Description
These soft, golden-brown pretzels are stuffed with savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and spicy jalapeños. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a fun lunch! Serve them warm with your favorite mustard or cheese dip.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped
For Boiling & Topping:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add melted butter and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix the diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped jalapeños in a bowl. Set aside.
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzels: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 14 inches. Flatten the rope slightly, place a small amount of filling in the center, and pinch the dough together to seal it. Shape into a traditional pretzel or a simple twist.
- Boil the Pretzels: Bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 20–30 seconds, then remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush each pretzel with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
- Serve: Let the pretzels cool slightly and enjoy warm with mustard or cheese dip.
Notes
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference.
- These pretzels can be frozen after baking. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Try substituting Swiss cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.