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If you have a craving for something irresistibly soft, warm, and filled with melty goodness, then you absolutely must try this Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe. There’s just something magical about the combination of a golden-brown, chewy pretzel exterior filled with sharp cheddar cheese that oozes out with each bite. These are perfect for snacking, sharing, or even impressing friends at your next gathering. Once you taste these delightful treats, they might just become your new favorite comfort food snack!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four soft pretzels with a golden brown shiny crust and sprinkled with coarse salt crystals, all placed on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Each pretzel has a twisted shape with a slightly darker brown color along the twists and light melted cheese oozing around the edges, creating a textured, crispy layer. Two small metal containers are on the tray, one filled with coarse salt near the bottom left corner and the other empty near the top right. The tray rests on a rustic wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an impressive and deeply satisfying pretzel experience. Each component plays a vital role whether it’s the fluffy texture of the dough, the rich buttery flavor, or the sharp punch of the cheddar cheese inside.

Warm Water: The foundation to activate the yeast and create soft, tender dough.
Sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps the dough develop that beautiful golden color when baked.
Instant Yeast: The key leavening agent that makes the dough rise and become airy.
Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and a subtle, creamy flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The structure-builder of the dough, ensuring a perfect chewy pretzel texture.
Kosher Salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering the dough.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (cut into small sticks): Delivers that irresistibly melty, gooey center every pretzel needs.
Water and Baking Soda: For boiling the pretzels before baking, creating their signature chewy crust and deep golden color.
Egg Yolk + Water (egg wash): Gives the pretzels a glossy, enticing finish.
Coarse Salt: Sprinkled on top to add that traditional salty bite and a bit of crunch.

How to Make Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm water with sugar in your mixing bowl, then sprinkle in the instant yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until you see a foamy layer on top—that’s proof your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to give your dough a wonderful rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add melted butter to the yeast mixture, then whisk together your flour and kosher salt before adding them to the bowl. Using a mixer with a dough hook attachment makes this step easy and efficient—first stir on low to incorporate everything, then kick it up to medium speed to knead. Give it 4 to 5 minutes until your dough feels smooth and elastic, pulling away from the bowl.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer your dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Find a warm spot and let the dough rest undisturbed until it doubles in size, usually about an hour. This rising phase is crucial for creating that soft, pillowy texture we love in pretzels.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper, drizzling them lightly with oil. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water mixed with baking soda to a rolling boil—this bath gives pretzels their signature chewy crust and shiny finish.

Step 5: Shape and Fill the Pretzels

Turn your dough onto a lightly oiled surface and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a long rope about 24 inches, then press it flat. Place a small stick of sharp cheddar cheese down the center and carefully pinch the dough around it to seal. Twist and shape each into a classic pretzel form using a well-practiced folding motion—it might take a couple of tries, but that hands-on shaping is part of the fun.

Step 6: Boil and Bake

Drop the pretzels a couple at a time into the boiling baking soda water for roughly 30 seconds, making sure to spoon the hot water over the top to help the crust develop. Remove gently with a spatula and place them immediately on your prepared baking sheets. Brush each one with the egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Finally, bake until deep golden brown, about 12 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack for at least 5 minutes before diving in.

How to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe

The image shows a close-up of three golden brown soft pretzels stacked on a white marbled textured surface with a black tray underneath. Each pretzel is thick with a glossy finish, sprinkled with coarse white salt grains on top. The pretzels have a well-defined twisted shape, with areas of darker browning adding texture. A small white cup with a dark liquid or melted butter is placed near the pretzels on the right side. The scene is warm and inviting, focused tightly on the pretzels’ texture and color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your cheese-stuffed soft pretzels even more, sprinkle on some fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika or garlic powder can add a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the sharp cheddar filling.

Side Dishes

These pretzels are fantastic on their own, but if you want to serve them alongside something, try tangy mustard (spicy or honey) or a creamy beer cheese dip. A crisp green salad or pickles also balance the richness perfectly, creating a well-rounded snack or light meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just serving them straight off the baking sheet. Slice pretzels into bite-sized twists for a sharing platter, or stack them alongside mini sandwiches for a festive spread. For parties, try stuffing them with different cheeses or mix in bits of crispy bacon or jalapeño for exciting flavor twists.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture while preventing them from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the fully baked pretzels by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making future snack time wonderfully simple.

Reheating

To enjoy your Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe leftovers as if freshly baked, thaw them at room temperature and warm in a 350-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the crisp crust and melts the cheese beautifully, restoring that fresh-from-the-oven appeal.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for stuffing?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a fantastic sharpness and melty texture, you can try mozzarella for stretchiness, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a mix of cheeses for complex flavor.

Is it necessary to boil the pretzels before baking?

Yes, the baking soda bath is essential. It creates the pretzels’ shiny, chewy crust and deep brown color that sets them apart from regular bread or rolls.

Can I make these pretzels vegan?

Definitely! Substitute butter with a vegan alternative and replace the sharp cheddar with your favorite vegan cheese sticks. Make sure to swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk wash to get a nice glossy finish.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel puffy and airy. A simple test is to gently press two fingers into the dough—if the indentation slowly springs back, it’s ready for shaping.

Can I add toppings other than coarse salt?

For sure! Try garlic salt, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even everything bagel seasoning to add unique flavors and textures to your pretzels—feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Cheese-Stuffed Soft Pretzels Recipe enough for anyone looking to create something truly special in the kitchen. The process feels fun and rewarding, and the end result is nothing short of delicious gold. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, these pretzels bring warmth, comfort, and a burst of cheesy joy to every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch your homemade pretzel game reach new heights!

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