Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels! Perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, these pretzels are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour, Parmesan cheese, rosemary, butter, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let rise for 1 hour.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F.
• Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a long rope and flatten slightly.
• Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each piece of dough and wrap the dough around it, sealing tightly.
• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then transfer to a baking sheet.
• Sprinkle pretzels with coarse sea salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Popular Questions:

• Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can use any cheese of your preference for stuffing the pretzels.

• Can I substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary?

Yes, you can use dried rosemary instead of fresh, but adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more potent.

• How can I store leftover pretzels?

Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

• Can I freeze the pretzels before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pretzels before baking. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise before boiling and baking.

• What can I serve with these pretzels?

These pretzels are delicious on their own or served with mustard, marinara sauce, or a cheese dip.

• Can I make mini pretzel bites instead of large pretzels?

Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller pieces to make mini pretzel bites for a party or snack.

• How can I add spice to these pretzels?

You can add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking for a spicy kick.

• Can I make these pretzels gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free flour blend to make these pretzels gluten-free, but the texture may vary slightly.

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, but the pretzels may be denser than when using all-purpose flour.

• How long do these pretzels stay fresh?

These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked, but they can be stored for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Helpful Tips:

• Brush the pretzels with melted butter before sprinkling with sea salt for added flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs and cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
• Serve the pretzels with a side of marinara sauce for a delicious dipping option.
• For a shiny finish, brush the pretzels with an egg wash before baking.
• Feel free to customize the seasoning on top with garlic powder, onion powder, or sesame seeds.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick snack or appetizer option later.
• Adjust the salt level to your taste preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of salt in the dough.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top of the pretzels before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Serve these pretzels alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
• Get creative with shaping the pretzels, such as making twists or braids for a visually appealing presentation.

Expert Secrets:

• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
• Ensure the mozzarella cheese is well-sealed inside the dough to prevent it from leaking during boiling and baking.
• Use quality Parmesan cheese for a more pronounced flavor in the pretzels.
• Do not over-knead the dough to maintain a soft texture in the pretzels.
• Boil the pretzels in the baking soda water for the classic pretzel texture and color.
• Keep an eye on the pretzels while baking to prevent them from getting too dark.
• Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning yourself on the hot cheese filling.
• Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, basil, or oregano for a versatile flavor profile.
• Add a sprinkle of black pepper or paprika to the dough for an extra kick of flavor.
• Enjoy these pretzels fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture.