As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon swirling around me, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. There’s something magical about baking that can transport you back to cherished moments, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, a beginner-friendly treat that’s sure to warm your heart and home. These soft pretzels boast a tender, doughy center with a slightly crispy exterior, all generously sprinkled with the perfect cinnamon sugar blend. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also make for a delightful snack that can be enjoyed on your own or shared with loved ones. Are you ready to embrace the cozy vibes and create a batch of these mouthwatering pretzels? Let’s dive in!
Why are These Pretzels a Must-Try?
Irresistibly Warm: Freshly baked, these pretzels exude warmth that beckons you to take a bite.
Beginner-Friendly: Simplified steps make the process enjoyable, even for novice bakers.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain or experiment with toppings like caramel dip or chocolate ganache—perfect for any occasion!
Nostalgic Flavors: The comforting blend of cinnamon and sugar recreates childhood memories of bakery visits.
Perfect for Sharing: Gather friends and family to indulge in these soft, delightful snacks; they’re sure to be a hit!
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Ingredients
For the Dough
- Active dry yeast – Vital for your cinnamon sugar pretzels to rise and become fluffy.
- Warm water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm to avoid killing the yeast.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough, helping fermentation and flavor.
- All-purpose flour – Gives structure; for extra chewiness, consider bread flour.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Contributes to tenderness and a rich taste.
For Boiling and Topping
- Baking soda – Crucial for that signature chewy crust and deep brown color.
- Large egg (beaten) – Provides a beautiful, glossy finish when brushed on before baking.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds aromatic warmth to the sweet topping mixture.
- Additional granulated sugar – Reserved for a delightful topping to coat the pretzels once baked.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial for your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, as it ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Step 2: Mix Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it along with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together. This mixture will create a tender interior for your soft pretzels.
Step 3: Knead Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s soft to the touch and springs back when pressed. Don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of flour if the dough feels too sticky while shaping.
Step 4: Let Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 to 1.5 hours. The dough should double in size during this time, which will create those fluffy cinnamon sugar soft pretzels you crave.
Step 5: Shape Pretzels
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into an 18-inch long rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel by twisting the ends together and folding them back to the center. This fun step shapes your delicious treats for baking.
Step 6: Boil Pretzels
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a rolling boil and add ⅓ cup of baking soda. Carefully place each pretzel into the boiling water, cooking for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is vital for the chewy crust that will distinguish your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels from the rest.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Using a slotted spoon, remove each pretzel from the boiling water and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top of each pretzel with a beaten egg to promote a beautiful, glossy finish, and then sprinkle generously with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for that sweet outer layer.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and wonderfully aromatic. The combination of the heat and the sugar will create that irresistible, warm cinnamon sugar crust that makes these soft pretzels so delightful. Allow them to cool slightly before savoring.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
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Room Temperature: Keep cinnamon sugar pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and delicious flavor.
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Fridge: If you plan to store them longer, you can refrigerate pretzels in an airtight container for up to 5 days, though this may affect their texture.
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Freezer: For ideal long-term storage, wrap pretzels tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months; they’ll be just as delightful after thawing!
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Reheating: To enjoy your cinnamon sugar pretzels again, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through for that fresh-baked taste.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Warm, freshly baked cinnamon sugar soft pretzels pair perfectly with delicious sides and sweet dips, bringing your snacking experience to the next level.
- Creamy Cheese Dip: A rich cheese dip offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pretzels, enhancing each bite with layers of flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on your pretzels adds a decadent touch that makes every mouthful feel indulgent and special.
- Chocolate Ganache: The silky, rich chocolate complements the soft pretzels beautifully, making them a delightful dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Cinnamon Honey Butter: This blend brings a delightful burst of sweetness and creaminess, perfectly echoing the cinnamon notes in the pretzels.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad contrasts the warmth of the pretzels with refreshing notes, providing a vibrant balance to your plate.
- Iced Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Pairing these sweet snacks with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or a chilled iced coffee creates a cozy café experience at home.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
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Watch the Water Temperature: Ensure your warm water is around 110°F; too hot can kill the yeast and hinder dough rise.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough for a full 5–7 minutes to develop gluten, which gives your cinnamon sugar pretzels the desired chewiness.
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Don’t Skip the Boil: Boiling in baking soda water is essential for that iconic golden-brown crust; it’s the secret to a chewy texture.
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Properly Shape Pretzels: When shaping, twist the dough tightly and ensure the ends are well secured to prevent them from unraveling during boiling.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your pretzels in the oven; baking them just until golden will keep the interior soft and fluffy.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough overnight. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and boiling. Additionally, you can also shape the pretzels and freeze them for up to 3 days before boiling. Just be sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before proceeding with the boiling step for the best quality. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll savor the warm, comforting taste of homemade pretzels with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize your cinnamon sugar pretzels to fit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the unsalted butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a deliciously dairy-free treat.
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Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose for a heartier texture and added nutrition. The nutty flavor is a lovely complement to the cinnamon.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the blend contains a binding agent for optimal texture.
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Churro Style: After baking, toss pretzels in a mixture of cinnamon sugar and melted butter for an extra sweet, churro-like finish.
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Savory Twist: Instead of cinnamon sugar, top with a garlic butter mix and sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a delightful savory pretzel version.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to your cinnamon sugar topping for a surprising kick that balances the sweet.
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Mini Pretzels: Shape smaller pretzels for bite-sized snacks, perfect for parties or family movie nights. They’ll bake in about 5-8 minutes.
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Topping Combo: For those who can’t choose just one topping, drizzle with a chocolate ganache while still warm, or sprinkle with crushed nuts after brushing with egg wash.
These variations and substitutions can help you create your perfect version of cinnamon sugar soft pretzels! And while you’re at it, why not try pairing them with an indulgent dip? You might also enjoy dipping them in caramel sauce or enjoy them alongside an irresistible sweet like Soft Chewy Pumpkin cookies. The options are as unlimited as your creativity!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right yeast for my pretzels?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using active dry yeast, as it’s reliable and straightforward for beginners. If you want to speed things up, you can easily substitute with instant yeast, which doesn’t require activation—just mix it directly with your dry ingredients.
How do I store leftover pretzels?
Very simply! Store your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but be aware that this may change their texture.
Can I freeze the pretzels?
Of course! To freeze your cinnamon sugar pretzels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore their warmth and softness.
Why did my pretzels turn out too tough?
If your pretzels are tougher than expected, it could be due to over-kneading the dough or not allowing it to rise sufficiently. Knead your dough just until smooth and elastic—about 5-7 minutes is perfect. Also, ensure that you let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment until it doubles in size to achieve that soft texture.
Are these pretzels safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are generally safe for humans, they aren’t suitable for pets. Specifically, the sugar and butter can upset your furry friends’ stomachs, so it’s best to keep these delicious treats out of reach from them. Always check your pet’s dietary requirements if you have doubts!
What if I want to switch up the flavors?
The great news is, the creative possibilities are endless! If you’re in the mood for something different, consider replacing the cinnamon sugar topping with a savory garlic butter mixture or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. You could also experiment with nut toppings or chocolate drizzle for an indulgent twist! Let your imagination run wild!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels: Cozy, Warm, and Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate yeast: Combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar in a bowl, stir, and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix dough: Whisk flour and salt together, then add yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until combined.
- Knead dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Let rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours.
- Shape pretzels: Punch dough down, divide, roll each piece into a rope, and shape into pretzels.
- Boil pretzels: Boil water with baking soda, add pretzels one at a time and cook for 30 seconds per side.
- Prepare for baking: Remove from water, place on parchment-lined sheet, brush with egg, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
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