The moment I pulled a tray of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels from the oven, the rich aroma of sweet cinnamon filled my kitchen, transporting me back to childhood evenings spent at the fair. These fluffy, golden treats are not just a nostalgia-packed snack; they’re a delightful way to turn an ordinary day into something special. With a beginner-friendly recipe, you can whip up these comforting treats in no time—perfect for cozy get-togethers or a comforting solo treat. Just imagine sinking your teeth into that warm, chewy dough coated in a sugary cinnamon topping. Are you ready to create some magical moments in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade pretzels!
Why Are These Pretzels So Irresistible?
Warm, Chewy Bliss: Imagine biting into a soft pretzel that’s both fluffy and chewy, perfectly complemented by a sweet cinnamon sugar coating.
Beginner-Friendly: Easy enough for anyone to master, this recipe makes homemade pretzels achievable and fun!
Nostalgic Flavor: The aroma and taste will evoke memories of fairs and cozy nights, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert—pair with warm caramel dip or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a flavor twist to elevate your snack time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights at home, these pretzels will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. With their comforting warmth, they are bound to be a family favorite!
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels and make your evenings even more special!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients
For the Dough
• Active Dry Yeast – Essential for dough rise, creating the signature soft, chewy texture; substitute with instant yeast in the same amount without pre-activating.
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast for that delightful rise.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and chewiness, forming the heart of your pretzels.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and adds depth to your soft pretzels.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and aids in browning for that golden finish.
For the Boiling Solution
• Baking Soda – Used in boiling water, it creates that chewy crust and deep color for your soft pretzels.
For the Topping
• Large Egg (beaten) – Provides a glossy finish when brushed on pretzels before baking for that appealing look.
• Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Creates a sweet, crunchy crust that complements the warm dough beautifully.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, enhancing the overall sweetness of the Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until a foamy layer forms on top; this indicates the yeast is activated. This step is crucial for ensuring your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels rise delightfully.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour, followed by 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring everything is combined well. The dough should start pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the shaggy dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, achieving a soft, pillowy texture. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal portions, rolling each into an 18-inch rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel by creating a U-shape, twisting the ends together, and securing them. This step gives your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels their iconic look.
Step 5: Prepare the Boiling Solution
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add 2/3 cup of baking soda carefully; it will bubble up. This alkaline solution helps form the pretzels’ distinctive chewy crust. Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet to transfer the pretzels once boiled.
Step 6: Boil the Pretzels
Lower each pretzel into the boiling solution, ensuring each one is boiled for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to carefully flip them halfway through for even cooking. After boiling, remove each pretzel and place it on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. This boiling step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush each boiled pretzel with a beaten large egg to give them a beautiful, glossy finish. Immediately sprinkle a mixture of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon over the tops of the pretzels. The coating will create a sweet crunch that complements the warm, chewy pretzel base.
Step 8: Bake the Pretzels
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pretzels for 12–15 minutes, or until they turn a rich golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake. Once done, the aroma of your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will fill your kitchen, making them irresistible.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This will help maintain their chewy texture while allowing you to enjoy them warm. Serve your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels plain or with a warm dip of your choice for an extra treat.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Indulging in warm, sugary pretzels opens up a world of pairing possibilities, each enhancing your homemade treat’s delightful flavors.
- Creamy Caramel Dip: This rich, buttery dip balances the sweet pretzels perfectly, making each bite an irresistible delight.
- Chocolate Ganache: The smooth, glossy chocolate adds a luxurious contrast that elevates your dessert experience to new heights.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful temperature contrast, creating a dreamy combination.
- Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread this sweet, spiced butter on warm pretzels for an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh Berries: Lightly tart, juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing pop that brightens each bite.
- Hot Apple Cider: The cozy warmth and spiced notes of hot apple cider pair beautifully with the cinnamon sweetness of your pretzels.
- Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic tea’s warmth and spices complement the cinnamon flavor, creating a comforting beverage pairing.
- Milk or Almond Milk: A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk enhances the nostalgic feel of your sweet treats, perfect for dipping.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup over your pretzels for a lovely hint of caramel flavor to round out the sweetness.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
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Perfect Temperature: Always ensure the water is warm but not hot—too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your pretzels from rising.
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Don’t Skip Boiling: This step is essential for achieving that classic chewy crust; skipping it will result in softer pretzels that lack the desired texture.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough thoroughly for 5-7 minutes to develop gluten, which gives your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels their lovely chewiness.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Check your yeast for freshness; expired yeast can lead to flat pretzels that won’t rise adequately.
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Egg Wash Matters: Brushing with the beaten egg not only adds shine but also helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the pretzels during baking.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply let it rise, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, take it out, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then shape into pretzels and proceed with boiling and baking. Alternatively, you can shape the pretzels and freeze unboiled for up to 3 months; just boil them straight from the freezer when you’re ready. To maintain their delicious texture, always brush with egg wash just before baking. You’ll have warm, homemade pretzels with minimal effort!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations
Why not let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful pretzels? Each suggestion can elevate your treat in unexpected ways!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the pretzels for a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon. Imagine the gooey delight as you take a bite!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version that keeps all the flavors intact.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs while maintaining the fluffy texture you crave. These soft pretzels can be for everyone!
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Extra Spice: Add cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an aromatic twist that infuses your pretzels with warm, spicy goodness. It’s a cozy flavor that feels like a warm hug.
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Savory Twist: Replace cinnamon sugar with garlic powder and parmesan cheese for a savory snack that satisfies. Serve with marinara sauce for an indulgent appetizer!
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Brown Sugar: Swap out granulated sugar for brown sugar in the dough and topping for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that takes these pretzels to new flavor heights.
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Fruity Flair: Add dried fruit pieces like cranberries or chopped apples to the dough for a delightful surprise in every bite. Just imagine the juicy bursts of flavor!
Feel like venturing beyond Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels? Pair them with a luxurious dip like warm caramel or explore my recipes for Warm Cinnamon Spiced Apple Bread or Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls for more comforting treats that will warm your heart and your kitchen!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent staleness.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for about 4-5 days. While they may lose some crispness, reheating can help restore their delightful texture.
Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for 2-3 months. For the best results, reheat straight from frozen in the oven for that freshly-baked taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels later, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right active dry yeast?
When selecting yeast, make sure to check the expiration date on the package. Fresh yeast is vital for achieving a great rise in your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. If you’re using instant yeast instead, you can substitute it in equal amounts without the need to activate it in warm water first, making it a convenient option!
What’s the best way to store leftover pretzels?
For storing, keep your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for about 4–5 days, but be aware that they may lose some crispness. Just pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to restore their delightful texture!
Can I freeze these pretzels?
Absolutely! Wrap your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for 2-3 months. To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat them from frozen for about 10-15 minutes, so they come out warm and delicious!
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check that your yeast is fresh and the warm water isn’t too hot or cold. It should be around 110°F (43°C) when activating the yeast. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot, like near a preheating oven, to encourage rising. Covering the bowl with a damp cloth will help retain warmth too!
Are these pretzels safe for people with gluten allergies?
Unfortunately, traditional Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels contain gluten due to the all-purpose flour. However, if you need a gluten-free option, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to follow the blending ratios on the package and adjust liquids as needed for the best results!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Pour in yeast mixture and melted butter, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead dough on floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Punch down dough and divide into 8 portions. Roll each into an 18-inch rope and shape into pretzels.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water and baking soda in a pot. Prepare parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, flipping halfway. Place on the baking sheet after boiling.
- Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar-cinnamon mixture.
- Bake pretzels for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
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