The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen is enough to turn any ordinary day into something special. I found myself in a rush the other afternoon, craving a comforting snack that didn’t rely on pre-packaged options. That’s when I stumbled upon my love for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. The best part? This easy recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together using simple ingredients like active dry yeast and flour. With just a little time and effort, you can whip up these warm, pillowy treats that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Plus, they make a delightful addition to any gathering or cozy movie night. Who could resist the combination of a slightly chewy exterior and a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust? So, are you ready to learn how to create this irresistible homemade snack that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple? Let’s dive in!
Why choose homemade cinnamon sugar pretzels?
Homemade goodness: There’s something truly special about making these pretzels from scratch—it’s simple, fun, and rewarding!
Versatile delight: Perfect for any occasion, serve them warm or with your favorite dip for extra indulgence.
Flavor explosion: The sweet cinnamon sugar topping perfectly complements the buttery, chewy pretzel, creating a taste sensation that can’t be beaten.
Crowd favorite: These pretzels are sure to impress family and friends, making you the star of any gathering!
Quick and easy: While they may look gourmet, this recipe is beginner-friendly—perfect for anyone eager to try their hand at homemade snacks. Add a side of Keto Cinnamon Roll for a complete treat!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients
Create the magic of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in your own kitchen!
For the Dough
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for dough rise and creating the soft, chewy texture of the pretzels; you can substitute with the same amount of instant yeast without prior activation.
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast properly; ensure it’s around 110°F (43°C) to prevent killing the yeast.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast for better rising.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and chewiness that make pretzels so delightful.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness and adding depth.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and tenderness, resulting in a golden finish when baked.
For the Boiling Solution
- Baking Soda – Creates an alkaline environment during boiling, giving the pretzels their characteristic chewy crust and deep brown color.
For the Topping
- Large Egg (beaten) – Used for the egg wash, ensuring a shiny, golden exterior after baking.
- Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Dusts the pretzels while warm, creating a sweet crunch that enhances the overall experience.
- Ground Cinnamon – Imparts a warm, spicy flavor perfectly complementing the sugary topping.
Now that you have these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to embark on making these delightful treats! Enjoy the process, and let the enticing aroma fill your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F) with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Gently stir the mixture and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure the salt is evenly distributed, enhancing the flavor of your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. This step creates a solid foundation for your dough.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl of dry ingredients along with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough begins to form. The combination of these ingredients will create the base of your pretzel dough, rich in flavor and texture.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. As you knead, feel the texture transform—this is crucial for developing the right chewiness in your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. Form the dough into a ball when you’re finished.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Keep an eye out for its puffiness—this rising period is essential for achieving that fluffy interior.
Step 6: Shape the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal portions and roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches in length. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a loop and twisting the ends over each other before securing them.
Step 7: Prepare the Boiling Solution
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while bringing 10 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, carefully add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the water. This step is crucial as it prepares the baking soda solution that will give your pretzels their signature chewy crust.
Step 8: Boil the Pretzels
Gently lower each pretzel into the boiling water one at a time, boiling them for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water, allowing any excess liquid to drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This process adds to the wonderful texture of your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Step 9: Brush and Top the Pretzels
Once the pretzels are on the baking sheet, brush each one with a beaten egg using a pastry brush. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake. Next, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and sprinkle this topping generously over the pretzels.
Step 10: Bake the Pretzels
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and let the enticing aroma fill your kitchen; it’s a sure sign that tasty Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are on their way!
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This brief cooling period ensures that they maintain their lovely texture. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of soft pretzel and sweet cinnamon sugar with family or friends!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Monitor Water Temperature: Ensure the water is around 110°F (43°C) when activating the yeast to prevent killing it, leading to proper dough rise.
- Proper Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet; adjust flour or water as needed for the right texture.
- Shape with Care: When forming pretzels, make sure the ends are tightly secured to prevent them from unraveling during boiling.
- Boiling Matters: Use a slotted spoon to gently lift pretzels from the boiling water, which helps maintain their shape and chewy texture.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, enjoy these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels fresh out of the oven or warmed up for a comforting snack.
