Save A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
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 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 festive pretzel wreath is sure to be a hit at your next holiday party pulling apart bites for everyone to enjoy.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes the dough chewy in this wreath?
Boiling the dough balls briefly in a baking soda solution before baking creates the classic chewy pretzel texture and deep golden crust.
- → Can I use other cheeses for the filling?
Yes, swapping mozzarella for Gruyère or cheddar adds unique flavors to the creamy cheese filling.
- → How long should I let the dough rise?
Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size to develop a soft texture.
- → What is the best way to assemble the wreath?
Seal each cheese-stuffed dough ball tightly, then arrange them touching in a ring shape to ensure the wreath pulls apart easily once baked.
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dough balls and refrigerate them briefly before boiling and baking to save time on serving day.