As I stood in my kitchen, the intoxicating scent of cinnamon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite carnival treats. These Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels have become a staple in my home, where the delightful combination of salty dough and sweet cinnamon sugar creates the perfect snack for any occasion. What’s even better? This beginner-friendly recipe is not only a fantastic way to impress your friends, but it also allows you to enjoy the joy of homemade pretzels without the fuss. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or indulging in a cozy night in, these pretzels are a warm, comforting delight that never disappoints. Curious about how to make your own batch of these delicious soft pretzels? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Pretzels So Irresistible?
Warm, Soft Texture: Each bite features a pillowy interior that melts in your mouth, reminiscent of your favorite childhood treats.
Sweet Cinnamon Crunch: The generous coating of cinnamon sugar adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the salty dough.
Beginner-Friendly: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a perfect recipe for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile Treat: Whether served as a snack at parties or enjoyed during a cozy movie night, these pretzels fit any occasion. Plus, you can dip them in warm caramel or melted chocolate for an extra indulgent experience!
Quick to Make: With a total time of under two hours, you can have fresh, homemade pretzels that are sure to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will be a hit—trust me, they vanish quickly!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Ingredients
Ready to create these delightful treats at home? Here’s everything you’ll need!
For the Dough
- Active dry yeast – This core leavening agent makes the dough rise and keeps it soft; you can swap it for instant yeast if you prefer.
- Warm water – Use water that’s warm (around 110°F) to efficiently activate the yeast without harming it.
- Granulated sugar – This sweetener nourishes the yeast for a better rise and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- All-purpose flour – The foundation of your pretzel dough, providing the essential texture and chewiness.
- Salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the dough, contributing to a tasty outcome.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Makes the pretzels tender and rich, ensuring a golden, beautiful finish once baked.
For the Boiling Solution
- Baking soda – This is vital for dipping your pretzels, giving them their unique chewy crust and darker color.
For the Topping
- Large egg (beaten) – Essential for creating a glossy finish on your baked pretzels.
- Granulated sugar (for topping) – Sprinkled on top, it adds a sweet crunch that enhances each bite.
- Ground cinnamon – Provides that warm, spicy flavor that makes these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels irresistible.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s prepare to indulge in the warm embrace of homemade pretzels!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F) with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly—this indicates the yeast is alive. This step is crucial for making delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast is activated, pour it into the bowl along with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should begin to pull away from the sides of the bowl, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the rough dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. To knead, push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, fold it over, and repeat. When it’s ready, it should be soft to the touch but not sticky. This perfect texture is essential for making those fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you can poke the dough and it holds the indentation—a sign of perfect fermentation!
Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
Once risen, punch down the dough to release air and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch long rope, then twist the ends of the rope to form a pretzel shape. Ensure the ends are tucked underneath the pretzel for a neat look. This shaping will create visually appealing and delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare the Boiling Water
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a rolling boil, then carefully add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the water. This will create a bubbling reaction, turning your water into the perfect pretzel-boiling solution. Ensure to monitor the pot, so it doesn’t overflow!
Step 7: Boil the Pretzels
Using a slotted spatula, gently dip each shaped pretzel into the boiling soda solution for 30 seconds. This crucial step creates that iconic chewy crust. After boiling, remove each pretzel and let excess water drip off before placing them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. The transformations are almost complete for your flavorful Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!
Step 8: Finish and Bake
Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish, then generously sprinkle with a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Your home will be filled with a mouthwatering aroma, beckoning all to enjoy the warm treats fresh from the oven.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are fantastic for meal prep and will save you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and allow it to rise before covering and refrigerating it. When you’re ready to bake, just let the dough come to room temperature, then shape and boil as directed. Alternatively, you can shape the pretzels and store them covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze the shaped pretzels for up to 2 months. Just remember to boil them directly from the freezer—no need to thaw! This way, you’ll have fresh, mouthwatering pretzels ready to enjoy with minimal effort.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Elevate your homemade treat experience with delightful pairings that enhance the joy of your warm, sugary bites.
- Creamy Cheese Dip: This smooth, rich dip balances the sweet pretzels with a savory note, making each bite unforgettable.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm melted chocolate on top creates a decadent indulgence that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.
