Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

There is something truly magical about warm, freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that just melts your heart the moment you take a bite. These soft pretzels are perfectly chewy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and generously coated with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture that adds just the right amount of comforting sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack to enjoy during a cozy movie night or a delightful treat to share with friends and family, these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels bring a little slice of bakery joy right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using staple ingredients that you probably already have, each component plays a special role in creating the perfect texture and irresistible flavor of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: This is the secret behind the soft and airy texture of the pretzels.
• 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create a tender dough.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness to each pretzel.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1/4 cup baking soda: Creates that iconic golden crust when boiling the pretzels.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Gives the pretzels a beautiful glossy finish.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For the sweet cinnamon coating.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm, fragrant spice to the sugar coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring 1 cup of warm water into a small bowl—warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top, then stir in the tablespoon of granulated sugar to give the yeast something to feast on. Let it sit quietly for about 5 to 10 minutes until it’s foamy and alive, signaling that the magic is beginning.

Step 2: Prepare and Knead the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, creating the dry foundation for your dough. Once your yeast mixture is bubbly and ready, pour it into the flour bowl and add the melted butter. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough starts to form. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough feels smooth, elastic, and ready to rise.

Step 3: First Rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and put it in a warm spot. This rise takes 1 to 1 1/2 hours, during which the dough doubles in size, becoming airy and light—exactly what you want for those soft pretzels.

Step 4: Shape Your Pretzels

Once your dough has had its growth spurt, give it a gentle punch to release trapped air. Divide it into 8 equal portions and roll each into a long 18-inch rope. Now comes the fun part: shape each rope into a classic pretzel form by folding and twisting it just like the ones you see in bakeries. This step not only shapes but also sets the stage for that perfect chewy bite.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring about 10 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Stir in 1/4 cup of baking soda—this special bath is what gives pretzels their signature golden, slightly crisp crust. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water one at a time and let them soak for 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Brush each pretzel generously with the beaten egg to add shine and help the cinnamon sugar stick. Mix together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this aromatic mixture lavishly over the pretzels while they are still damp from the egg wash. This step creates the candy-like crust that makes Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels so addictive.

Step 7: Baking

Bake the pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is something that will make your mouth water in anticipation. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool just a bit before digging in.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Garnishes

While the cinnamon sugar coating shines on its own, feel free to add a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an indulgent touch that will elevate the experience.

Side Dishes

These soft pretzels pair beautifully with warm vanilla dipping sauce or a simple cream cheese dip. For a more snack-like pairing, try alongside a cup of hot apple cider or rich hot chocolate to complement the cinnamon spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels into a fun party platter by arranging them with small bowls of creamy dips, fresh fruit slices, or nuts. You can also slice them open and stuff with sweet cream cheese or fruit preserves for a delightful handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard not to eat them all right away), keep the pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their softness without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these pretzels either before or after baking. For best results, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They will stay delicious for up to one month.

Reheating

To bring your pretzels back to life, warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and revives that freshly baked aroma and flavor you love.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast works well and can even save some time since it doesn’t require proofing. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients and adjust the liquid slightly if needed.

Why do we boil the pretzels in baking soda water?

The baking soda bath creates a chemical reaction with the dough’s surface, which gives the pretzels their characteristic brown crust and unique flavor, distinguishing them from regular bread rolls.

Can I make these pretzels vegan?

Yes, substitute the melted butter with a plant-based alternative and swap the egg wash for a mixture of non-dairy milk and maple syrup to achieve a similar glossy finish and sweetness.

How long should I knead the dough?

Kneading for about 5 to 7 minutes by hand is ideal to develop the gluten structure, ensuring your pretzels are chewy and elastic without being tough.

Can I adjust the cinnamon sugar coating to suit my taste?

Definitely! You can add more or less cinnamon according to your preference, or even mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried making Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels at home yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in. The process is incredibly rewarding, and the end result is a warm, sweet, and indulgent treat that feels homemade and special. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these pretzels will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

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