Mediterranean Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels

Mediterranean Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels

These Mediterranean Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels are a unique twist on the classic soft pretzel. They’re soft and chewy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, and infused with Mediterranean flavors like garlic, oregano, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party food, they combine the comfort of fresh-baked bread with the bold, savory tastes of the Mediterranean.

 TIME

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Resting/Rising Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 35 minutes

Yields: 8 soft pretzels

INGREDIENTS

For the Pretzel Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)

2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Mediterranean Filling:

1 cup shredded or cubed mozzarella cheese

¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

¼ cup chopped kalamata olives (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon minced garlic or garlic powder

For the Baking Soda Bath:

6 cups water

¼ cup baking soda

For Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Coarse sea salt (optional)

Extra dried oregano or za’atar (optional)

Olive oil drizzle (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

Mix the mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, oregano, and garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.

3. Shape the Pretzels:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a rope (~18 inches long). Flatten the rope into a rectangle.

Add a spoonful of the filling down the center of the strip. Carefully fold and seal the dough over the filling, pinching tightly.

Shape into a pretzel (loop the ends and twist them over the center).

4. Baking Soda Bath:

In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a simmer. Carefully add baking soda.

Gently place each pretzel in the bath for 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake:

Brush each pretzel with beaten egg.

Sprinkle with coarse salt, oregano, or za’atar if desired.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. Seal the Dough Well

Ensure the dough is tightly sealed around the filling to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking. Pinch the edges firmly and roll slightly if needed.

2. Use Low-Moisture Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella can release too much moisture. Use low-moisture shredded or block mozzarella to avoid sogginess.

3. Keep Water at a Simmer, Not a Boil

The baking soda bath should be simmering gently. A rapid boil can make the pretzels fall apart or become too chewy.

4. Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath

This quick step gives the pretzels their characteristic golden crust and chewy texture. It’s essential for that classic soft pretzel bite.

5. Use Parchment Paper and Light Oil

To prevent sticking and ensure even browning, line your baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it or use a silicone mat.

6. Add a Sprinkle of Cornmeal

Sprinkling a little cornmeal on your parchment can add extra texture to the pretzel bottoms—optional but delicious.

7. Let Them Cool Slightly

Let pretzels rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese inside to set and makes them easier to eat without burning your mouth.

VARIATIONS TO TRY

Feta & Spinach Stuffed Pretzels

Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta.

Add finely chopped cooked spinach (squeezed dry).

Season with a pinch of nutmeg for a Greek-style twist.

Spicy Harissa Mozzarella Pretzels

Add a small amount of harissa paste to the mozzarella filling.

Top pretzels with sesame seeds and chili flakes before baking.

Caprese Pretzels

Use mozzarella, cherry tomato bits, and a few fresh basil strips.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Olive Tapenade Pretzels

Mix mozzarella with a spoonful of tapenade or finely chopped olives and capers.

Sprinkle with oregano and black pepper.

 Garlic Butter Herb Pretzels

Brush baked pretzels with a garlic herb butter (melted butter + garlic + parsley).

Add a sprinkle of parmesan before baking for even more flavor.

Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the pretzels and keep them shaped (without baking soda bath) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, do the soda bath and bake fresh.

Q2: Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. After baking, let them cool completely, wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Q3: What’s a good dipping sauce?

Here are a few great Mediterranean-inspired dips:

Tzatziki Sauce

Garlic Yogurt Dip

Spicy Harissa Mayo

Olive Tapenade Aioli

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Q4: Can I make them vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based mozzarella and replace the egg wash with olive oil or plant milk. The dough is already vegan.

Q5: What can I serve them with?

They pair perfectly with:

A side of hummus

A Greek salad

A bowl of lentil soup

Or simply as an appetizer or game-day snack!

Nutrition Info (Per Pretzel – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on cheese, flour type, and fillings used.

Conclusion

These Mediterranean Mozzarella-Stuffed Soft Pretzels bring together comfort food and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in one irresistible bite. The golden-brown crust, soft and chewy texture, and gooey mozzarella center packed with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs make them a memorable and satisfying dish.

Perfect for casual entertaining, snacking, or even as a creative side to a fresh salad or soup, they offer a flavorful spin on traditional pretzels. With options to customize, freeze, and pair with a variety of dips, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.