Save A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family; the combination of soft pretzels and cheesy filling is irresistible.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 ¼ cups (400 g) all-purpose flour 1 packet (7 g) instant yeast 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Cheese Filling: 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella ½ cup (60 g) cream cheese softened ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan 1 tablespoon chopped chives ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pretzel Bath & Topping: ½ cup (120 g) baking soda 8 cups (2 L) water 1 egg beaten (for egg wash) Coarse pretzel salt for sprinkling 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for brushing)
- Garnish: ¼ cup (4 g) fresh parsley chopped ½ cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine flour yeast sugar and salt Add warm milk and melted butter Mix and knead until a soft smooth dough forms (about 5 7 minutes) Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes or until doubled in size
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile mix mozzarella cream cheese Parmesan chives garlic powder and black pepper in a bowl until well combined Set aside
- Step 3:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Step 4:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 24 equal pieces Flatten each piece place ~1 teaspoon cheese mixture in the center and pinch dough around filling to seal into a ball
- Step 5:
- Arrange balls in a ring shape on the prepared baking sheet touching each other to form a wreath
- Step 6:
- In a large pot bring water and baking soda to a boil Carefully lower each ball into the boiling solution for 15 20 seconds then transfer back to the baking sheet maintaining the wreath shape
- Step 7:
- Brush balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt
- Step 8:
- Bake for 18 22 minutes or until deep golden brown
- Step 9:
- Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter if desired Garnish with parsley and nestle cherry tomatoes between the pretzel balls for a festive look
- Step 10:
- Serve warm pulling apart to enjoy
Save Gathering around this pretzel wreath always brings laughter and warm memories to our holiday table.
Notes
For extra flavor add a little Dijon mustard to the cheese filling Serve with honey mustard or spicy cheese dip Swap mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar for a different twist
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Saucepan Slotted spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) milk eggs May contain Traces of nuts or soy (check cheese and butter labels) Always double-check ingredient labels for allergen safety
Save This pretzel joy wreath is sure to become a holiday tradition with its delicious flavor and festive presentation.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the pretzel's signature crust?
Boiling the dough balls in a baking soda solution before baking creates the classic pretzel crust by reacting with the surface and promoting browning.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses in the filling?
Yes, swapping mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar offers different flavor profiles while maintaining creamy texture.
- → What is the best way to shape the wreath?
Arrange sealed cheese-filled dough balls closely on a baking sheet to form a ring, ensuring they touch to create the pull-apart effect.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Wrap the wreath tightly and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the oven to retain the golden crust and melted cheese.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley adds a vibrant green touch and cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and color.