Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something truly magical about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are my latest obsession, and believe me, the moment you pull them from the oven, you’ll be hooked too. Each soft, chewy bite holds a gooey mozzarella surprise, perfectly complemented by the savory aroma of rosemary and the rich depth of Parmesan. Not only are they an impressive touch for your next gathering or a cozy movie night, but they also offer a delightful twist on traditional snacks, making them a fun project to whip up during the weekend. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can join in the indulgence. Ready to dive into this cheesy adventure with me? Let’s get started! Why These Pretzels Will Wow You Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is a perfect blend of gooey mozzarella and aromatic rosemary, making these pretzels a flavor sensation. Endless Customization: Feel free to experiment with different cheese and herb combinations. Try cheddar or even blue cheese for a unique twist! Simple Ingredients: Using just a handful of basic pantry staples, you’ll whip up these delights without any special tools or ingredients. Fun to Make Together: Gather friends or family and make an event out of it. Rolling and shaping pretzels is a blast, especially when topped with coarse sea salt! Delightfully Indulgent: Perfectly chewy with a crunchy exterior, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser at parties, or enjoy them cozy at home with some marinara or mustard for dipping. Upgrade your snack game with these delicious Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels, and if you’re looking for another cheesy delight, check out my Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken for a perfect meal pairing! Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the dough; use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for gluten-free pretzels. Instant Yeast – Leavens the dough, creating a light texture; can substitute with active dry yeast, adjusting the proofing time. Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens dough; it’s essential for the overall taste. Sugar – Aids in browning and feeds the yeast; reduce quantity for a less sweet result. Warm Water – Activates yeast and hydrates the flour; aim for a temperature of around 110°F (43°C). For Boiling & Baking Baking Soda – Used in the boiling process to create a chewy crust; essential for the iconic soft pretzel texture. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute olive oil for a dairy-free option. Coarse Sea Salt – For sprinkling on top; enhances flavor and adds a lovely finish. For Flavor Fresh Rosemary – Offers a fragrant, savory touch; if fresh isn’t available, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary works well. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides salty depth and richness; alternatives include Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Mozzarella Cheese – Ensures a melty, gooey center; feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda, adjusting salt levels accordingly. Now that you have all the ingredients for these delectable Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels, you’re one step closer to impressing your friends and family with a homemade snack that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Step 1: Prepare Dough In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of warm water (around 110°F or 43°C), 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture while stirring, forming a shaggy dough. Step 2: Knead the Dough Transfer the shaggy dough onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it bounces back slightly when poked. Once kneaded, place the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Step 3: Incorporate Flavors After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the dough. Knead the herbs and cheese into the dough until evenly distributed, ensuring every pretzel will be packed with flavor from the mozzarella stuffed rosemary Parmesan soft pretzels. Step 4: Preheat Oven Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your pretzels have a perfect surface for baking, allowing for an even, crispy texture. Prepare a pot of water for boiling—add 1/2 cup of baking soda to 8 cups of water, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Step 5: Shape Pretzels Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a rope about 18 inches long. To create the pretzel shape, twist the dough into a loop and cross the ends. Bring the ends down to form a classic pretzel shape. Make sure each pretzel is neat, as the presentation matters for your mozzarella stuffed rosemary Parmesan soft pretzels. Step 6: Boil the Pretzels Carefully place each shaped pretzel into the simmering baking soda solution, boiling them for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is crucial for achieving that distinctive chewy crust characteristic of soft pretzels. After boiling, remove them with a slotted spatula, allowing the excess water to drip off before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Step 7: Bake Pretzels Brush each pretzel with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the pretzels are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen. This baking step seals the flavors of the mozzarella stuffed rosemary Parmesan soft pretzels while giving them that irresistible crust. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce—such as mustard or marinara. The gooey mozzarella center will melt beautifully, making these pretzels a delightful snack that everyone will enjoy! What to Serve with Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Discover the perfect pairings to elevate your cheesy snack experience to the next level. Creamy Mustard Dip: A tangy and smooth mustard dip adds a zesty kick, balancing the pretzels’ rich flavors perfectly. Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara for dipping; the tomato’s acidity complements the savory cheese and herbs beautifully. Savory Cheese Platter: Enhance your appetizer spread with a variety of cheeses, crackers, and olives for a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette brings freshness, making each bite of pretzel feel even more indulgent. Roasted Garlic Hummus: This creamy dip is great for a healthy touch, while its earthiness pairs excellently with the aromatic rosemary. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the experience, with its bright acidity highlighting the pretzel’s cheesy richness. Craft Beer: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale cuts through the richness, creating a refreshing balance for your palate. Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy honey mustard provides a lovely contrast, elevating the simple pretzel into a gourmet delight. Dessert Option: Pair with chocolate fondue for a fun dessert twist; the melted chocolate complements the pretzel’s salty crust exquisitely. How to Store and Freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy them fresh within this timeframe for the best texture and flavor. Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving to restore some of that chewy goodness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisped. Expert Tips for Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Temperature Matters: Ensure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C) for yeast activation. Too hot or too cold can hinder rising. Don’t Skip Boiling: Boiling the pretzels in a baking soda solution is essential for achieving that classic chewy crust. Skipping this step will affect texture. Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Insufficient kneading can lead to denser pretzels rather than those delightful, soft centers. Fill Generously: When shaping your pretzels, don’t be shy with the mozzarella. A generous filling ensures that each bite is gooey and satisfying. Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different; oven temperature variations can lead to over-browning or uneven cooking. Make Ahead: These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! Make Ahead Options These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and shape the pretzels up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the formed pretzels with plastic wrap and refrigerate them, which not only saves you time but also enhances their flavor as they rest. When you’re ready to enjoy them, boil them directly from the fridge, then bake as instructed. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before boiling to maintain that wonderful texture. This way, you’ll have delicious, warm pretzels in no time, ready for any gathering! Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these pretzels to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs! Cheese Swap: Try substituting mozzarella with gouda or cheddar for a bolder flavor. Both options melt beautifully and add a delicious twist—perfect for cheese lovers! Herb Variations: Instead of rosemary, use fresh thyme or oregano. Each herb brings its unique aroma, enhancing the pretzels in delightful new ways. Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the dough for a little heat. This simple tweak can elevate your pretzel experience with a spicy kick. Nutty Addition: Mix in some finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for an unexpected crunch. The nutty flavor contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior. Dairy-Free: Opt for nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan-friendly version. It still packs a punch with umami flavor without any dairy. Sweet Twist: Experiment by adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a slightly sweet flavor. Serve these pretzels with a cinnamon sugar blend for a fun dessert. Garlic Lover’s Dream: Add garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to the dough for an aromatic flair. Each bite will tantalize your taste buds, making these pretzels an irresistible choice. Flavorful Dips: Explore different dipping sauces—serve with a Herbed Yogurt Dip or a zesty Chipotle Aioli for a flavorful experience that takes your pretzel game to the next level. These delicious twists will surely make your Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels a hit! If you want to explore more cheesy recipes, check out my Garlic Parmesan Pasta for another creamy delight. Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting fresh rosemary? Select fresh rosemary that is vibrant green, fragrant, and free from any dark spots or wilting. The leaves should be firm, indicating freshness. If fresh rosemary is unavailable, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, but the flavor may be slightly milder. How long can I store cooked pretzels at room temperature? You can store your Mozambique Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For the best texture, enjoy them while fresh. If you have leftovers, consider refrigerating them for up to 5 days—just remember to reheat before serving. Can I freeze these stuffed pretzels? What’s the best way? Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for added protection against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through. What should I do if my dough isn’t rising? If your dough isn’t rising, there are a few troubleshooting steps to consider. First, check the temperature of your warm water; it should be around 110°F (43°C). If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If you suspect it’s old, try proofing it first: mix the yeast with warm water and sugar, and if it doesn’t become foamy in 5-10 minutes, it may be time to buy a new packet. Are these pretzels suitable for vegetarians? Yes! These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels are entirely vegetarian-friendly, making them a great snack option for gatherings. However, if you’re considering vegan options, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheeses and replace the butter with olive oil. Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe Magic Indulge in Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels, a cheesy treat packed with gooey mozzarella and aromatic rosemary. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 pretzelsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 240 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough4 cups All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for gluten-free pretzels.1.5 cups Warm Water Aim for a temperature of around 110°F (43°C).2.25 teaspoons Instant Yeast Can substitute with active dry yeast, adjusting the proofing time.1 tablespoon Sugar Reduce quantity for a less sweet result.1 tablespoon Salt Essential for flavor.For Boiling & Baking0.5 cups Baking Soda Used in the boiling process for chewy crust.4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute olive oil for dairy-free option.to taste Coarse Sea Salt For sprinkling on top.For Flavor2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary If fresh isn’t available, use 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.0.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese Alternatives include Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for vegan option.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Equipment Mixing bowlBaking sheetParchment paperSlotted SpatulaPot for boilingFloured surface Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, combine warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture while stirring to form a shaggy dough.Knead the shaggy dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for about 1 hour.After rising, punch down the dough, sprinkle with rosemary and grated Parmesan, knead until evenly distributed.Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Divide the dough into 12 pieces, shape each into a rope, and twist into a pretzel shape.Boil each pretzel in the baking soda solution for about 30 seconds on each side.Brush boiled pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.Let pretzels cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1pretzelCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg NotesThese pretzels can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!