Ham, Swiss, And Jalapeno Stuffed Pretzels Recipe

Quick & Spicy Ham, Swiss, and Jalapeno Stuffed Pretzels Recipe

Soft, pillowy pretzels with a zesty ham, swiss, and jalapeño stuffed center will make you crave comfort food like never before.

These twisted delights pack a punch of flavor that surprises with every bite.

Warm, golden-brown dough wraps around melty cheese and spicy peppers, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Crispy edges give way to a gooey, savory interior that promises pure satisfaction.

Simple ingredients come together in a magical dance of textures and tastes.

Home cooks can easily master this irresistible snack that feels like a gourmet treat.

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress everyone at your next gathering.

Why Ham, Swiss, and Jalapeño Stuffed Pretzels Work

  • Whip up these pretzels in under 90 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous snack cravings.
  • Combine zesty jalapeños, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese for a mouthwatering twist on traditional pretzels that will excite taste buds.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeño quantity, making this recipe adaptable for both spice lovers and mild-palate family members who want a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.

What You Need to Make Stuffed Pretzels

Pretzel Dough Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture for classic pretzel dough.
  • Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth in the dough.
  • Warm Water: Activates yeast and helps develop gluten.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and promotes rising.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Creates air pockets and helps dough rise.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Ham: Adds savory protein and rich flavor to the stuffed pretzels.
  • Swiss Cheese: Provides creamy, melty texture and sharp taste.
  • Jalapeno Peppers: Brings spicy kick and fresh heat to the filling.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Baking Soda: Creates signature pretzel brown crust when boiled.
  • Egg Wash: Gives pretzels golden, shiny exterior.
  • Coarse Salt: Adds classic pretzel topping and extra flavor boost.

Baking Instructions for Jalapeño Stuffed Pretzels

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

Pour warm water into a spacious mixing bowl. Sprinkle sugar and yeast into the water. Gently stir the mixture and allow it to rest for 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

Gradually add flour and salt to the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a rough, shaggy dough begins to form. The texture should be slightly sticky and uneven.

Step 3: Develop Dough Consistency

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough using the heel of your hand, pushing and folding repeatedly. Continue kneading for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and stretchy. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook and mix for 4-5 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Allow Dough to Rise

Lightly grease a clean bowl with cooking spray or oil. Place the kneaded dough inside and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Position the bowl in a warm, draft-free area of your kitchen. Let the dough rise for approximately 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Prepare Filling Ingredients

Gather your filling components:
  • Diced ham
  • Shredded Swiss cheese
  • Finely chopped jalapeños

Step 6: Shape and Stuff Pretzels

Punch down the risen dough and divide into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangular shape. Sprinkle ham, Swiss cheese, and jalapeños down the center of each rectangle.

Step 7: Fold and Seal Pretzels

Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal completely. Twist the stuffed dough into classic pretzel shapes.

Step 8: Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Add baking soda to the water. Briefly dip each pretzel into the boiling water, then place on a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Bake pretzels for 12-15 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Key Tips for Stuffing Pretzels Perfectly

  • Boost Yeast Activation: Ensure water temperature is between 105-110°F for perfect yeast performance, helping the dough rise properly.
  • Customize Spice Levels: Adjust jalapeño quantity to control heat- remove seeds for milder flavor or add more for extra kick.
  • Perfect Pretzel Shaping: Roll dough into even rectangles and distribute ham, Swiss, and jalapeños uniformly for consistent stuffing in each pretzel.
  • Enhance Baking Technique: Brush pretzels with egg wash before baking to achieve golden-brown, glossy exterior that looks professionally made.
  • Storage Smart Tip: Wrap cooled pretzels individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days, reheating in oven for crispy texture.

How to Store and Heat Up Stuffed Pretzels

  • Store leftover stuffed pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and preventing moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual pretzels tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for storage up to 1 month. Prevent freezer burn by removing excess air.
  • Warm pretzels at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, restoring their crispy exterior and melty cheese center. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
  • Remove frozen pretzels from freezer, let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before reheating to ensure even warming.

Dips and Sides for Stuffed Pretzels

  • Bold, hoppy IPAs cut through the rich, cheesy pretzel, perfectly balancing the jalapeño's spicy kick with crisp, refreshing notes.
  • Whip up a creamy ranch or spicy mustard sauce that complements the ham and cheese filling, enhancing the pretzel's savory profile.
  • Prepare a light arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette to contrast the heavy, indulgent pretzels and cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Choose a cold, sparkling hard cider that provides a sweet and tart counterpoint to the salty, spicy stuffed pretzels.

Custom Stuffed Pretzel Variations to Explore

  • Gluten-Free Pretzel Variation: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better texture and binding.
  • Vegetarian Stuffed Option: Swap ham with roasted bell peppers, spinach, and plant-based cheese for a meat-free alternative.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Pretzel: Use riced cauliflower and almond flour as a base, reducing overall carbohydrate content while maintaining a similar pretzel-like experience.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace Swiss cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives and use non-dairy milk when preparing the dough.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ham, Swiss, And Jalapeno Stuffed Pretzels Recipe

Ham, Swiss, And Jalapeno Stuffed Pretzels Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Savory ham, swiss, and jalapeño stuffed pretzels bring spicy comfort to classic snack time. Crispy golden exteriors give way to melted cheese and zesty heat, promising a delicious twist you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 ¾ cups (470 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (100 g) diced ham
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded Swiss cheese
  • 23 tablespoons pickled jalapenos, finely chopped

Dough Enhancers and Seasonings:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) warm water (110F/45C)

Preparation and Topping Ingredients:

  • 8 cups (2 liters) water
  • ½ cup (120 g) baking soda
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm water with sugar, allowing the mixture to bloom and become frothy for approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Incorporate flour and salt into the activated yeast mixture, stirring until a rough, uneven dough begins to form.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly dusted work surface, then knead vigorously for 5-7 minutes, developing a smooth and springy texture. Alternatively, utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, kneading for 4-5 minutes until the dough becomes cohesive.
  4. Lightly grease a clean bowl and gently place the kneaded dough inside, covering with a soft cloth or plastic wrap to create a warm, draft-free environment.
  5. Allow the dough to rest and expand in a temperate location for approximately 60 minutes, or until its volume doubles and becomes noticeably puffy.
  6. Punch down the risen dough to release trapped air, preparing it for the next stage of preparation.
  7. Divide the dough into equal portions, creating a foundation for stuffing with diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and finely chopped jalapeños.
  8. Roll each portion into a rectangular shape, carefully distributing the savory filling along the center of the dough.
  9. Carefully roll and seal the edges, forming a compact pretzel-like shape that encapsulates the flavorful ingredients.
  10. Prepare a baking soda bath to enhance the pretzel’s signature golden-brown exterior and distinctive flavor profile.

Notes

  • Ensure water temperature is exactly 110-115°F for perfect yeast activation, preventing killed or inactive yeast.
  • Use freshly grated Swiss cheese for maximum melting and flavor intensity compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • Dice jalapeños finely and remove seeds to control spice level while maintaining pepper’s vibrant flavor profile.
  • Brush pretzels with egg wash before baking to achieve a gorgeous golden-brown, glossy exterior that looks professionally made.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star