Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels (Printable Version)

Golden soft pretzels with melty mozzarella centers, boiled for authentic chewiness and finished with sea salt.

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F–115°F)
02 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
04 - 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 2 tsp salt

→ Boiling Solution

07 - 1/2 cup baking soda
08 - 10 cups water

→ Filling & Finishing

09 - 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 16 equal pieces
10 - Coarse sea salt for garnish
11 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, for brushing
12 - Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to rest for 5–10 minutes until foamy and activated.
02 - Add flour, 1/4 cup melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm location for 1 hour or until doubled in volume.
04 - Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
05 - Divide the dough into 16 equal portions. Flatten each piece into a rectangle, place a piece of mozzarella in the center, and seal the edges tightly, forming a ball with the cheese completely enclosed.
06 - Gently lower each stuffed dough ball into the boiling water solution for 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between each pretzel.
07 - Sprinkle the boiled pretzels with coarse sea salt and bake for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown with a shiny exterior.
08 - Immediately brush the hot pretzels with melted butter. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels combine chewy pretzel dough with gooey cheese for the ultimate snack.
02 - The boiling step with baking soda is essential for achieving the signature soft pretzel texture and glossy exterior.
03 - These pretzels are perfect for parties, game days, or a fun treat for the family.