Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Mozzarella Filling

Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Mozzarella Filling bring a gourmet twist to the classic soft pretzel. With a fragrant rosemary infusion, the richness of parmesan, and a gooey mozzarella center, these pretzels are a savory treat that will elevate any snack table. Perfect for parties or simply for indulging at home, this recipe combines flavors and textures that are irresistible. The salty, cheesy filling and the crispy, golden exterior make these pretzels a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Mozzarella Filling are the ultimate combination of savory, cheesy, and aromatic flavors. The soft, chewy dough is seasoned with rosemary and parmesan cheese, and the melted mozzarella center makes each bite pure bliss. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or party dish, these pretzels offer the comfort of classic pretzels with an upscale twist. They’re easy to make and will undoubtedly impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 12 sticks of mozzarella string cheese

• 10 cups water

• 2/3 cup baking soda

• 1 large egg, beaten

• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

2. Add flour, salt, chopped rosemary, and parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough begins to form.

3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot.

7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Wrap each piece around a mozzarella stick, sealing the ends to fully encase the cheese.

8. Drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spatula and place on the prepared baking sheet.

9. Brush the pretzels with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.

11. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Rise Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Substitutes: Instead of mozzarella, you can use cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

• Herb Variations: Add thyme or oregano to the dough for a unique twist on the rosemary flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pretzels gluten-free.

• Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the dough for a smoky version of these pretzels.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.

• Reheating: Reheat pretzels in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warm and the cheese inside is melty again.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze these pretzels?

Yes, after baking and cooling completely, you can freeze the pretzels. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warm and the cheese is gooey.

Can I use a different type of cheese inside?

Absolutely! You can use cheddar, gouda, or any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella is traditional, but other cheeses will give a different flavor profile.

How can I make the pretzel dough smoother?

Ensure that you knead the dough long enough—about 5-7 minutes—until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour as you knead.

Can I add more rosemary?

Yes! If you love the flavor of rosemary, feel free to increase the amount to suit your taste. However, a little goes a long way, so keep it balanced.

How do I make sure the pretzels turn out golden brown?

Brushing the pretzels with a beaten egg before baking helps them achieve a golden brown color and shiny finish. Be sure to bake at a high temperature (450°F) for the best results.

Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Mix on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

What should I do if my pretzels don’t rise properly?

Ensure that your yeast is active (check if it bubbles and froths when mixed with warm water and sugar). If your dough doesn’t rise, try moving it to a warmer spot or extending the rise time.

Can I make the pretzels smaller?

Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller pieces for mini pretzels. Adjust the baking time as needed—smaller pretzels will bake a bit faster.

Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda for boiling?

Baking soda is essential for creating the classic pretzel crust. Using baking powder may not give the same results, so stick with baking soda for the best texture.

Conclusion

Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Mozzarella Filling combine savory flavors with a gooey cheese center for an irresistible snack. Their rich taste and chewy texture make them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive parties. With just the right balance of salt, cheese, and herbs, these pretzels are bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you enjoy them alone or paired with dipping sauces, they are sure to impress everyone who tries them. Enjoy experimenting with fillings and toppings to make these pretzels uniquely yours!