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Appetizer Recipes: Rosemary Parmesan Pretzels with Mozzarella Filling

Appetizer Recipes like these rosemary parmesan pretzels bring everyone to the table fast. I first made them on a whim, thinking I'd just test a dough recipe. But something about the smell of rosemary, garlic, and parmesan melting into those golden crusts had the whole house wandering into the kitchen like bees to honey. I stuffed them with mozzarella because, let’s face it, life’s better with melted cheese in the middle of your carbs. The outside bakes to that deep, bronzy finish that crunches when you bite, but the inside? Soft, stretchy, and oh-so-satisfying when you hit that cheesy core. The flavor combo is straight out of your favorite pizzeria—but with that comforting, homemade touch. If you're anything like me, you’ll have to slap a few hands away before they cool. Perfect for parties, game nights, or honestly just as a cozy snack to treat yourself. These are the kinds of Tasty Meals you don’t forget—and yeah, I may have eaten two before I even plated the rest. They fall under Mozzarella recipes, sure, but they’re also your new go-to for recipes appetizer wins and an unexpected favorite for folks who usually scroll past Pie Filling Recipes. Even my Disney Food Blog-loving niece gave them two thumbs up.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keywords: appetizer recipes, Disney Food Blog, Mozzarella recipes, Pie Filling Recipes, recipes appetizer, Tasty Meals, Tasty Recipes
Servings: 8 pretzels
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse sea salt for topping
  • Olive oil for greasing bowl

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, stir the warm water, sugar, and yeast together. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the flour, salt, rosemary, and parmesan. Stir until it starts to form a dough, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  3. Drizzle olive oil in a clean bowl. Place the dough inside, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Punch the dough down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope, flatten slightly, and wrap around a mozzarella stick, pinching ends to seal.
  6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully add baking soda.
  7. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, remove with slotted spoon, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Brush each pretzel with egg wash and sprinkle coarse salt on top.
  9. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm for maximum cheese stretch.