Mozzarella-Stuffed Pretzels

If there’s one snack that combines the joy of warm, gooey cheese and the satisfying crunch of a soft pretzel, it has to be Mozzarella-Stuffed Pretzels. These delightful little bites are perfect for game nights, parties, or just an indulgent treat when you’re craving something cheesy and delicious. Trust me, once you try these Mozzarella Pretzel Bites, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

These pretzel bites hold a special place in my heart. The combination of the warm, chewy pretzel dough and the melty mozzarella inside creates an irresistible flavor explosion. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make right in your kitchen. Kids love them, and adults can’t resist treating themselves to a few (or a lot). Plus, they shine in any party platter alongside my Cheesy Taco Cupcakes for a truly epic snack spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F–115°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is frothy. This indicates that your yeast is activated and ready to help your pretzels rise.

Step 2:

Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much.

Step 3:

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Then let it rest in a greased bowl, covered with a kitchen towel, for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 4:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 5:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Pinch the dough around the cheese to seal it, rolling it into a ball.

Step 6:

In a large pot, bring about 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop in the pretzel bites, a few at a time, and boil for 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7:

Brush each bite with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and deliciously fragrant.

Nutritional Information

These Mozzarella Pretzel Bites are a fun and tasty snack. Each serving (about two pretzel bites) contains roughly 150 calories, 6g of protein, and a comforting dose of carbohydrates. While they are a treat, they can fit into an active lifestyle with portion control.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking for a lighter take on these bites? You can use whole wheat flour for the dough, or even substitute part of the mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese option. For a more vibrant flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Pretzels make an impressive appetizer. Serve them with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping, or try ranch dressing for a fun twist. They also pair beautifully with my Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole for a comforting dinner that feels like a hug on a plate.

Common Mistakes

One common issue people face is over-boiling the pretzel bites, which can lead to a tough texture. Just 30 seconds in the baking soda bath is perfect to achieve that chewy crust. Also, make sure to seal the dough well around the cheese; otherwise, you may end up with a melty disaster in your oven.

Chef’s Notes

• Feel free to get creative by adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough for a unique flavor twist.
• If you want to freeze them, pop the raw pretzel bites in the freezer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. You can then bake them straight from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pair these bites with your favorite dipping sauce, like BBQ, mustard, or a spicy aioli, for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
• Q2: What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
  A2: Cheddar or pepper jack cheese also works well if you want to switch things up.
• Q3: How do I store leftover pretzel bites?
  A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy them warm again.

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Pretzels are not just a recipe; they’re a delicious way to gather around the table. So grab your ingredients, pour yourself a drink, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen today. You won’t regret trying these cheesy delights, and they’re an absolute must for your next snack table. For more cheesy recipes, check out my Cheesy Taco Cupcakes and indulge in the comfort of homestyle cooking.

Print