Save A festive, pull-apart wreath of golden pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering.
I love making this Pretzel Joy Wreath because it brings everyone together around the table to share and enjoy every pull-apart bite.
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 This recipe brings back fond memories of sharing warm pretzels with family during holiday celebrations.
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 a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines festive fun with irresistible flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is best for the filling?
A blend of mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a creamy, flavorful filling with a nice melt and subtle sharpness.
- → Why use a baking soda bath before baking?
The brief dip in baking soda water gives the pretzel its signature chewy crust and deep golden color after baking.
- → How do you shape the wreath?
Cheese-stuffed dough balls are arranged closely in a ring on the baking sheet, forming a connected wreath shape before baking.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be mixed and left to rise in advance; refrigerate it for a slower rise or prepare the dough the day before.
- → What garnishes enhance the final presentation?
Fresh parsley and halved cherry tomatoes nestled between the pretzel balls add color and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
- → Are there suggested dips to accompany the wreath?
Honey mustard or a spicy cheese dip complement the warm, cheesy pretzel bites nicely and add extra flavor.