Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels

If you’re craving a snack that’s soft, savory, and packed with melty cheese, these Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels are exactly what you need. Combining the chewy goodness of classic pretzels with fragrant rosemary and a gooey mozzarella center, this recipe brings an unforgettable flavor and texture blend to your table. Perfect for sharing or indulging yourself, these pretzels offer a delightful twist on a beloved treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy goodness: Each pretzel is stuffed with plenty of mozzarella for that irresistible, melty surprise in every bite.
• Fresh rosemary aroma: The herb infuses the dough with subtle, fragrant notes that elevate the flavor beyond ordinary pretzels.
• Soft and chewy texture: These pretzels strike the perfect balance between tender and slightly chewy, making them utterly satisfying.
• Easy to customize: The straightforward dough and fillings allow you to add your own spin to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
• Great for any occasion: Whether you need a snack, party appetizer, or fun activity, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients that each play a specific role in taste, texture, or appearance. Let’s break down what you’ll need to create these delightful treats.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base providing structure and chewiness to your pretzel dough.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully, ensuring a light, airy texture inside.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for that perfect soft consistency.
• Sugar: A pinch to fuel the yeast and add a hint of sweetness balancing the savory flavors.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the dough perfectly.
• Fresh rosemary: Chopped finely to infuse the dough with herby essence and make each bite aromatic.
• Mozzarella cheese: The star filling, shredded or cubed, that melts beautifully inside the pretzels.
• Baking soda: Used in the boiling step to give pretzels their iconic chewy crust and deep color.
• Butter: For brushing the pretzels after baking to add richness and a soft finish.

Variations for Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels

Don’t be afraid to mix things up and make these Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels your own. Here are some simple ways to customize the recipe according to your tastes or dietary preferences.

• Cheese swaps: Use provolone, cheddar, or gouda for different melt and flavor profiles.
• Herb blends: Try thyme, oregano, or basil instead of rosemary to vary the aromatic notes.
• Gluten-free dough: Substitute with a good quality gluten-free flour mix to make the recipe accessible for gluten sensitivities.
• Stuffed with extras: Add cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to the mozzarella filling for extra richness.
• Vegan option: Use a plant-based cheese and substitute butter with olive oil or vegan spread.

How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast, letting it activate until frothy. Add the flour, chopped rosemary, and salt, then knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about an hour.

Step 2: Shape and stuff the pretzels

Divide the dough into equal pieces and roll each into a rope. Make a small pocket in each rope, stuffing a generous amount of mozzarella inside, then seal the edges completely to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.

Step 3: Boil the pretzels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Briefly boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds to develop a chewy crust and that classic pretzel flavor before placing them on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to perfection

Brush the boiled pretzels with melted butter, then bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and invitingly crusty on the outside.

Step 5: Finish and enjoy

Once baked, brush again with butter and sprinkle with a little sea salt. Let cool slightly, then dive into the gooey surprises of your homemade Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels.

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels

• Use room temp ingredients: Ensure your water and other ingredients aren’t too cold to promote proper yeast activation and dough rising.
• Seal cheese well: Take care to pinch the dough edges tightly around the cheese to avoid leaks during baking.
• Don’t skip boiling: The baking soda bath is key to achieving the authentic pretzel texture and flavor.
• Fresh rosemary shines: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter, more fragrant taste.
• Rest dough after shaping: Let shaped pretzels rest a few minutes before boiling to relax the gluten and improve final texture.

How to Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels

Garnishes

Sprinkle coarse sea salt or flaky Maldon salt on top for that classic pretzel crunch and flavor burst. You can also brush with garlic butter and fresh herbs for an extra aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

Consider serving your pretzels alongside a marinara or creamy ranch dip to complement the cheesy center. Pair with fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables for a balanced snack or light meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange pretzels in a basket lined with a cozy kitchen towel for a rustic vibe. For parties, serve mini pretzels with individual ramekins of various dipping sauces like mustard, pesto, or spicy aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to extend freshness a little longer.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unbaked pretzels on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, thaw completely, boil, and bake for fresh-from-the-oven goodness anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to revive their crusty texture while melting the cheese center. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crispness.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella for this recipe?

Yes, pre-shredded mozzarella works fine, but freshly shredded cheese tends to melt more evenly and results in a creamier filling.

What makes pretzels chewy?

The combination of proper kneading, boiling in baking soda water, and baking at the right temperature creates pretzels’ signature chewy texture and golden crust.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough overnight to slow the rise, then bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Is rosemary essential for this recipe?

While rosemary adds a delightful aroma and flavor, you can substitute with other herbs or omit it if preferred, but the herb is a key part of the recipe’s charm.

Are these pretzels suitable for kids?

Definitely! The cheesy center and soft texture make these pretzels a kid-friendly snack that’s both tasty and fun to eat.

Final Thoughts

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Rosemary Pretzels truly bring comfort, flavor, and a touch of something special to your homemade baking adventures. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just yourself, they’re sure to become a treasured favorite. Don’t wait to try this recipe—you’ll love the melt-in-your-mouth cheese and aromatic rosemary in every bite!

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