Swiss and Jalapeño Stuffed Pretzels

Soft pretzels are taken to the next level with the perfect combination of gooey Swiss cheese and zesty jalapeños. These stuffed pretzels are a crowd-pleaser, ideal for game nights, parties, or as a fun snack for the family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic comfort of soft pretzels with bold, cheesy, and spicy flavors.
• Perfect for both casual snacking and entertaining guests.
• Fun and surprisingly easy to make at home.
• Highly customizable with variations to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Instant yeast
• Warm water
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Baking soda
• Swiss cheese
• Jalapeños
• Butter

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, warm water, brown sugar, and salt. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Let it rest for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Filling: Slice the Swiss cheese and jalapeños into thin strips. Set aside.
3. Shape the Pretzels: Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope, flatten it slightly, and place a piece of cheese and jalapeño in the center. Fold the dough over the filling and twist it into a pretzel shape.
4. Boil the Pretzels: In a pot, bring water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the pretzels with melted butter, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Rest Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by using mild jalapeños, adding more peppers, or substituting with sliced bell peppers.
• Toppings: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated Parmesan on top before baking.
• Stuffing Variations: Include cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm pretzels in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave them for 20–30 seconds. For best results, brush with a little butter before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

2. Can I freeze stuffed pretzels?

Absolutely! Freeze baked pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their texture.

3. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, a bread machine can handle the mixing and kneading for you. Use the dough setting.

4. Are there gluten-free alternatives?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust the liquid as needed for consistency.

5. What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

Substitute any meltable cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda.

6. Can I skip the boiling step?

Boiling is essential for the classic chewy pretzel texture. Skipping it will result in a bread-like consistency.

7. How do I handle fresh jalapeños safely?

Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.

8. Can I add other spices to the dough?

Yes, you can mix in garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

9. Can I make smaller pretzels for appetizers?

Certainly! Divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time to 8–10 minutes.

10. How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the dough fully encases the cheese and jalapeño, and pinch the seams tightly.

Conclusion

Swiss and jalapeño stuffed pretzels are the ultimate combination of soft, chewy pretzels and bold, flavorful fillings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Experiment with the variations, and enjoy these delicious homemade snacks!

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