Irresistible Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you crave a snack that perfectly balances a crunchy golden crust with a molten, cheesy center, the Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This recipe combines fresh rosemary’s fragrant aroma, sharp Parmesan’s savory touch, and stretchy mozzarella’s creamy magic, baking into soft pretzels that are just irresistible. Perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or an anytime treat, these soft pretzels are simple to make but outstanding in flavor and texture—a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Goodness: The mozzarella inside melts perfectly, creating that gooey, irresistible center everyone loves.
• Herby Freshness: Fresh rosemary infuses the dough with a subtle yet fragrant flavor boost.
• Crispy, Golden Crust: The baking soda bath and Parmesan topping create the perfect crust that’s satisfyingly crisp.
• Fun to Make: Shaping and stuffing these pretzels is a delightful hands-on experience for the whole family.
• Versatile Snack: This recipe is great as an appetizer, party snack, or a quick comfort food fix.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each brings a special layer of flavor or texture to ensure every bite is memorable.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for soft yet chewy pretzels.
• Active dry yeast: Essential for that fluffy and airy dough rise.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
• Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s taste.
• Fresh rosemary: Chopped finely to infuse fragrant herbal notes.
• Mozzarella cheese: The star of the recipe, melting inside for that perfect cheesy center.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top to add sharpness and a lovely golden crust.
• Baking soda: Used in the water bath to create the pretzel’s signature crust texture.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on after baking for a rich finish.

Variations for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

Ready to make this recipe your own? It’s incredibly easy to tweak the Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe to fit your cravings, dietary considerations, or pantry staples.

• Cheese Swaps: Try using sharp cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different melty fillings.
• Herb Mix: Swap rosemary with thyme, oregano, or basil for a new flavor twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads to make it allergen-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes inside or in the dough to turn up the heat.
• Sweet Pretzel: Skip the Parmesan, add cinnamon sugar on top, and fill with sweetened cream cheese instead.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast in warm water mixed with a pinch of sugar until bubbly and fragrant. In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and chopped fresh rosemary. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until you get a soft and elastic dough. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Shape and Stuff the Pretzels

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope and cut into smaller lengths. Flatten a small section of each piece, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then fold and seal the dough around the cheese carefully. Shape each stuffed piece into a classic pretzel form.

Step 3: Baking Soda Bath

Bring a large pot of water to boil and add baking soda to create the alkaline bath that creates that perfect pretzel crust. Dip each pretzel into the bath briefly for about 20-30 seconds, then remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Bake

Sprinkle each pretzel generously with grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more chopped rosemary for extra flavor. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Butter Finish

Immediately after baking, brush the warm pretzels with melted unsalted butter to give them a beautiful glossy finish and a buttery taste that complements the cheese and herbs perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rosemary and high-quality mozzarella make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Seal Cheese Well: Make sure the dough encases the mozzarella completely to prevent it from leaking during baking.
• Baking Soda Bath Timing: Don’t skip the dipping time – it’s key to that authentic pretzel crust and color.
• Rest Dough Properly: Allow your dough enough time to rise for that perfect soft and chewy texture.
• Serve Warm: These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh and warm when the cheese is gooey and melty.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling extra fresh rosemary or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving. You can also add a drizzle of garlic butter for an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

Serve your soft pretzels alongside tangy marinara sauce or creamy ranch dressing for dipping. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement these cheesy pretzels well for a more balanced snack or meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the pretzels on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of assorted dips. For gatherings, label each dip and add toothpicks for easy grabbing. Or slice them in half and serve as mini sandwiches stuffed with deli meats and greens for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftover pretzels to cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps their softness without becoming soggy.

Freezing

Wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to regain crispness and warm the cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust chewy and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cubes?

While cubes are easier to seal inside the dough, shredded mozzarella can be used if you tightly pinch and seal the dough edges to prevent the cheese from leaking.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary works as a substitute but use less since it has a more concentrated flavor. Or feel free to swap with other herbs like thyme or oregano.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love shaping the pretzels and the gooey cheese center is always a big hit, especially when served warm.

What alternatives can I use for dipping sauces?

Beyond marinara or ranch, try honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or even a creamy garlic aioli to complement the savory flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a warm, cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzel from the oven and savoring that perfect blend of textures and fresh flavors. This recipe is easy to follow, endlessly customizable, and delivers comfort in every bite. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging solo, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making your next favorite snack!

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