full recipe for Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels — golden, cheesy, herby, and perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
🧀 Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels
🔹 Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
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4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For Stuffing:
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8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small sticks (string cheese works great)
Baking Soda Bath:
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10 cups water
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⅔ cup baking soda
Topping:
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1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Extra chopped rosemary (optional)
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Coarse sea salt
🔹 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
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In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
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Add salt, chopped rosemary, and melted butter. Mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
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Knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour (until doubled in size).
2. Prep the Cheese & Water Bath
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Cut mozzarella into about 12 small sticks.
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Bring 10 cups of water + baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Reduce heat and keep it hot (you’ll dip the pretzels here before baking).
3. Shape the Pretzels
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Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
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Roll each piece into a rope (~18 inches long), flatten it, and place a mozzarella stick in the center.
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Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch to seal, then twist into a pretzel shape.
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Tip: Make sure the cheese is completely sealed to avoid leaking.
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4. Baking Soda Bath
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Carefully dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds, then place on the baking sheet.
5. Bake
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Brush pretzels with egg wash.
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Sprinkle with Parmesan, extra rosemary (optional), and sea salt.
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Bake 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
🔹 Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm — they’re best right out of the oven!
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Pair with marinara, garlic butter, or a mustard cheese dip.