Golden pretzels stuffed with melty mozzarella, fragrant rosemary, and Parmesan, offering the ultimate savory snack or appetizer!
Servings and Timing:
Prep Time: 30 mins
Rise Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
Servings: 8 pretzels
Dietary: Vegetarian-friendly
Ingredients:
Pretzel Dough:
All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Warm water
Sugar
Salt
Mozzarella Filling:
Fresh mozzarella cubes
Fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Baking Soda Bath:
Water
Baking soda
Topping:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh rosemary leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy.
Add flour and salt, kneading until smooth, elastic dough forms.
Cover dough; let rise 30-45 mins until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine mozzarella cubes, chopped rosemary, and Parmesan cheese for filling.
Divide dough into 8 portions. Roll each into ropes, flatten slightly, fill with mozzarella mixture, fold, seal, and form into pretzel shapes.
Boil water, remove from heat, add baking soda, stirring to dissolve.
Dip pretzels in baking soda bath for 30 seconds each. Transfer to baking sheet.
Sprinkle tops with grated Parmesan and rosemary leaves.
Bake 15-20 mins until golden brown and crispy.
Additional Notes:
Serve warm for maximum cheesy goodness.
Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
About This Recipe
Inspired by classic soft pretzels, these Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels elevate snacking. The combination of melted mozzarella, fresh rosemary, and crispy Parmesan crust makes these a gourmet yet approachable treat for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Proofing Yeast: Ensure yeast is frothy to guarantee dough rise.
Shaping Pretzels: Seal dough securely around cheese to prevent leakage during baking.
Quick Tip: Brush pretzels lightly with water before topping for a crispier crust.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts best, but shredded mozzarella works in a pinch.
Herbs: Thyme or oregano can substitute rosemary for variety.
Parmesan: Pecorino Romano is a flavorful alternative.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Flavor Enhancements: Try stuffing with pepperoni, olives, or garlic for unique flavors.
Serving Ideas: Enjoy with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or spicy mustard.
Drink Pairing: Pairs beautifully with chilled sparkling water, beer, or white wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers up to 3 days; reheat gently in oven or toaster.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 5-8 mins until crispy and warmed through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare dough and filling ahead, refrigerate separately, and assemble pretzels when ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per pretzel)
Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 13g
Carbs: 42g
Fat: 9g
Dietary Highlights: High in protein, vegetarian-friendly snack.
FAQs
Q: Can these pretzels be frozen?
A: Yes! Freeze after baking; reheat directly from frozen in oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: My pretzels burst while baking—why?
A: Ensure the dough is sealed firmly around cheese filling; avoid overstuffing.
Q: Can I skip the baking soda bath?
A: The baking soda bath creates the classic pretzel crust; skipping it will change the texture significantly.