The Coziest Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels Recipe for Snack Lovers

Soft, golden pretzels with gooey cheese-stuffed interiors promise a delightful snack that melts hearts and satisfies cravings.

Warm, twisted dough embraces pockets of rich, creamy cheese in this irresistible treat.

The perfect blend of bakery-style comfort and homemade goodness awaits you.

Each bite delivers a burst of cheesy flavor that dances across your palate.

Classic pretzel techniques meet indulgent cheese in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Crispy exterior, molten cheese center – these pretzels elevate your snacking game to new heights.

Prepare to wow everyone with this mouthwatering culinary creation that turns an ordinary moment into something spectacular.

FAQs

• Why do I need to dissolve sugar and yeast separately before mixing with flour?

Dissolving sugar and yeast in warm water activates the yeast, helping it bloom and create a better rise for your pretzel dough. This process ensures your pretzels will be soft and fluffy.

• Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or parmesan. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and complements the pretzel’s flavor.

• What happens if I skip the boiling step with baking soda?

Boiling pretzels in baking soda water gives them their classic dark, chewy exterior and distinctive pretzel flavor. Skipping this step will result in a less authentic texture and taste.

Why Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels Always Steal the Show

• Indulge in a warm, gooey pretzel packed with melted cheese that hugs your taste buds with pure deliciousness.
• Master a recipe that looks impressive but is actually fun and manageable for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Wow friends and family with homemade pretzels that are guaranteed to disappear within minutes of serving.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations or add extra seasonings to make this recipe uniquely yours.

What Goes Inside Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

• All-Purpose Flour: The main structure and base for the pretzel dough.
• Warm Water: Helps activate the yeast and bring the dough together.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides food for the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Active Dry Yeast: Crucial for making the dough rise and creating a light texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pretzel dough.

• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Create a rich, melty cheese center with a combination of sharp and mild flavors.

• Baking Soda, Water: Creates the classic pretzel boil that gives the exterior its signature chewy and glossy texture.
• Egg: Provides a golden brown sheen and helps the salt stick to the surface.
• Coarse Salt: Adds a crunchy, salty exterior that complements the cheese-filled interior.

Pretzel Tools and Must-Haves for Cheesy Success

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining dough ingredients and mixing cheese filling.
• Small bowl: Ideal for dissolving sugar and yeast, and preparing cheese mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Slotted spoon: Helps remove pretzels from boiling water without splashing.
• Baking sheet: Lined with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.
• Surface area for kneading: Clean countertop or cutting board dusted with flour.
• Whisk or fork: For beating egg wash and mixing yeast mixture.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring dough and mixing ingredients.

How to Twist and Bake Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

Step 1: Activate Yeast

In a cozy bowl, sprinkle yeast into warm water.

Let the mixture hang out until it becomes frothy and bubbly, which takes about 5 minutes.

The yeast will start to wake up and get super excited to help your dough rise.

Step 2: Create Dough Base

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine flour and salt.

Pour in the yeasty liquid and stir until everything comes together into a shaggy dough.

Don’t worry about perfection – messy is good at this stage!

Step 3: Knead and Develop Texture

Transfer the dough to a floured surface.

Start pushing, folding, and rolling the dough.

Knead with your hands for around 5 minutes until the texture becomes smooth and springy.

This is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Let Dough Rise

Nestle the dough into an oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and find a warm spot in your kitchen.

Allow the dough to expand and rise for about an hour.

It’ll double in size and become wonderfully puffy.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Filling

• Cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Mix the cheeses together, creating a deliciously melty combination that will ooze inside your pretzels.

Step 6: Shape Pretzel Pockets

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.

Roll each piece into a rope, then flatten slightly.

Place a generous spoonful of cheese mixture in the center.

Carefully pinch and seal the dough around the cheese, forming a secure pocket.

Step 7: Boil and Prep

Bring water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot.

Gently lower each pretzel into the water for about 30 seconds.

This quick bath gives pretzels their signature chewy exterior.

Step 8: Add Final Touches

Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

These steps will create a gorgeous golden-brown finish with a delightful crunch.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pretzels into a preheated oven.

Bake until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese starts to melt and bubble, which takes about 12-15 minutes.

Secrets for Extra Gooey Cheese Pretzel Bites

• Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and foamy when dissolved to guarantee a perfect rise and fluffy pretzel texture.
• Add flour gradually while kneading to prevent sticky dough, achieving a smooth and elastic consistency for easier shaping.
• Pinch pretzel dough edges tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during boiling and baking, creating a clean and professional appearance.
• Brush egg wash generously for a shiny, deep golden-brown exterior that adds visual appeal and enhances flavor.
• Enjoy pretzels right after baking when cheese is melted and pretzel is crispy for the most delicious experience.

Cheesy Pretzel Combos You’ll Want to Try Next

• Gluten-Free Pretzels: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, using xanthan gum for better texture and binding.
• Vegan Cheese Pretzels: Swap dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives like cashew-based or almond-based cheese.
• Whole Wheat Hearty Pretzels: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and nutty flavor.
• Low-Carb Cheese Pretzels: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat flour, and reduce the carbohydrate content for a keto-friendly option.

Perfect Times to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

• Picnic Perfect Platter: Pack these pretzels in a portable container for an outdoor lunch adventure with friends or family. Wrap each pretzel individually in parchment paper to keep them fresh and easy to grab.
• Dipping Delight: Serve alongside classic mustard, marinara sauce, or a creamy ranch dressing. The melted cheese inside pairs beautifully with tangy and herbal dipping sauces that enhance the pretzel's rich flavor.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Slice pretzels into smaller bite-sized pieces for an irresistible appetizer during sports watching parties. Arrange on a large platter with toothpicks for simple, grab-and-go snacking that keeps everyone satisfied.

Keeping Cheese Pretzels Tasty After Baking

• Store leftover cheese-stuffed pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual pretzels tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Unwrap frozen or refrigerated pretzels and place on a baking sheet. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Heat refrigerated pretzels for 20-30 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent cheese from becoming rubbery. Best used when you need a quick warm snack.

Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Gooey cheese-stuffed pretzels offer a delightful twist on classic German street fare. Golden brown exteriors hide melted cheese centers that make snack time irresistible. Hungry people will crave these comforting treats.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

Liquid and Leavening Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon salt

Bath and Topping Ingredients:

• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

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Instructions

1. Activate the yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water (110F/45C), then sprinkle yeast on top and let it rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl, then pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead thoroughly for 5 minutes, developing a smooth and elastic texture.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.
5. Heat the oven to 425F (220C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Create the cheese filling by blending shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a small bowl.
7. Divide the risen dough into 8 equal portions, rolling each into a rope. Flatten slightly, add a tablespoon of cheese filling in the center, then carefully seal the dough around the cheese and shape into a traditional pretzel form.
8. Prepare a boiling solution of water and baking soda. Submerge each pretzel in the boiling liquid for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Enhance the pretzels by brushing with beaten egg and generously sprinkling coarse salt across the surface.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, achieving a golden-brown color and ensuring the cheese is completely melted.

Notes

• Master the yeast activation by ensuring water temperature is precisely between 110-115°F to guarantee perfect rising and avoid killing the yeast.
• Seal cheese inside pretzels completely to prevent leakage during boiling and baking, creating a clean, professional-looking final product.
• Experiment with alternative cheese blends like sharp provolone, smoked gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles that elevate the classic recipe.
• Consider gluten-free adaptation by substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend and adding xanthan gum for improved texture and elasticity.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg