Get ready to experience true comfort food bliss with Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! This crave-worthy combination brings together the iconic golden crust and chewy texture of homemade soft pretzels, with a melty mozzarella surprise tucked inside every bite. Whether you’re baking for a game day, bringing snacks to a party, or simply treating yourself, these pretzels are a showstopper—oozing cheese, loaded with flavor, and irresistibly fun to make (and eat!).

Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed how these simple pantry staples transform into the magic of Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect golden crust, soft chewy center, and gooey, cheesy heart.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and classic chewy texture for your pretzel dough.
Active dry yeast: Gives your dough the essential rise and pillowy softness.
Warm water: Activates the yeast and binds all the ingredients together for a smooth, workable dough.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the dough.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of both the dough and the overall pretzel.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and keeps the pretzels tender and flavorful.
Mozzarella cheese sticks: The star of the show! Use low-moisture, part-skim for the best ooze and stretch factor.
Baking soda: Creates that classic chewy, brown crust when the pretzels take a quick dip in the bath before baking.
Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top for that glossy, golden finish that makes these pretzels so tempting.
Coarse salt (for topping): Adds crunch and the ultimate savory touch on top of those golden brown beauties.

How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels!

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl, letting it sit until it gets nice and foamy—proof that your yeast is ready for action! Next, stir in the melted butter and salt, followed by the flour, and knead until your dough is soft and elastic. This is where all the magic begins, laying the foundation for perfectly chewy and flavorful pretzels.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your dough and place it somewhere warm for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This rise is essential for that light, fluffy texture—think of it as giving your pretzels a little rest before their big debut!

Step 3: Shape and Stuff with Mozzarella

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, flatten it slightly, and nestle a mozzarella cheese stick right in the center. Carefully seal the dough around the cheese, then shape into the classic pretzel twist, pinching the ends to hold the shape. This step is where the mozzarella magic truly happens.

Step 4: Give the Pretzels a Baking Soda Bath

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then carefully add the baking soda. Working one at a time, dip each shaped and stuffed pretzel into the bath for about 20 seconds. This quick soak helps achieve that irresistible chewy crust and helps the brilliant golden color to develop while baking.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Place pretzels onto a lined baking sheet and brush generously with an egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse salt for that signature pretzel sparkle. Bake in a preheated oven until they’re puffed up, deep golden brown, and your kitchen smells incredible. Keep an eye out for the first hints of heavenly cheese bubbling out the sides!

How to Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels!

Garnishes

Top your Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! with an extra sprinkle of coarse salt or a dash of Italian seasoning for extra color and aroma. For a touch of heat, try cracked black pepper or chili flakes. And if you love richness, a light brush of melted garlic butter right after baking takes it to the next level.

Side Dishes

Pair these cheesy pretzels with classic dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for ultimate dunkability. They’re fantastic alongside a crisp Caesar salad, hearty tomato soup, or a fun charcuterie board at your next gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! stacked high on a wooden platter with a trio of dipping sauces in small bowls. For parties, cut them into bite-sized pieces and skewer with toothpicks. You can even make mini pretzel bites for a playful twist—perfect for sharing and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! cool completely before storing in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep on your counter for up to 2 days, but for maximum freshness, pop them in the refrigerator—especially if your kitchen tends to get warm.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each pretzel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, ready for an impromptu cheesy snack whenever the craving hits!

Reheating

To revive their just-baked magic, reheat Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes right from the fridge, or 15–18 minutes if frozen. The outside will regain its chew and crisp, and the mozzarella center will become perfectly gooey again.

FAQs

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cheese sticks?

Yes, you can! Shredded mozzarella works in a pinch, but cheese sticks are less messy and make it easier to seal the dough without cheese escaping. If using shredded cheese, shape it into a tight log and pack it well inside the dough for the best results.

Do I have to do the baking soda bath?

That quick baking soda dip before baking is what gives homemade soft pretzels their distinctive chewy texture and gorgeous brown exterior. It’s absolutely worth the extra step—don’t skip it if you want that authentic pretzel bite!

What type of mozzarella is best?

Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese sticks are perfect for this recipe. They melt beautifully inside the dough and hold their shape, creating those dreamy, stretchy cheese pulls without making the dough soggy.

Can the dough be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can let the dough rise, punch it down, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to shape and bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes so it’s easy to work with. Perfect for a quick snack or entertaining guests.

How do I make mini pretzel bites?

After stuffing and sealing your ropes of dough with mozzarella, simply cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces. Give them a quick baking soda bath and bake as usual. You’ll have adorable Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! bites for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making homemade pretzels before, let Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels! be your gateway to cheesy snack heaven. They’re fun to make, wildly impressive, and completely addictive. Take the leap and treat yourself—your friends and family will be begging for more!