Save Pin Mozzarella-Stuffed Pretzel Bites are pure comfort food with a melt-in-the-middle surprise My family devours these fresh from the oven every game day and I always end up making an extra batch just to keep everyone happy Each nugget brings that perfect mix of soft dough, golden brown crust, and stretchy cheese
I first discovered these when my oldest was craving both soft pretzels and mozzarella sticks We made a rainy afternoon of rolling dough together and it has been a go-to ever since
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Essential for structure Use fresh high-protein flour if possible for extra chew
- Active dry yeast: Ensures a fluffy rise Look for vacuum-packed yeast for maximum freshness
- Warm water: Activates the yeast Test temperature on your wrist to avoid getting it too hot
- Light brown sugar: Adds slight sweetness to balance the salty crust Choose unrefined if available
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the dough for flavor and softness Use high quality for best results
- Kosher salt: Brings out flavor both in dough and as topping Pick a coarse flaky salt for topping
- Baking soda: Crucial for classic pretzel crust Use a new box for a strong bath
- Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show Use low-moisture block mozzarella and cut into cubes for best melt
- Egg: Makes the pretzel bites glossy Use a fresh egg for the egg wash
Instructions
- Mix and Proof the Dough:
- Bloom yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5 minutes until creamy Stir in the rest of the sugar melted butter and salt Add flour gradually and work into a shaggy dough Knead for 7 to 10 minutes by hand or mixer until smooth and elastic Place in a greased bowl cover and let rise until doubled about 60 to 90 minutes
- Shape and Fill:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured work surface Cut into pieces about the size of golf balls Flatten each piece into a small disc Place a mozzarella cube in the center Fold edges over and pinch to seal well making sure no cheese peeks out Roll gently to form a smooth ball
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath:
- Bring about six cups of water to a simmer in a large pot Add baking soda carefully and stir until dissolved Reduce to low Place pretzel bites in batches into the bath for 20 to 30 seconds then lift out with a slotted spoon Drain well and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Egg Wash and Bake:
- Brush each bite generously with beaten egg and sprinkle with kosher salt Bake in a preheated 425 degree oven for 12 to 15 minutes until deep golden brown and bubbling Let cool slightly before serving so the cheese centers do not burn
Save Pin I always look forward to stealing a corner pretzel bite fresh from the pan My favorite memory is making these with my younger siblings and watching the cheese spill out with every first bite It never gets old seeing that stretch
Storage Tips
Store cooled pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For longer storage freeze in a single layer on a sheet tray then transfer to a zip bag Warm in the oven at 350 degrees to revive that freshly baked texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of mozzarella try small dice of cheddar or pepper jack For a gluten free version use your favorite gluten free bread flour blend and check yeast is gluten free Dairy free cheese sticks work as a surprise alternative too
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping Spicy mustard or garlic butter also make excellent accompaniments These bites are perfect alongside soup as a hearty side or on a snack board with cured meats and olives
Cultural-Historical Context
Pretzel making traditions go back centuries across Europe These pretzel bites combine the best of classic bread with American cheesy snack culture It is a mashup that keeps both old world and new world food lovers happy
Seasonal Adaptations
During fall swap in pumpkin puree for some of the butter for a touch of sweetness In summer lightly brush baked bites with pesto for a fresh herby finish For holidays try adding chopped pepperoni inside for a pizza party version
Success Stories
Friends have messaged me photos of their kids rolling dough and sneaking cheese cubes ahead of time A neighbor made a spicy jalapeño version for their football party and said they disappeared fast The best compliment I received was from a picky eater who claimed these were better than mall pretzels
Freezer Meal Conversion
Shape and fill as directed and freeze unbaked pretzel bites on a tray Once solid bag and label Bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes until golden and bubbly This works great for meal prep or last minute guests
Save Pin These pretzel bites bring so much fun and satisfaction into snack time Every bite is a warm cheesy memory worth sharing