Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels (Printable View)

Soft pretzels with warm, gooey cheese centers and a perfectly golden crust for ultimate snacking.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
02 - 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
03 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
04 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Filling and Egg Wash

06 - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or preferred variety)
07 - 1 egg, beaten

→ Baking Solution and Topping

08 - 10 cups water
09 - 1/2 cup baking soda
10 - Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and kosher salt.
03 - Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the yeast liquid, mixing until a soft dough forms.
04 - Transfer dough to a floured work surface. Knead by hand for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
05 - Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm location for about 30 minutes until doubled in volume.
06 - Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
07 - Bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Slowly add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
08 - Once dough has risen, punch it down and divide evenly. Roll each piece into a long rope and form a classic pretzel shape.
09 - Carefully submerge each shaped pretzel in the boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
10 - Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in each pretzel and generously fill with shredded cheese.
11 - Brush the surface of each filled pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
12 - Bake pretzels in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
13 - Remove pretzels from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Add the cheese just before baking to prevent it from leaking out during the boiling stage.