Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C).
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet).
04 - 4 cups all-purpose flour.
05 - 1 teaspoon salt.
06 - 1/4 cup baking soda.
07 - 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash).
08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
09 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
10 - 10 cups water (for pretzel bath).
11 - 2/3 cup baking soda (for pretzel bath).
12 - Coarse salt (for sprinkling).

Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, dissolve 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar in 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C). Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - In a large bowl, mix 4 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
03 - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
05 - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - In a small bowl, mix 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
07 - After the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, flatten it slightly, and place a tablespoon of cheese filling in the center. Pinch the dough closed around the cheese, sealing it tightly, and shape the dough into a pretzel.
08 - In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil. Gently drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
09 - Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown and the cheese is melted.