Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels (Print Format)

Warm, soft pretzels filled with gooey mozzarella, rosemary, and parmesan. Cheesy, golden, and irresistible.

# Ingredients:

01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
03 - 1 cup warm water
04 - 1 tablespoon sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon salt

→ Mozzarella Filling

06 - 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Baking Soda Bath

09 - 4 cups water
10 - 1/4 cup baking soda

→ Topping

11 - Grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Fresh rosemary leaves, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
02 - Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, kneading until a smooth and elastic dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for 30-45 minutes, allowing it to double in size.
03 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
04 - In a small bowl, combine mozzarella cubes, chopped rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese to make the filling.
05 - Divide the risen dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope. Flatten each rope slightly and spoon the mozzarella and rosemary filling onto the center. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges, forming a pretzel shape.
06 - In a large saucepan or kettle, bring 4 cups of water to near boiling. Remove from heat and add baking soda, stirring until dissolved.
07 - Carefully lower each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds, then transfer them to the lined baking sheet.
08 - Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over each pretzel and garnish with a few fresh rosemary leaves.
09 - Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese crust becomes crispy.
10 - Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving.

# Tips:

01 - For added depth of flavor, you can brush melted butter over the warm pretzels just before serving.
02 - Customize the filling by adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness.
03 - If you prefer a lighter version, you can use part-skim mozzarella or a combination of mozzarella and cream cheese for the filling.
04 - Enjoy the pretzels while they are still warm for the best taste and texture.