- Caramel Sauce: A warm dip of sweet caramel adds a luscious contrast, turning your pretzels into an extraordinary dessert treat.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A steaming cup of apple cider, infused with cinnamon, reflects the flavors of the pretzels, enhancing the overall cozy experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pretzels, adding a burst of freshness to your snack time.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warms each bite, transforming your soft pretzels into a delightful sundae.
- Nutty Trail Mix: The crunchiness of a nutty mix introduces texture and health, creating a balance of flavors that works beautifully with sweet pretzels.
- Coffee or Latte: A warm cup of coffee or a frothy latte creates the perfect pairing for indulgent treats, with rich flavors that enhance the sweetness.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations
Feel free to get creative with these soft pretzels and explore unique flavors that will elevate your homemade treats!
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Decadent Dips: Serve with warm caramel dip or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a sweet twist. Pairing these soft pretzels with dipping sauces offers a delightful explosion of flavors that elevate each bite.
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Spice it Up: Add different spices like nutmeg or vanilla to the sugar mixture for an intriguing flavor profile. A touch of nutmeg introduces an unexpected warmth, taking the pretzels to a whole new delicious level.
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Savory Spin: Swap cinnamon sugar for garlic powder and parmesan cheese for a tangy, savory flavor. These pretzels will become an irresistible appetizer or snack that pleases savory lovers.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped nuts like pecans or almonds before baking for added texture. The crunchy topping beautifully contrasts with the soft interior, changing things up with every bite.
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Glazed Finish: Create a simple glaze using powdered sugar and milk, and drizzle it over the warm pretzels. This adds a sweet finish that gels perfectly with the softness of the pretzels.
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: Roll the dough with a filling of cinnamon brown sugar and butter before shaping into pretzels. These will taste like cinnamon rolls on the go—a delightful surprise for fans of sweet pastries!
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough before shaping. Every bite will deliver a rich chocolate flavor, giving you a sweet indulgence that’s hard to resist.
Don’t forget to check out other delicious treats like Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting and Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread for more delightful baking inspiration!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without any additional fuss.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, consider placing pretzels in the fridge for up to a week. Just wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the pretzels in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Make sure they are securely wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels later, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This brings back their delightful chewiness!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Warm Water Precision: Use a thermometer to ensure the water is about 110°F. Too hot, and it may kill the yeast, preventing your pretzels from rising.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough ample time to double in size; this gives your pretzels that fluffy, tender texture everyone loves.
- Boiling is Essential: Don’t skip the baking soda boiling step! It’s critical for developing that characteristic chewy crust and rich color of traditional pretzels.
- Egg Wash Magic: Brush each pretzel thoroughly with beaten egg before baking for a beautiful, golden finish that also helps the cinnamon sugar adhere.
- Enjoy Fresh: These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are best eaten fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat gently to retain their fluffiness!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Absolutely! For the best results, pick active dry yeast that is fresh and within its expiration date; this ensures it will effectively rise your dough. The flour should be all-purpose and free from lumps. As for the granulated sugar, any kind is suitable, but using finely granulated sugar helps ensure better incorporation into the dough.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
I recommend keeping your leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, so they maintain their delightful soft texture. If you need to store them longer, you can put them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but be sure they are wrapped well to prevent drying.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze your pretzels for up to 2-3 months. To do this, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to push out any excess air to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my pretzel dough isn’t rising?
If you find that your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to a few reasons. First, make sure your yeast is still active; if it didn’t foam during the activation step, it may be expired. Next, ensure the water you used was warm but not hot, ideally around 110°F. If something seems off, try placing the dough in a warmer location, like an oven set to a low temperature (no more than 100°F) with the door slightly ajar.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious as this recipe contains gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter and egg). For gluten-free variations, I suggest using a gluten-free flour blend and following a suitable recipe for egg substitutes if needed. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Feel Like a Warm Hug
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and melted butter, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide into 8 equal pieces, and roll into 18-inch ropes. Twist to form pretzels.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Boil 10 cups of water, and add baking soda to create the pretzel boiling solution.
- Dip each pretzel into the boiling soda solution for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
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