If you’ve ever dreamed of pillowy, golden soft pretzels oozing with melty cheese, the Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe is for you! This playful twist on the classic snack delivers everything you adore: rich, yeasty dough with a pretzel’s signature chew, sparkles of coarse salt, and irresistibly gooey mozzarella bursting from every bite. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in, game day shenanigans, or a party platter, these homemade pretzels are bound to be everyone’s favorite. Let’s get baking and treat yourself to pure, cheesy comfort food heaven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe plays a special role, from building the soft, chewy base to delivering that molten cheese core and golden crust. Keeping things simple, you’ll find everything you need at the local grocery store—and trust me, each is essential for next-level flavor and texture.
- Active Dry Yeast: This is what gives your dough its lift and signature pillowy softness—don’t skip proofing for the best result!
- Warm Water: The perfect temperature activates the yeast and brings the dough together—double check with a thermometer for yeast happiness.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness to feed the yeast and add subtle depth to your dough.
- All-Purpose Flour: It forms the pretzel’s structure, lending both softness and just enough bite.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and deepens overall flavor, both inside and on top of your pretzel.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness to the dough and helps lock in a tender texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Using string cheese makes stuffing a breeze and ensures you get that magical cheese pull!
- Water (10 cups): For a quick boil and baking soda bath, which gives pretzels their iconic chew and deep color.
- Baking Soda: Essential in the boiling stage to create that traditional pretzel crust you crave.
- Egg Yolk (beaten with 1 tbsp water): Brushing dough before baking gives a shiny, golden finish.
- Coarse Salt: The finishing touch for that classic salty pop—generously sprinkle to taste!
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining your warm water (about 110 degrees Fahrenheit), sugar, and active dry yeast in a medium bowl. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for around five minutes. This is where the magic begins—after a few minutes, you’ll notice a lovely foam on top, a sign that your yeast is alive and kicking. If there’s no foam, the water may have been too hot or too cold; try again if needed, as this step is crucial for pillowy-soft pretzels in your Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter to your yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about five to six minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. Pop it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for an hour. This rise transforms your dough into the soft base that makes these pretzels unforgettable.
Step 3: Shape & Stuff
Now for the fun part! Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then divide it into 16 even pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, wrap it snugly around half a mozzarella stick (perfect size for a gooey center), and twist into classic pretzel shapes. Don’t stress about perfection—every twist is unique and charming in this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe.
Step 4: Baking Soda Bath
Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil in a large pot. This bath gives your pretzels that gorgeous sheen and characteristic chewy bite. Carefully lower each pretzel into the bath for 20–30 seconds, working in batches if needed. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching.
Step 5: Bake
Brush each pretzel with the egg wash, then sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Slide them into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and irresistible. The cheese will be bubbly and the exterior perfectly glossy. Serve warm, and don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces! For next-level flavor, try brushing the hot pretzels with garlic butter and dusting with parmesan before serving—absolute heaven.
How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe
Garnishes
For maximum flavor and wow-factor, always finish these pretzels with an extra brush of melted garlic butter and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan. Chopped fresh parsley or basil also adds beautiful color and a pop of freshness. If you love spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes is a delicious touch.
Side Dishes
Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe goes perfectly with a bowl of warm marinara sauce or a tangy ranch dip. For a heartier snack, pair with antipasto platters loaded with olives, cured meats, and roasted veggies—or serve alongside a crisp salad for a lighter balance. They’re also fantastic with your favorite soup, like tomato basil, for ultimate comfort food vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice each pretzel in half and skewer with a cute pick for bite-sized cheesy bliss. Arrange on a big platter surrounding a vibrant dipping sauce bowl for easy sharing. Or, stack them on a wooden board with a variety of dips for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Any way you present them, they’re guaranteed to be the star!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), cool them completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store on the countertop for one day or refrigerate for up to three days. The cheese will stay surprisingly gooey, and the pretzels maintain their lovely chew when stored properly.
Freezing
The Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe freezes beautifully! Arrange cooled pretzels on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from frozen in the oven.
Reheating
For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake pretzels for 8–10 minutes until piping hot and the cheese centers are soft again. You can also use an air fryer or toaster oven if you prefer. Avoid the microwave, which can make the dough rubbery and the cheese tough.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for that perfect pull, try swapping in cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors. Just use cheese sticks or cubes for easy stuffing.
Do I have to boil the pretzels in baking soda water?
Yes, this step is key to getting that iconic pretzel color and chewy crust. If you skip it, your pretzels will taste more like soft rolls than true pretzels. It’s worth that extra minute!
Why did my cheese leak out while baking?
This sometimes happens if seams aren’t pinched tightly around the cheese. Roll your dough evenly and make sure to completely encase the mozzarella. Even if a little leaks, they’ll still be delicious!
Can the dough be mixed ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temp, then proceed from Step 3 in the Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe.
Is it possible to make these pretzels vegan?
With a few swaps! Use plant-based butter, vegan cheese sticks, and skip the egg wash (brush with plant milk instead). The pretzels will still bake up golden and soft—just as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for the ultimate homemade treat, don’t hesitate to try this Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe. It’s easier than you think, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to put smiles on every face. Pour some good dipping sauce, gather loved ones, and savor each cheesy, golden twist—you’ve earned it!