Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe (60 Minutes)
Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are the perfect combination of chewy, golden-brown pretzel dough and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This irresistible snack is ideal for parties, game nights, or whenever you're craving a savory treat. In just 60 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these homemade delights and impress your friends and family.Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step to achieve perfectly stuffed pretzels. Get ready to enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels!
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water about 110°F
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Mozzarella Filling:
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes or sticks
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Boiling and Topping:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm area.
Prepare the Mozzarella Filling
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Season the Butter: Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Set aside for brushing the pretzels later.
Assemble the Stuffed Pretzels
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long.
- Stuff with Mozzarella: Flatten each rope slightly, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and fold the dough around the cheese. Pinch the edges to seal tightly.
- Form the Pretzel Shape: Shape the stuffed dough into a traditional pretzel twist and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Boil and Bake the Pretzels
- Boil the Pretzels: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
- Brush and Season: Brush the boiled pretzels with the seasoned butter mixture and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the pretzels to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the hot cheese.
Notes
- Seal the Dough Tightly: Ensure the edges are fully pinched to prevent the mozzarella from leaking out during baking.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best melt and flavor, opt for fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded cheese.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for unique flavor variations.