Description
Indulgent ham, Swiss, and jalapeño stuffed pretzels blend savory and spicy flavors in a classic German-inspired snack. Crisp exterior and melty cheese create an irresistible treat you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3.75 cups (470 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100 g) diced ham
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded Swiss cheese
- 23 tbsps pickled jalapenos, finely chopped
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2.25 tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1.25 cups (300 ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 8 cups (2 liters) water
- 0.5 cup (120 g) baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten
- Coarse salt
Instructions
- Yeast Activation: Dissolve yeast in warm water with sugar, allowing the mixture to bloom and become frothy for 5 minutes.
- Dough Formation: Mix flour and salt into the activated yeast mixture, kneading either by hand on a floured surface or using a stand mixer with a dough hook until smooth and elastic, developing a cohesive consistency.
- First Rise: Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm location for 60 minutes until volume doubles, creating a puffy, aerated texture.
- Filling Preparation: Punch down the risen dough and divide into equal portions, then roll each piece into a rectangular shape, strategically positioning diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and finely chopped jalapeños along the center.
- Shaping and Sealing: Carefully roll the dough, meticulously sealing the edges to create a compact pretzel-like shape that completely envelops the savory filling.
- Baking Preparation: Prepare a baking soda bath to enhance the pretzel’s signature golden-brown exterior and develop its characteristic flavor profile, ensuring a crisp and appetizing finish.
Notes
- Activate Yeast Carefully: Ensure water temperature is between 105-110°F to properly activate yeast without killing it, creating a perfect rising environment.
- Knead for Texture: Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly, which creates a smooth, elastic dough with excellent stretching capabilities for stuffing.
- Control Filling Distribution: Spread ham, cheese, and jalapeños evenly to prevent uneven cooking and ensure consistent flavor in each bite.
- Manage Spice Level: Adjust jalapeño quantity based on heat preference, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding more for extra kick.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg