Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels
Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels are a delightful snack with gooey cheese wrapped in soft, freshly baked dough, perfect for game days or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast This helps your pretzels rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C) Activates the yeast for airy dough.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar Balances the savory components.
- 1 tsp salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted Adds richness.
Filling and Topping Ingredients
- 8 oz block of cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes The creamy, melty goodness.
- 10 cups water For boiling the pretzels.
- 2/3 cup baking soda For pretzel flavor and browning.
- 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash) Creates a golden glaze.
- Coarse salt for sprinkling The finishing touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Stir in the granulated sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Once frothy, add salt, melted butter, and flour into the mixture. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Once risen, punch the dough down, divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Shape and Boil
- Flatten each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Place a cube of cheese in the center, pinch the dough around the cheese to seal, and shape it into a pretzel.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully stir in the baking soda.
- Drop each stuffed pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to prepared baking sheets.
Baking
- Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle coarse salt on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving, ensuring the cheese is melty.
Notes
For an enhanced flavor, sprinkle pretzels with everything bagel seasoning or serve with mustard or cheese sauce for dipping.