There’s something magical about the combination of warm, soft pretzels with a melty mozzarella center, infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the salty crunch of Parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together, planning a family movie night, or looking for a fun snack to make with your kids, Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are the perfect treat. The warm dough, gooey cheese, and crispy outer layer will have everyone reaching for more. This recipe takes the classic soft pretzel to new heights with rich, savory flavors, making it an irresistible option for any occasion.
Inspired by the comforting flavors of rosemary bread and mozzarella-stuffed pizza, these pretzels marry the best of both worlds. They’re a delightful twist on a classic snack, sure to impress your guests and become a favorite recipe in your household.
Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Stuffed Pretzels
Irresistibly Cheesy
Imagine biting into a soft, golden pretzel and discovering a warm, gooey mozzarella center. The mozzarella melts to perfection, creating a delightful contrast with the slightly crispy outside. The rich flavors of Parmesan and the fresh rosemary elevate each bite, making these pretzels something truly special.
Flavorful Toppings
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary, and a pinch of coarse salt on top adds another layer of flavor. The combination of savory and salty toppings will have your taste buds dancing, making these pretzels addictive!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a savory snack for your family, or just treating yourself after a long day, these mozzarella-stuffed pretzels are the perfect choice. They’re easy to make and sure to impress everyone around you.
Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
To create these mouthwatering mozzarella-stuffed pretzels, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Boiling Solution
- 10 cups water (for boiling)
- ¼ cup baking soda
For the Toppings
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for topping)
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels. The process may take some time, but trust us, it’s worth every minute!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
To begin, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step helps activate the yeast, ensuring your pretzels rise beautifully.
Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter into the yeast mixture. Stir until everything is incorporated and a dough begins to form. Once the dough starts coming together, transfer it to a floured surface.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Kneading is essential to achieve the soft, stretchy texture that soft pretzels are known for. Gently knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten in the dough, giving your pretzels their perfect texture.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and leave it in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size during this time. This is the crucial step in making your pretzels light and fluffy.
Step 4: Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 12-inch rope, ensuring the dough is smooth and even throughout.
Now comes the fun part: the mozzarella stuffing! Place a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese along the center of each rope. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges together to seal.
Next, shape the dough into a classic pretzel form by twisting the ends into a loop and folding them over. Press the ends gently to secure the pretzel shape. Repeat this process for each dough portion.
Step 5: Boil the Pretzels
To achieve that iconic pretzel texture, you’ll need to boil them briefly before baking. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, stir in the baking soda. The baking soda creates that signature chewy texture and deep golden color.
Carefully lower the shaped pretzels into the boiling water, one at a time, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove each pretzel from the water and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat for all the pretzels.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Once the pretzels have been boiled, it’s time to add the finishing touches. In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Brush each pretzel generously with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
Sprinkle chopped rosemary, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of coarse salt over each pretzel. These toppings not only add flavor but also a touch of elegance that will impress your guests.
Step 7: Bake the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once your oven is hot, place the pretzels in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown. The smell of rosemary and Parmesan will fill your kitchen as the pretzels bake to perfection.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. When you cut into them, you’ll be greeted with a soft, warm interior and gooey mozzarella cheese that will melt in your mouth. Serve these delicious treats while they’re still warm and enjoy the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Making Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels
1. Don’t Skip the Boiling Step
Boiling the pretzels in the baking soda solution is essential to achieving that classic pretzel texture. It helps create a chewy, golden crust that is simply irresistible.
2. Use Fresh Mozzarella
For the best cheesy center, use fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded cheese. Fresh mozzarella melts better and provides that perfect, gooey filling inside your pretzel.
3. Experiment with Flavors
While the rosemary and Parmesan combination is a winner, don’t be afraid to try different toppings or fillings. You could add garlic, herbs, or even bacon for an extra twist. The possibilities are endless!
4. Make Ahead and Freeze
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the pretzels up to the boiling step, freeze them on a baking sheet, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush with the egg wash and bake from frozen—no need to thaw.
Serving Suggestions
These mozzarella-stuffed rosemary Parmesan soft pretzels are perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Game Day: Serve these cheesy pretzels alongside your favorite dips like mustard, cheese sauce, or marinara sauce for a winning snack during the big game.
- Movie Night: Pair them with a cold drink and a cozy movie for a delicious movie night experience.
- Parties and Gatherings: These pretzels are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. They’re great for sharing and will leave your guests raving about the flavors.
- Quick Snack: Need a satisfying snack? Grab one of these warm, cheesy pretzels for a quick treat that’ll fill you up.
Conclusion
Whether you’re making these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe is sure to impress. The dough is soft and pillowy, the mozzarella center is gooey and delicious, and the rosemary-Parmesan topping adds a savory twist that takes these pretzels to a whole new level.
Once you try making these pretzels at home, you’ll never want to settle for store-bought ones again. Share them with family and friends, or enjoy them on your own—they’re that good! Enjoy the flavors, the fun, and the satisfaction of creating these soft pretzels from scratch.