Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels (Print-Friendly Version)

Soft pretzels with melted mozzarella, golden crust, and a buttery finish ideal for sharing.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Dough

01 - 355 ml warm water (43°C to 46°C)
02 - 12 g granulated sugar
03 - 7 g active dry yeast (1 packet)
04 - 560 g all-purpose flour
05 - 60 g unsalted butter, melted
06 - 10 g salt

→ Boiling Solution

07 - 120 g baking soda
08 - 2.37 liters water

→ Filling and Topping

09 - 225 g mozzarella cheese, cut into 16 equal pieces
10 - Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
11 - 60 g unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
12 - Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

# Detailed Directions:

01 - Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add flour, 60 g melted butter, and salt to yeast mixture. Stir until dough begins to form.
03 - Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Preheat oven to 230°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
06 - Divide dough into 16 equal portions. Flatten each into a rectangle, place one piece of mozzarella in center, fold dough over cheese, and seal edges into a ball.
07 - Drop each filled dough ball into the boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and transfer to prepared baking sheet.
08 - Sprinkle pretzels with coarse sea salt. Bake in preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
09 - Brush warm pretzels with remaining melted butter. Serve immediately with marinara sauce if desired.

# Helpful Advice:

01 - Maintain water temperature between 43°C and 46°C to properly activate yeast.
02 - Kneading thoroughly ensures a soft, elastic texture.
03 - Use caution when handling pretzels in boiling solution to avoid burns.