Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels (Printer-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Pretzel Dough
01 -
1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
02 -
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 -
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
04 -
4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
05 -
1 teaspoon salt
06 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Filling
07 -
8 sticks of mozzarella cheese (about 4 inches each, or cut from a block)
→ Water Bath
08 -
10 cups water
09 -
½ cup (120 g) baking soda
→ Topping
10 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
11 -
¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
12 -
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
13 -
Coarse salt
# Let's Cook!:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 -
Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
03 -
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
04 -
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch rope. Flatten slightly and place a mozzarella stick in the center. Wrap the dough around the cheese, pinching the edges to seal. Shape into a pretzel or a simple loop.
05 -
Working in batches, drop each pretzel into the boiling water bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
06 -
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with rosemary, Parmesan cheese, and coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
07 -
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip.
# Cook's Notes:
01 -
For extra gooey cheese, use fresh mozzarella and cut it into sticks.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
03 -
For added flavor, drizzle with garlic butter before serving.