Mozzarella Stuffed Soft Pretzels (Print Version)

Soft pretzels stuffed with gooey mozzarella, a delicious cheesy treat for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
02 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
04 - 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 2 teaspoons salt

→ Boiling Solution

07 - 1/2 cup baking soda
08 - 10 cups water

→ Stuffing and Finishing

09 - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 16 pieces
10 - Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
11 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
12 - Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
02 - Add the flour, 1/4 cup melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
03 - On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
05 - Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
07 - Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Flatten each into a rectangle, place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center, fold over the dough, and seal the edges, forming a ball.
08 - Drop each stuffed dough ball into the boiling water mixture for 30 seconds.
09 - Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pretzels to the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
10 - Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining 1/4 cup melted butter. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.