Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown pretzel stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, infused with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan. These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are a showstopper snack or appetizer that combines the comforting chew of soft pretzels with the irresistible pull of melted cheese. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy treat, this Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these delectable bites from scratch.

Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

Filling and Topping

• 8 mozzarella sticks, halved
• 2 tbsp baking soda
• 4 cups boiling water
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Calories per serving: ~220 kcal

Directions for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

1. Activate the Yeast

The first step to achieving fluffy pretzels is activating the yeast correctly:

• Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
• Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This foam indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Make the Dough

Creating a perfectly balanced dough is key to the soft, chewy texture of these pretzels:

• Add the flour, salt, rosemary, and Parmesan to the bowl with the yeast mixture.
• Mix until the dough starts to come together. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

3. Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising:

• Cut the mozzarella sticks in half, creating 16 pieces.
• Set them aside in the refrigerator to keep them firm and easy to handle.

4. Shape the Pretzels

Once the dough has risen:

• Punch it down to release any air bubbles and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a flat rectangle, about 6 inches long.
• Place a piece of mozzarella in the center of each rectangle, wrap the dough tightly around it, and seal the edges by pinching them together.
• Shape each filled dough piece into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them down onto the bottom curve.

5. Boil the Pretzels

The boiling step is essential for achieving the classic pretzel texture and golden color:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Dissolve the baking soda in 4 cups of boiling water in a large pot.
• Gently drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, using a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake the Pretzels

To finish:

• Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to enhance browning.
• Sprinkle with additional Parmesan for a cheesy crust.
• Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate gooey cheese pull and flavor explosion.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

1. Proper Dough Sealing: Ensure the edges of the dough are tightly sealed around the mozzarella to prevent leakage during baking.
2. Cold Cheese: Keep the mozzarella sticks cold to make wrapping easier and to ensure they don’t melt too quickly.
3. Uniform Pretzel Sizes: For even baking, try to make the pretzels as uniform in size as possible.
4. Baking Soda Bath: Don’t skip or reduce the baking soda in the boiling step. It’s crucial for achieving the iconic pretzel flavor and color.
5. Extra Parmesan: For more cheesy goodness, sprinkle additional Parmesan on the pretzels right before serving.

Benefits of This Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

1. Homemade Goodness: You control the quality of ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought pretzels.
2. Customizable: Add different herbs, spices, or cheese types to suit your taste.
3. Comfort Food: Combines warm, soft pretzels with the irresistible allure of melted cheese.
4. Great for Sharing: Perfect as a party appetizer or snack for friends and family.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza or bread dough to save time. However, homemade dough enhances the flavor and texture.

2. What other cheeses can I use?

Cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives for stuffing.

3. Can I freeze these pretzels?

Yes! Freeze the pretzels after baking. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

4. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the dough is tightly sealed around the mozzarella and pinch any open seams.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are a delightful combination of savory, cheesy, and aromatic flavors. With a little time and effort, you can create these gourmet snacks at home, perfect for any occasion. Follow the steps, tips, and variations in this guide, and you’ll have a recipe that becomes a family favorite. Happy baking!