Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active.

2. **Mix the Dough**: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, and then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.

3. **Let the Dough Rise**: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

4. **Preheat the Oven**: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

5. **Prepare the Baking Soda Bath**: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda. Stir to dissolve the baking soda in the water. This step is key to getting that signature pretzel crust — it creates the golden, chewy outer layer of the pretzel.

6. **Shape the Pretzels**: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 12 inches in length. Flatten the rope slightly and place one mozzarella cube in the center. Fold the dough around the cheese, sealing the edges tightly. Then, form the dough into a pretzel shape by crossing the ends over each other and twisting.

7. **Boil the Pretzels**: Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath, one at a time. Boil for about 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

8. **Apply Egg Wash and Salt**: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg wash, which will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake. Sprinkle with coarse salt for that classic pretzel flavor.

9. **Bake the Pretzels**: Place the pretzels in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted. Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to prevent over-browning.

10. **Serve**: Once the pretzels are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm for the best cheesy, melty experience.

### **Serving Suggestions**

– **Dipping Sauces**: These mozzarella stuffed pretzels are delicious on their own, but adding a dipping sauce can take them to the next level. Try pairing them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy mustard sauce for extra flavor.

– **Appetizer or Snack**: Serve these pretzels as a fun appetizer for a party or as a savory snack during game night. They’re easy to grab and enjoy, making them a perfect finger food.

– **Pair with a Drink**: For an extra indulgent treat, serve these pretzels with a cold beer, sparkling water, or a fun mocktail. The salty, cheesy pretzels pair wonderfully with refreshing beverages.

### **Why You Should Make Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels**

1. **Cheese Lovers’ Dream**: If you love cheese, these stuffed pretzels are heaven in every bite. The mozzarella center becomes perfectly gooey and melty, creating a delicious contrast with the soft, chewy dough.

2. **Fun to Make**: While these pretzels require a few steps, making them is a fun and rewarding process. The dough is easy to work with, and it’s exciting to pull apart the warm pretzel and reveal that oozy cheese inside.

3. **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these mozzarella stuffed pretzels are always a hit. They make a great snack for parties, an appetizer for dinner, or a fun meal on their own.

4. **A Homemade Treat**: There’s something truly special about homemade soft pretzels. They’re fresh, warm, and comforting in a way that store-bought versions just can’t match.

### **Tips for the Best Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels**

– **Don’t Overstuff the Pretzels**: Be sure to use just one cube of mozzarella per pretzel. Overstuffing can make the pretzels difficult to seal and may cause the cheese to ooze out while baking.

– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

– **Flavor Variations**: Get creative with your mozzarella-stuffed pretzels by adding extra ingredients like pepperoni, cooked sausage, or sautéed spinach inside for a unique twist.

– **Freezing for Later**: If you make a batch and want to enjoy them later, these pretzels freeze well. Once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked feel.

### **Conclusion**

Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a game-changer when it comes to snacks and appetizers. With their warm, chewy exterior and melty, cheesy interior, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party, family dinner, or just as a treat for yourself, these pretzels are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, customizable, and downright delicious, they’re the kind of comfort food you’ll want to enjoy again and again.