- Extra Cinnamon Sugar: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle with more cinnamon sugar immediately after baking for an even sweeter finish!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Variations
Feel free to get creative with these pretzels, transforming them into something uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Savory Twist: Experiment with garlic powder or rosemary in the dough for a savory version that pairs perfectly with dips.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mix for a surprising heat that balances well with sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stuff the pretzels with dark chocolate pieces before shaping for a delicious chocolatey delight with each bite.
- Apple-Cinnamon Style: Mix dried apples or apple pie filling into the dough for a twist reminiscent of apple pie, making them even more comforting.
- Vanilla Bean Bliss: Incorporate vanilla extract into the dough for a fragrant twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve these pretzels with a warm cinnamon honey butter or a gooey caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Alternative Toppings: Instead of cinnamon sugar, try topping with everything bagel seasoning for a unique fusion of flavors—a must-try!
These variations ensure that no matter your mood, there’s a way to enjoy your warm, soft pretzels with a personalized touch.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Transform your delightful soft pretzels into a full meal with these perfect pairings that enhance their sweet and savory notes.
- Warm Caramel Dip: A luscious, buttery treat that adds a sweet, gooey element to the soft texture of the pretzels.
- Creamy Cheese Dip: This savory pairing creates a delicious contrast, offering richness that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Brings a refreshing tanginess to your plate, with juicy berries to complement the warm, spiced pretzels beautifully.
- Chocolate Ganache: The deep flavors of chocolate elevate the pretzels to a decadent dessert—it’s an irresistible indulgence.
- Cinnamon Honey Butter: A delightful spread that enhances each bite of the pretzels, creating an experience that’s both sweet and buttery.
- Iced Coffee: The cooling depth of coffee contrasts the warm pretzels perfectly, blending delightful flavors for any time of day—great for brunch or an afternoon treat.
- Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: Top your warm pretzels with a scoop of smooth ice cream for a delightful dessert experience; the melty goodness is simply divine!
- Apple Cider: This warm drink adds a seasonal flair and perfectly complements the spices in the pretzels, making it a cozy pairing for chilly nights.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly and refrigerate after the initial rise. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then shape and boil as instructed. If you prefer, you can also shape the pretzels and freeze them (before boiling) for up to 3 months. Just boil straight from the freezer for about 45 seconds before baking. This way, you can achieve fresh, warm pretzels at a moment’s notice, ensuring they’re just as delicious as when made fresh!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate them for 4-5 days. Rewarm in the oven for the best texture and taste—around 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes works wonders.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pretzels tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my pretzels?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for active dry yeast that is within its expiration date for the best rise. Use all-purpose flour for the perfect blend of chewiness and texture. Your sugar should be granulated, as brown sugar can alter the crust’s crispiness. Always ensure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C); too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it.
How long will my cinnamon sugar soft pretzels stay fresh?
Your homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels will be best enjoyed fresh. At room temperature, they can last for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. If refrigerated, they’ll stay fresh for 4-5 days. However, I recommend reheating them for the best experience!
Can I freeze my cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
Yes, you can freeze your pretzels! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. They’ll taste almost freshly baked!
What if my dough isn’t rising properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, there could be a couple of issues. Firstly, check the temperature of your water; if it was too hot, the yeast might have been killed. Make sure your yeast is fresh and has been allowed to activate properly. Give it time—sometimes it may need a little longer to rise, especially in a cooler environment. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm area or near the oven to help it rise.
Are these pretzels suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
A great question! This cinnamon sugar soft pretzel recipe contains gluten and dairy, making it unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you could experiment with gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free butter as substitutes. As always, ensure to check the specific ingredients for any allergies or restrictions your guests might have.
Can I add different flavors to my pretzels?
Very! Feel free to personalize your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels. You can add spices like nutmeg, or even vanilla extract to the dough for a unique flavor twist. For something extra indulgent, consider stuffing the pretzels with cream cheese or chocolate before shaping them. The more the merrier!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour with salt. Whisk together.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients along with melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
- Punch down the dough, divide into 8 portions, and shape into pretzels.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and boil 10 cups of water with baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, then remove and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
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