These Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels are soft, chewy, and filled with gooey melted cheese, making them the ultimate comfort snack. With a golden-brown crust and a warm, cheesy center, these pretzels are perfect for game day, a cozy movie night, or any occasion where you crave a savory treat. They’re surprisingly easy to make and are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra delicious experience.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

• 8 oz cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

For the Baking Soda Bath

• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda

For Topping

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
• Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Soda Bath

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Pretzels

• Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a rope about 12-15 inches long. Flatten the rope slightly with your fingers.
• Place a few cubes of cheddar cheese along the center of the flattened dough, then fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges to seal, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
• Shape each filled rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, then twisting the ends and folding them over to create the classic pretzel shape.

Step 4: Boil the Pretzels

• Carefully place each pretzel into the simmering baking soda bath for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzel and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake

• Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to create a shiny crust. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

• Allow the pretzels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as mustard or cheese dip.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Yeast Activation: Make sure the water is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
• Sealing the Dough: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough tightly around the cheese to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
• Baking Soda Bath: The baking soda bath is essential for achieving the classic pretzel texture and color.

Recipe Variations

• Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda instead of cheddar for a different flavor.
• Garlic Butter Pretzels: Brush the pretzels with melted garlic butter after baking for an extra burst of flavor.
• Sweet Version: For a sweet twist, fill the pretzels with cream cheese and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar instead of coarse salt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Q: How do I store leftover pretzels? A: Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.

Q: Can I freeze these pretzels? A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap the pretzels individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

These Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels are the perfect combination of soft, chewy dough and gooey melted cheese. They’re easy to make, fun to shape, and sure to satisfy any craving for something warm and savory. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a cozy snack, these pretzels are always a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!