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Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 52 reviews

These homemade Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels are soft, golden-brown, and bursting with melted cheese inside. Perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, the pretzels have a slightly crispy crust from a baking soda bath and a rich cheesy filling that makes every bite irresistible. This recipe guides you through making the perfect dough, shaping, boiling, and baking pretzels to cheese-filled perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Baking and Filling

  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Dissolve Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to ensure even distribution of the salt throughout the dough.
  3. Combine: Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough starts to form.
  4. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, which ensures good gluten development.
  5. Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for baking the pretzels.
  7. Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add the baking soda to the boiling water, which will help give the pretzels their distinctive crust.
  8. Shape Pretzels: After the dough has risen, punch it down to remove air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and then shape it into a classic pretzel form.
  9. Boil Pretzels: Using a slotted spoon, carefully place each shaped pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath for about 30 seconds. Remove and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  10. Add Cheese: Make a small slit or cut on each pretzel and stuff them generously with shredded cheese to create the gooey center.
  11. Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish and sprinkle coarse sea salt over them for flavor and texture.
  12. Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
  13. Cool and Serve: Remove the pretzels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the cheesy, warm pretzels safely and at their best texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • The baking soda bath is key for the pretzel’s traditional texture and color—do not skip this step.
  • You can use a blend of cheeses or your preferred types for varied flavors.
  • Let the pretzels cool slightly after baking to avoid burning your mouth on hot cheese.
  • For a twist, consider adding toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning instead of just sea salt.

Keywords: cheese-stuffed pretzels, homemade pretzels, soft pretzels, cheesy snack, pretzel recipe

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/cheese-stuffed-pretzels-recipe/