Rosemary Mozzarella Soft Pretzels

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl, mix the warm water, brown sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

   Start 5-minute timer
2. 2

   Add the flour, salt, chopped rosemary, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

3. 3

   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 4-5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

   Start 4-minute timer
4. 4

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.

   Start 1-hour timer
5. 5

   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230 °C) (230°C (450 °F)). Prepare a large pot of water and bring it to a boil.

6. 6

   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long.

7. 7

   Flatten each rope slightly, place mozzarella cheese along the center, and pinch the dough to seal the cheese inside. Twist the stuffed ropes into a traditional pretzel shape.

8. 8

   Carefully add baking soda to the boiling water. Dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds.

   Start 30-second timer
9. 9

   Remove the pretzels from the water using a slotted spoon and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

10. 10

    Brush the tops of the pretzels with egg yolk and sprinkle with coarse salt.

11. 11

    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the pretzels are deep golden brown.

    Start 12-minute timer
12. 12

    Immediately after baking, brush the hot pretzels with garlic butter. Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.