Description

These warm, soft pretzels are filled with gooey, melted mozzarella and infused with the aromatic flavor of fresh rosemary. Perfect for cheese lovers, they’re golden on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh rosemary. These pretzels are a delicious homemade treat, great for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt

Mozzarella Filling:

8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Baking Soda Bath:

4 cups water
1/4 cup baking soda

Topping:

Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh rosemary leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and stir until the dough begins to come together.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix the mozzarella cubes, chopped rosemary, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Set aside.
Shape the Pretzels: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 18 inches long).
Place a small amount of the mozzarella mixture in the center of each dough rope and pinch the ends together to seal. Shape the dough into a pretzel shape.
Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Bring 4 cups of water and 1/4 cup of baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the Pretzels: Brush each pretzel with water and sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh rosemary. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Make sure the yeast is proofed properly before adding flour to ensure the dough rises correctly.
The mozzarella filling can be adjusted to your liking; feel free to add more or less cheese.
Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant touch to the pretzels, but you can use dried rosemary if you prefer.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Snack, Appetizer, Comfort Food
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American