Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Soft pretzels are already an irresistible snack, but when you take them up a notch by stuffing them with gooey mozzarella cheese and infusing them with fragrant rosemary and parmesan, you get a next-level indulgence. These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels combine the best of both worlds—crispy golden exteriors with a soft, pillowy inside, bursting with melty cheese.

The combination of parmesan and rosemary adds a rich depth of flavor, while the classic pretzel dough gives that signature chewy texture. Whether you’re serving these at a game day party, as a cozy snack, or even as an appetizer for a gathering, they are guaranteed to impress. The aroma of freshly baked bread with hints of rosemary and parmesan will fill your kitchen, making these pretzels just as enjoyable to make as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

• Melty, Cheesy Goodness – Every bite is filled with warm, gooey mozzarella that stretches beautifully.
• Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture – The classic pretzel dough bakes to perfection, giving a golden-brown crust with a fluffy inside.
• Garlic, Rosemary, and Parmesan Infusion – The combination of these flavors creates a sophisticated yet comforting taste.
• Fun to Make – Twisting and stuffing the dough is a rewarding process, making this a great recipe for family baking.
• Versatile Snack or Appetizer – Serve them at parties, alongside soup, or as a movie-night treat.
• Easy to Customize – Swap out the cheese, add more herbs, or even sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 large pretzels

Nutritional Information (Per Pretzel)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

For the Filling & Topping:

• 8 mozzarella cheese sticks (or 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into strips)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 8 cups water
• ⅓ cup baking soda

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp water

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Add in the melted butter, salt, and flour, then mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Divide and Shape

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 12-inch rope, then flatten it slightly to create a long strip.

Step 4: Stuff with Mozzarella

Place a mozzarella stick in the center of each strip of dough. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges tightly to seal. Carefully roll it into a rope again to ensure the cheese is fully enclosed.

Step 5: Shape into Pretzels

Take each cheese-filled rope and twist it into a pretzel shape by crossing the ends over each other and pressing them down.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Slowly add ⅓ cup of baking soda (it will bubble up). Using a slotted spoon, dip each pretzel in the water for 15-20 seconds, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Add Seasonings

Brush each pretzel with egg wash. Sprinkle with grated parmesan, fresh rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm while the mozzarella is still gooey!

Ingredient Background

Mozzarella: The Ultimate Melty Cheese

Mozzarella is the star of these stuffed pretzels, creating a stretchy, cheesy center. This cheese originates from Italy and is known for its mild flavor and incredible melting ability. Traditional fresh mozzarella has a soft texture, while low-moisture mozzarella sticks work well for stuffing because they hold their shape while still becoming perfectly gooey when baked. The key to the best results is using high-quality mozzarella with good elasticity for that irresistible cheese pull.

Rosemary and Parmesan: The Flavor Boosters

Fresh rosemary adds a warm, pine-like aroma that pairs beautifully with the nutty, salty flavor of parmesan. Rosemary is often used in Mediterranean cuisine, and its slightly peppery notes elevate the richness of the pretzels. Parmesan, an aged hard cheese, brings a deep umami taste and a slightly crunchy texture when sprinkled on top. The combination of these two ingredients gives the pretzels a gourmet touch.

Baking Soda Bath: The Secret to Authentic Pretzels

A baking soda bath is what gives pretzels their distinct chewy texture and deep golden-brown crust. This step mimics the traditional lye bath used in German-style pretzels. When the dough is boiled in baking soda water before baking, it enhances the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for the rich color and slightly crisp exterior. Skipping this step would result in a texture more like breadsticks rather than classic pretzels.

Technique Tips for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

1. Proper Dough Kneading for the Best Texture

Kneading the dough well ensures the pretzels turn out soft and chewy. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour while kneading. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Letting it rise properly also helps create a light and fluffy interior.

2. Sealing the Mozzarella Inside

To prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking, make sure to completely seal the dough around the mozzarella stick. Pinch the edges tightly and roll the dough gently to secure it. If any cheese does escape while baking, don’t worry—it will crisp up slightly, adding a delicious cheesy crust.

3. Controlling the Baking Soda Bath Timing

Dipping the pretzels in the baking soda bath for 15-20 seconds is key. Any longer, and they may develop a bitter taste; too short, and they won’t achieve that classic pretzel color and chewiness. Be sure to shake off excess water before transferring them to the baking sheet to prevent soggy spots.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Pretzel Bites for Easy Snacking

Instead of making full-sized pretzels, cut the dough into smaller pieces, stuff them with mozzarella, and roll them into mini bites. Follow the same boiling and baking steps, then serve them with marinara or cheese dip for a fun party snack.

2. Pretzel Knots for a Rustic Look

For a more casual presentation, twist the stuffed dough into knots instead of traditional pretzel shapes. This gives them a rustic look and makes them easy to grab and eat without worrying about perfect shaping.

3. Stuffed Pretzel Breadsticks

Skip the classic pretzel twist altogether and roll the stuffed dough into breadstick shapes. Bake them until golden and serve alongside warm garlic butter or dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.

Freezing and Storing Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

1. Storing Leftovers

These pretzels taste best fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soft and chewy instead of crispy.

2. Freezing Unbaked Pretzels

To freeze unbaked pretzels, shape and stuff them as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to bake, dip them in the baking soda bath and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

3. Freezing Baked Pretzels

If you’ve already baked the pretzels, let them cool completely before freezing. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to bring back the fresh-baked texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Whole Wheat Dough for Extra Fiber

Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add more fiber and nutrients. Whole wheat pretzels will have a slightly denser texture but will still be deliciously soft and chewy.

2. Light Cheese Options

Use part-skim mozzarella instead of full-fat for a lighter version without sacrificing the gooey cheese factor. Alternatively, try stuffing them with ricotta or feta for a different flavor twist.

3. Air-Fried Pretzels for Less Oil

Instead of baking, cook these pretzels in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. This method reduces the need for excess butter while still giving a crispy, golden crust.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Game Day or Movie Night Snack

These stuffed pretzels are the ultimate game-day snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any gathering.

2. Brunch or Breakfast Side

Pair them with scrambled eggs and a side of fresh fruit for a unique brunch dish. The combination of melted cheese and rosemary makes them a comforting addition to any breakfast spread.

3. Appetizer for Dinner Parties

Serve these pretzels alongside a charcuterie board with cured meats, olives, and spreads. The warm, cheesy interior adds a gourmet touch to any appetizer selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

2. What’s the best way to prevent cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to completely seal the edges of the dough and press firmly around the mozzarella to secure it inside.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack are great alternatives that melt well.

4. How do I know when the pretzels are done baking?

They should be deep golden brown on the outside and sound slightly hollow when tapped.

5. Can I make gluten-free stuffed pretzels?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp of xanthan gum if your flour doesn’t already contain it.

6. Why is my dough too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, add a little more flour (one tablespoon at a time) until it becomes smooth and elastic.

7. What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary works as a substitute—use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary instead of fresh.

8. Can I skip the egg wash?

Yes, but the pretzels won’t have the same glossy, golden finish. Brush with melted butter instead for a similar effect.

9. Can I stuff the pretzels with other fillings?

Definitely! Try stuffing them with jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a bit of pesto for a flavor boost.

10. What dipping sauces go best with these pretzels?

Marinara, garlic butter, ranch, honey mustard, and spicy aioli all pair well with the flavors of these pretzels.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are the ultimate combination of chewy, cheesy, and savory goodness. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their rich flavors, golden crust, and gooey cheese filling, these pretzels are sure to become a household favorite. Try making a batch today and experience the magic of homemade soft pretzels with a gourmet twist!

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