Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious snack that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are not just a treat for your taste buds—they’re also a joy to make. Imagine the aroma of fresh rosemary mingling with the savory scent of melting mozzarella as you pull them from the oven. They are perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving something comforting and homemade.

What I love most about these pretzels is that they pack a flavorful punch while being surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you serve them at a casual movie night or as an appetizer at your next gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful combination: The blend of rosemary and parmesan creates a delightful flavor that elevates classic pretzels.
• Fun to make: Twisting the pretzels is a great activity, especially if you have kids or friends helping out in the kitchen!
• Gooey center: Each bite reveals a warm, gooey mozzarella surprise that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dips—these pretzels can fit any occasion.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dough earlier in the day and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (About 110°F.)

For Boiling and Baking

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Melted.)
• coarse sea salt (For sprinkling.)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (Chopped.)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (Cut into 1-inch cubes.)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor in the dough.
• Use different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist!
• Herb options: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for different tastes.
• Sweet version: For a dessert option, add cinnamon and sugar to the dough and fill with chocolate instead of mozzarella.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast, ensuring your pretzels will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until combined. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the salt evenly throughout your dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

If using a stand mixer, knead the dough with the dough hook for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If mixing by hand, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes. Kneading develops gluten in the dough, giving your pretzels that perfect chewy texture.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Incorporate chopped rosemary and grated Parmesan into your dough. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl covered with a towel. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This rising time allows flavors to deepen while creating soft pretzel texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepping your baking sheet ahead of time ensures an easy transfer once you’re ready to bake!

Step 6: Shape Your Pretzels

Once risen, punch down your dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and place a cube of mozzarella in the center before folding it around the cheese to seal tightly. This step is essential for keeping that gooey cheese inside!

Step 7: Twist Into Shape

Roll each ball into a rope about 24 inches long then twist it into a classic pretzel shape on your baking sheet. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; every pretzel has its own personality!

Step 8: Boil Your Pretzels

In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to boil before carefully adding baking soda. Using a slotted spoon, drop each pretzel into boiling water for about 30 seconds each before draining on paper towels. Boiling gives those lovely pretzel characteristics we all know and love!

Step 9: Butter & Salt

Brush each pretzel with melted butter then sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt before they hit the oven! This adds flavor on top of that beautiful golden crust you’ll achieve.

Step 10: Bake

Finally, bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown! The smell wafting through your kitchen will be too good to resist.

Enjoy every gooey bite of these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels—they’re sure to become your new favorite recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

Making these pretzels is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your soft pretzel game!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh rosemary and high-quality mozzarella. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of your pretzels, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
• Don’t Skip the Boiling Step: Boiling the pretzels in the baking soda solution is crucial. This not only helps to develop that beautiful golden-brown crust but also contributes to the classic soft pretzel texture.
• Knead Properly: Whether by hand or using a stand mixer, kneading your dough until it’s smooth and elastic is vital. This process develops gluten, which gives your pretzels their chewy texture.
• Experiment with Shapes: While traditional pretzel shapes are fun, don’t hesitate to get creative! Try making pretzel bites or knots for different serving options that are just as delicious.
• Allow for Full Rising Time: Be patient during the rising phase. Allowing the dough to double in size not only improves flavor but also results in a lighter and fluffier pretzel.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels

These pretzels are perfect for sharing, whether at a cozy gathering or a casual get-together. Present them warm and fresh from the oven for an irresistible treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some additional chopped rosemary or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Spicy Mustard: Offer a small bowl of spicy mustard on the side. Its tangy kick complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of good quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors of both cheese and herbs.

Side Dishes

• Marinated Vegetables: A colorful platter of marinated vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm pretzels.
• Salad Greens: Serve with a simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens adds a nice balance to the richness of the pretzels.
• Hummus or Baba Ganoush: These creamy dips make excellent companions, adding an extra layer of flavor while keeping things light and healthy.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs can serve as a hearty side that complements the soft, cheesy texture of your pretzels.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect snack platter! Enjoy these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels at any time—your friends (and taste buds) will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the dough in advance or even bake and store them for later enjoyment, making it easy to have a delicious snack on hand whenever you crave something special.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you live in a humid area, it’s best to refrigerate them.
• Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the baked pretzels to cool completely.
• Wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen pretzels in the oven: preheat to 350°F (175°C), unwrap, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but they may lose some of their crispy texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful pretzels!

Can I make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels without yeast?

Yes! You can use baking powder as a substitute. However, the texture will differ slightly from traditional yeast-based pretzels.

What is the best way to enjoy Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels?

These pretzels are delicious on their own or paired with dips like marinara sauce or a creamy cheese dip! Enjoy them warm for the gooey mozzarella experience.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel slightly puffy and soft. You can gently poke it with your finger; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready!

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels! They’re not only fun to create but also make every gathering that much more special. Whether you’re snacking solo or sharing with friends and family, these pretzels are bound to impress. Happy baking, and enjoy every gooey bite!