How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels

Have you ever wondered if pretzels could get even better than the ones you grab at the mall—soft, warm, and perfectly salted? What if I told you that you could make them at home, and not just plain pretzels, but ones stuffed with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese? That’s right—these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels take your favorite snack and turn it into something irresistible.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels

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This recipe is special because it blends the best of two worlds: the chewy, golden-brown bite of a homemade soft pretzel and the creamy, stretchy goodness of melted mozzarella tucked inside. They’re perfect for game day, family movie nights, or just when you’re craving something warm and comforting.

The best part? These pretzels are easier to make than you might think. You don’t need fancy equipment, just basic kitchen tools and some pantry staples. From start to finish, it takes about 90 minutes, including rising and baking time. On the difficulty scale, I’d call this recipe beginner-to-intermediate. Even if you’ve never made bread before, don’t worry—I’ll guide you step by step.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels:

• All-purpose flour – the base of your dough. You can also use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.
• Instant yeast – helps the dough rise quickly. Active dry yeast works too, just give it a few extra minutes to activate.
• Warm water – helps activate the yeast and form the dough.
• Sugar – a small boost to feed the yeast. Honey works great as a natural substitute.
• Salt – enhances flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese sticks or cubes – the star of the show! String cheese works well for easy stuffing.
• Baking soda – for the boiling water bath, which gives pretzels their signature chewy crust.
• Butter – melted, brushed on top for flavor and shine.
• Coarse salt – sprinkled over the pretzels before baking.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack if you want a bolder flavor.
• Use whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
• Skip the cheese for a classic soft pretzel.
• Add herbs or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels might sound tricky, but it’s actually a fun process. Let’s break it down:

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast looks foamy.
2. Stir in flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and stretchy. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

While the dough rises, cut mozzarella into sticks if you’re not using string cheese. Each pretzel will need one piece.

Step 3: Shape and Stuff

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a long rope.
3. Flatten the rope gently, place a piece of mozzarella inside, and pinch the dough around it to seal the cheese.
4. Shape the rope into a pretzel by making a U, crossing the ends, and pressing them onto the bottom. Make sure the seams are sealed so the cheese doesn’t leak.

Step 4: The Baking Soda Bath

1. Bring 8 cups of water and ⅓ cup baking soda to a boil.
2. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. This gives them their chewy texture.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

1. Brush each pretzel with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
3. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
4. Let them cool slightly before serving so the cheese inside doesn’t burn your mouth.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

When serving these Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels, presentation makes all the difference. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it’s like pizza meets pretzel.
• Arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of mustard, ranch, or garlic butter for variety.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

If you’re making them for a party, cut the pretzels into bite-sized pieces after baking and serve them as cheesy pretzel bites.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Keep leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4–5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp. The microwave works too, but the pretzels may get soft.
• Freezing: Bake the pretzels, let them cool, then freeze in a zip-top bag. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven.
• Make-ahead: You can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few fun twists on the classic mozzarella-stuffed version:

• Pizza Pretzels: Add pepperoni slices with the mozzarella for a pizza-inspired snack.
• Garlic Butter Pretzels: Brush baked pretzels with garlic butter instead of plain butter.
• Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels: Use cheddar cheese and add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Sweet Pretzels: Skip the salt and sprinkle cinnamon sugar after baking for a dessert-style pretzel.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are one of those recipes that feel like a treat but are surprisingly easy to make at home. They’re warm, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for cozy nights in, game-day spreads, or anytime you want to impress your family with something homemade.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at plain pretzels the same way again. The best part is how versatile they are—you can stuff them, dip them, or even make sweet variations. So, grab your ingredients and start baking. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing.

FAQs

1. Can I make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels without yeast?
You really need yeast for that soft, chewy texture. Baking powder won’t give the same rise.

2. How do I stop the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese. Pinch the seams firmly, and keep the cheese fully covered.

3. Are these pretzels healthy?
While they’re definitely a comfort food, you can make them a bit healthier by using whole wheat flour or reducing the salt. Mozzarella is also a good source of calcium and protein.

4. Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Cheddar, gouda, or even brie can work. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

5. Can I skip the baking soda bath?
The baking soda bath is what gives pretzels their signature chewy crust, so I don’t recommend skipping it.

6. What’s the best dipping sauce for these pretzels?
Classic choices include mustard, ranch, and marinara. For something different, try nacho cheese sauce or garlic aioli.