🧀🥨 Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels (Gooey, Cheesy Delight!)
These homemade soft pretzels are stuffed with stretchy mozzarella, brushed with buttery goodness, and sprinkled with salt—perfect for game day, parties, or a savory snack!
⏲️ Prep Time: 1 hr 30 mins (includes rising) | Cook Time: 15 mins | Makes: 8 pretzels
📝 Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1½ cups warm water (110–115°F)
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
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4½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for chewiness)
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 tsp salt
For the Filling & Boiling:
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8 mozzarella cheese sticks (or 1½ cups shredded mozzarella)
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½ cup baking soda (for boiling)
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8 cups water
For Topping:
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1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
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Coarse salt (or everything bagel seasoning)
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Melted butter for brushing
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Activate the Yeast
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Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let sit 5–10 mins until foamy.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
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In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
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Add yeast mixture and melted butter, kneading until smooth (~5 mins by hand or stand mixer).
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Cover and let rise 1 hour (or until doubled).
3️⃣ Shape & Stuff
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Divide dough into 8 equal pieces.
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Flatten each piece, place a mozzarella stick in the center, and seal tightly (no cheese leaks!).
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Roll into 18-inch ropes, then twist into pretzel shapes.
4️⃣ Boil & Bake
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
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Boil 8 cups water + ½ cup baking soda in a pot.
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Boil each pretzel 30 seconds per side, then transfer to the baking sheet.
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Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with salt, and bake 12–15 mins until golden.
5️⃣ Serve Warm!
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Brush with melted butter right out of the oven.
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Pair with marinara, cheese sauce, or mustard.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ Prevent cheese leaks: Seal dough tightly and don’t overstuff.
✔ No baking soda? Boiling is optional, but it gives the classic pretzel crust.
✔ Make ahead: Freeze unbaked pretzels, then boil/bake when needed.
🔥 Why You’ll Love Them
✅ Ooey-gooey melted cheese in every bite
✅ Crispy outside, soft inside
✅ Better than Auntie Anne’s!
Warning: Highly addictive! 😋
P.S. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to the cheese filling! 🌶️