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Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels: An Easy and Delicious Ultimate Recipe

4.5 from 132 reviews

This Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic soft pretzel by incorporating a gooey, melted cheese center. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these homemade pretzels are perfect for snacks, parties, or anytime you crave a delicious, savory treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Baking and Filling:

  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Dissolve Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to evenly distribute the salt and prepare for dough formation.
  3. Combine: Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously until a rough dough forms.
  4. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for structure.
  5. Let it Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and set it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size, which ensures a light texture.
  6. Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  7. Prepare Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda to create an alkaline bath that helps develop the pretzels’ characteristic chewy crust.
  8. Shape Pretzels: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape into traditional pretzels.
  9. Boil Pretzels: Carefully place each pretzel into the boiling baking soda solution for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. This step creates the classic pretzel crust.
  10. Add Cheese: Make a small cut in each pretzel and stuff generously with shredded cheese of your choice, allowing it to melt inside when baked.
  11. Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to give a golden, shiny finish and sprinkle with coarse sea salt for extra flavor.
  12. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pretzels for 15 to 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
  13. Cool and Serve: Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set and avoid burns.

Notes

  • Use warm water between 110°F to 115°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Be cautious when adding baking soda to boiling water to avoid splashing or burns.
  • You can mix different cheeses for varied flavor and texture in the stuffing.
  • Allow pretzels to cool a few minutes before eating as cheese filling will be very hot.
  • Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Keywords: Cheese stuffed pretzels, soft pretzels recipe, homemade pretzels, cheesy snacks, baking snacks