Soft Mozzarella Stuffed Pretzels with Fresh Rosemary

Here’s a delicious recipe for Soft Mozzarella Stuffed Pretzels with Fresh Rosemary, along with the SmartPoints value.

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 10 cups water
• ⅔ cup baking soda

For Topping:

• Coarse sea salt
• Additional chopped rosemary (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
   • Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the mozzarella cubes and chopped rosemary in a bowl. Set aside.
3. Shape the Pretzels:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20 inches).
   • Place a tablespoon of the mozzarella filling in the center of each rope, then fold the dough over and pinch to seal. Shape into a pretzel.
4. Baking Soda Bath:
   • In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
   • Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake:
   • Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse sea salt and additional rosemary if desired.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

SmartPoints Value

• Total SmartPoints: Approximately 6 points per pretzel (this may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements).

Feel free to adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences! Enjoy your baking!