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Homemade Mozzarella Soft Pretzels

Homemade Mozzarella Soft Pretzels

Homemade Mozzarella Soft Pretzels offer a warm, chewy, and cheesy snack perfect for any occasion. These soft pretzels combine traditional pretzel dough with gooey mozzarella cheese inside, delivering a comforting and irresistible treat fresh from your oven. Ideal for casual gatherings, game days, or just indulging in a fun homemade snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (for gluten-free, use gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Filling and Finishing

  • 8 ounces cold mozzarella cheese, cut into strips or small pieces
  • 3/4 cup baking soda (for boiling bath)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
  • Coarse salt, for sprinkling on top

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: Start by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
  2. Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until you have a smooth, elastic dough.
  3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape the pretzels: Divide the dough into equal portions, then roll each into a rope. Flatten each rope slightly, add a strip or small piece of cold mozzarella in the center, and carefully seal the dough around the cheese. Shape each into a classic pretzel form.
  5. Boil in baking soda bath: Bring a large pot of water mixed with baking soda to a gentle boil. Carefully drop each pretzel in, one or two at a time, boiling for about 30 seconds on each side. This step gives pretzels their characteristic chewy crust.
  6. Bake to golden perfection: Place boiled pretzels on a lined baking sheet, brush with melted butter if desired, and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and irresistible.

Notes

  • Use cold mozzarella: Chilling the cheese before stuffing prevents it from oozing out early during shaping.
  • Seal edges tightly: Press the dough firmly around the cheese to avoid leaks while boiling and baking.
  • Don’t skip the baking soda bath: It’s essential for that authentic pretzel crust and chew.
  • Brush with butter post-bake: Adds shine and rich flavor to your pretzels.
  • Allow dough to rise properly: A well-proofed dough ensures soft, fluffy pretzels every time.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft pretzels, mozzarella, cheesy pretzels, homemade snack, baking, appetizer, party food