Introduction
Transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary snacks with this recipe for Ooey-Gooey Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels! Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, these pretzels are surprisingly easy to make and deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family (and yourself!) with this incredibly satisfying treat.
Why This Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between salty and cheesy, soft and chewy. The simple dough comes together quickly, and the mozzarella filling adds a delightful surprise with every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s both impressive and achievable, even on your busiest days.
Key Ingredients
- 🥨 2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 💨 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 🥄 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🥣 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 🧀 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 🧂 Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Add salt and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3️⃣ Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4️⃣ Add melted butter to the dough and knead for another minute to incorporate.
5️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6️⃣ Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7️⃣ Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
8️⃣ Roll each piece into a 12-inch rope.
9️⃣ Place a heaping tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese (and parsley, if using) in the center of each rope.
🔟 Fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the edges to seal.
1️⃣1️⃣ Shape each pretzel by twisting the ends together.
1️⃣2️⃣ Place pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
1️⃣3️⃣ Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
1️⃣4️⃣ Immediately sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Handy Tips
- For easier rolling, lightly flour your work surface.
- If your dough seems too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this will ensure even baking.
Heat Control
Baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures the pretzels get beautifully golden brown and the cheese melts perfectly without burning. Lowering the temperature might result in pale pretzels, while increasing it risks burning the outside before the inside is cooked through.
Crunch Factor
The outside of these pretzels achieves a delightful crispiness from the baking process, while the inside remains soft and chewy, creating a wonderful textural contrast. The coarse sea salt adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, brush the pretzels with an egg wash before baking.
- Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for a savory twist.
- Use different cheeses for variations – try provolone, pepper jack, or even a blend.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but reheating them in the oven for a few minutes will restore some of their crispness.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These pretzels make a fantastic homemade gift! Package them in a pretty basket lined with parchment paper or a decorative tin. Tie a ribbon around it for an extra touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Jalapeño: Add chopped jalapeños to the cheese filling for a kick.
🌟 Garlic Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with garlic powder into the dough.
🌟 Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
🌟 Herb & Garlic: Add dried oregano, thyme, and garlic powder to the dough.
Troubleshooting
- Dough too sticky: Add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Pretzels too pale: Increase oven temperature by 10-15 degrees and bake for a few more minutes.
- Cheese not melted: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake for a few more minutes.
FAQ
- Can I freeze these pretzels? Yes, freeze baked pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses.
- What if my yeast doesn’t foam? It may be dead; use fresh yeast for the best results.
- Can I make these ahead of time? You can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Shape and bake as directed.
Conclusion
These Ooey-Gooey Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to whip up, even on a busy schedule. Share your creations with us on social media using #OoeyGooeyPretzels – we can’t wait to see your delicious results! Enjoy!
30-Minute Cheesy Pretzel Perfection
Deliciously cheesy pretzels that are quick to make and perfect for snacking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (110u00b0F)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 5 minutes.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450u00b0F (232u00b0C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully add pretzels to the boiling water for 30 seconds.
- Remove pretzels and place them back on the baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Insert shredded cheddar cheese into the center of each pretzel.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the dough.
- Serve with a side of mustard or cheese dip for an added treat.