Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both indulgent and comforting, these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are just the thing! Imagine biting into a warm, chewy pretzel with a gooey mozzarella center, beautifully enhanced by the earthy aroma of rosemary and the sharpness of parmesan. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it brings everyone together, whether we’re enjoying a cozy family movie night or celebrating with friends at a gathering.

These pretzels are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Plus, they are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, these pretzels come together quickly.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love pulling apart the soft pretzel to reveal that cheesy center!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these pretzels fit right in.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of rosemary, parmesan, and mozzarella creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome components that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful mozzarella stuffed pretzels:

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (About 110°F.)

For the Pretzel Coating

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Melted.)

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (Chopped.)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (Cut into 1-inch cubes.)

For Topping

• Coarse sea salt (For sprinkling.)

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into making those delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels!

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add spices: Consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the dough for an extra flavor kick.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Experiment with toppings: Instead of coarse sea salt, try everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for a crunchy finish.
• Make them sweet: For a dessert version, add cinnamon sugar to the dough and fill with cream cheese instead of mozzarella.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, which helps your pretzels rise and become light and fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your yeast mixture while stirring until well combined. The balance of flour and salt is key here; it gives structure to your dough while enhancing flavor.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

If using a stand mixer, knead the dough with the dough hook for about 5 minutes until smooth. If mixing by hand, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes. Kneading develops gluten in the flour that gives your pretzels their wonderful chewy texture.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Incorporate chopped rosemary and grated Parmesan into the dough. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl covered with a towel. Let it rise for about an hour until doubled in size; this allows flavors to meld beautifully while creating air pockets.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Getting your oven hot ensures those pretzels bake up golden brown and crispy on the outside!

Step 6: Shape Your Pretzels

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece slightly before placing a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold over the dough around cheese to seal tightly before rolling into ropes about 24 inches long.

Step 7: Twist Into Shape

Twist each rope into a classic pretzel shape and place them on your prepared baking sheet. This step is where you create that iconic look while ensuring every bite has that delicious gooey cheese center!

Step 8: Boil Before Baking

In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to boil then carefully add baking soda. Using a slotted spoon, drop each pretzel into boiling water one at a time—this helps develop that beautiful crust we all love! Boil them for about 30 seconds each before removing them to drain on paper towels.

Step 9: Brush & Sprinkle

Brush each pretzel generously with melted butter then sprinkle with coarse sea salt. This adds flavor while giving them that shiny appearance!

Step 10: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake!

And there you have it—deliciously unique Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels ready to enjoy! They’re perfect fresh from the oven or even served later with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Making these pretzels can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure success!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality flour will give your pretzels the best rise and flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to flat dough and bland taste.
• Knead well: Whether by hand or mixer, kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the pretzel its chewy texture. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
• Don’t skip the baking soda bath: This step is essential for achieving that classic pretzel flavor and golden-brown color. The alkaline solution gives the pretzels their characteristic crust.
• Experiment with fillings: While mozzarella is delightful, feel free to get creative! Try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach along with the cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve immediately: These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and gooey. If you need to reheat them, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy exterior.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

These soft pretzels not only taste amazing but can also be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional chopped rosemary or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness on top.
• Dipping sauces: Pair your pretzels with a side of marinara sauce or a garlic herb dip for added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers adds crunch and nutrition alongside your pretzels.
• Hummus: This creamy dip complements the salty pretzel perfectly and provides a healthy option for dipping.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the cheese-filled pretzels while adding freshness to your meal.
• Potato wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with soft pretzels, creating a satisfying snack combo.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy delightful Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels that will impress your family or guests! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy fresh pretzels whenever you crave them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer them warm, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the pretzels to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cooled pretzels in a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen pretzels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pretzels on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• For a quick microwave option, heat on low power for about 30 seconds, but note that this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these tasty pretzels!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella in Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that gooey texture we love, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors.

How do I ensure my Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels turn out soft and fluffy?

Make sure you’re using warm water (about 110°F) when activating your yeast and allow the dough ample time to rise. This will contribute to that delightful fluffy texture.

Can I add more herbs or spices to my Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in herbs like thyme or oregano, or even spices like garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Just be mindful not to overpower the delightful rosemary taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels as much as I do! They bring together wonderful flavors and textures that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s for game night, a cozy gathering, or just a snack on a lazy afternoon, these pretzels are bound to become a favorite. Happy baking!