Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels: A Delicious Homemade Treat

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the warm, chewy texture of a freshly baked soft pretzel, and when you add a gooey, cheese-stuffed center, it becomes truly irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating perfect cheese-stuffed soft pretzels from scratch. This in-depth guide covers everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, variations, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into the ultimate cheese-stuffed soft pretzel recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels

• Chewy and soft on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside
• Perfect for snacks, parties, and game days
• Customizable with different cheeses and seasonings
• Fun to make with family and friends
• Tastes better than store-bought pretzels!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
• ½ cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 10 cups water
• ⅔ cup baking soda

For Topping:

• 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tbsp water
• Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt
• Melted butter (for brushing, optional)

this PIN FOR LATER

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, salt, and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. Mix shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese in a bowl.
2. Form small cheese portions, about 1 tablespoon each, and set aside.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Pretzels

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
3. Roll each piece into a 12-inch rope, flattening it slightly.
4. Place cheese filling along the center and seal the dough tightly around it.
5. Shape into pretzels or pretzel bites and pinch the ends to secure.

Step 4: Boil the Pretzels in a Baking Soda Bath

1. Bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add baking soda.
2. Drop pretzels into the boiling water for 30 seconds each, then place on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
3. Brush with melted butter for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy warm with cheese dip, mustard, or marinara sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

1. Seal the dough well – To prevent cheese from leaking out, pinch the dough tightly.
2. Don’t skip the baking soda bath – It gives pretzels their classic texture and deep golden color.
3. Use high-quality cheese – Sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses enhances flavor.
4. Brush with butter after baking – Adds a bakery-style finish and extra richness.
5. Experiment with fillings – Try jalapeño cheddar, pepper jack, or even sweet fillings like Nutella.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Pretzels

• Add diced jalapeños to the cheese filling for a spicy kick.

2. Garlic Parmesan Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

• Brush pretzels with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking.

3. Sweet Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pretzels

• Swap out cheddar for sweetened cream cheese, and dust with cinnamon sugar.

What to Serve with Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels

• Cheese Sauce – A rich, melty dip made from Velveeta or nacho cheese.
• Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy complement to the salty pretzels.
• Marinara Sauce – A great option if you love a pizza-inspired twist.
• Ranch Dressing – For a creamy, herby dip.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make pretzel dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before shaping.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze cheese-stuffed pretzels?

Yes! Freeze baked pretzels for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes.

4. Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! You can use pizza dough or crescent roll dough for a quicker version.

5. What’s the best way to reheat pretzels?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or use an air fryer for crispy edges.

ConclusionCheese-stuffed soft pretzels are the ultimate homemade snack, combining chewy, golden-brown pretzel dough with a deliciously melty cheese filling. Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in, a fun party treat, or just to satisfy a craving, this step-by-step guide ensures perfect results every time. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cheesy, flavorful twist on classic soft pretzels!

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