top after baking.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before shaping the pretzels.
2. Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza or bread dough can save time. Just follow the same filling and shaping instructions.
3. Can I use different fillings?
Yes, you can customize the filling! Try using different types of cheese, adding cooked meats, or even vegetables for a fun twist.
Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
Delightful soft pretzels stuffed with gooey mozzarella and topped with parmesan and fresh rosemary, perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks or mozzarella cut into strips
- 8 cups water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- Coarse pretzel salt (optional)
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
Instructions
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 to 6 minutes with a stand mixer or 8 to 10 minutes by hand.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope 18 to 20 inches long.
- Flatten each rope slightly, place a mozzarella stick along the center, wrap the dough around and seal.
- Shape each pretzel by forming a U shape, crossing the ends twice, and folding them down to the base.
- Boil 8 cups of water in a pot, add baking soda, and boil each pretzel for 20 to 30 seconds before removing.
- Brush each pretzel with the egg wash, sprinkle with parmesan, rosemary, and coarse salt.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and serve warm.
Notes
Best served warm with dipping sauces like marinara or garlic butter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
