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 favorite at our holiday parties, loved for its fun presentation and delicious flavors.
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 Making this wreath has become a cherished tradition that brings my family together every holiday season.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 272 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 9 g per serving
Save This Pretzel Joy Wreath is perfect for any festive occasion and sure to impress your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the pretzel dough soft yet crusty?
The dough is boiled in a baking soda solution before baking, which creates a chewy crust while keeping the interior soft.
- → Can I substitute the cheese filling?
Yes, you can replace mozzarella and Parmesan with Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I shape the pretzel wreath ring?
After filling and sealing the dough balls, arrange them touching each other on a baking sheet in a circular wreath shape.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to the filling?
Adding a bit of Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture enhances the taste with a subtle tang.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley and halved cherry tomatoes add color and freshness, creating a festive presentation.