Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Gooey Mozzarella Filling – Soft, Cheesy & Flavorful
Indulge in these Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels stuffed with gooey mozzarella! Soft, golden pretzels are packed with cheesy goodness and fragrant rosemary for the perfect savory snack or appetizer. Easy to make at home and irresistibly cheesy, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or cozy nights in. Serve warm for a melty, mouthwatering treat that everyone will love!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (or stand mixer)
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat
- Saucepan or large pot (for baking soda bath)
- Cooling rack
- Pastry brush
- Bench scraper or knife (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella (shredded or mini balls)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp baking soda (for boiling bath)
- 1 egg (for egg wash) or 2 tbsp melted butter
- Optional: garlic powder, chili flakes, coarse salt
Instructions
- Activate yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Make dough: Mix flour, salt, and rosemary with yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic (5–10 min by hand or 3–5 min in stand mixer).
- First rise: Cover dough; let rise in a warm spot until doubled (approx. 1 hour).
- Shape pretzels: Divide dough into equal portions, roll into ropes, and form pretzel shapes. Insert mozzarella inside each rope, sealing edges.
- Boil pretzels: Briefly dip in boiling water with baking soda (20–30 sec per side).
- Prepare for baking: Place on lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash or melted butter, and sprinkle Parmesan and extra rosemary.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Rotate sheet halfway for even color.
- Serve: Optionally brush with garlic butter and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use high-quality mozzarella for the best gooey texture.
- Seal pretzel edges tightly to prevent cheese leakage.
- Can freeze unbaked or baked pretzels for up to 1 month; reheat in oven or air fryer.
- Optional flavor variations: Gruyère, fontina, red pepper flakes, garlic butter, or honey drizzle.
- Serve immediately for maximum melty, aromatic experience.