The warm smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to crisp autumn mornings. There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon and sugar, and when it meets a soft, chewy pretzel, it becomes a snack I can’t resist. This recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is not just a delightful treat; it’s an experience that can brighten any day. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these golden, sweet delights that are perfect for breakfast, a cozy snack, or a simple dessert. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them an easy go-to when a craving strikes! Are you ready to add this homemade joy to your own kitchen?
Why are these pretzels so irresistible?
Fluffy Inside: The perfect balance of soft and chewy texture that makes every bite a pleasure.
Irresistible Sweetness: Coated in a heavenly cinnamon-sugar blend, they satisfy those sweet cravings effortlessly.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can create these delicious treats in no time. Check out my other easy recipes for more quick bites!
Versatile Delight: Whether for breakfast, a midday snack, or a tasty dessert, they’re always a hit with family and friends.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and keep them handy for those sudden cravings—just pop them in the oven!
Cultural Comfort: Embrace a piece of tradition with every bite, reminiscent of cozy street fairs and family gatherings.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water – 1 1/2 cups; this is essential for activating yeast, ensuring ideal temperatures around 110°F (43°C) for best results.
• Active Dry Yeast – 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet); necessary for dough rising and achieving that perfectly light texture.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 tbsp; acts as food for the yeast, fostering a delightful rise during fermentation.
• All-Purpose Flour – 4 cups; the foundation of your pretzels, creating their chewy structure.
• Salt – 1 tsp; enhances overall flavor while regulating yeast activity for a balanced rise.
• Unsalted Butter – 4 tbsp, melted; brings richness to the dough—feel free to swap with coconut oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
For Boiling and Baking
• Boiling Water – 10 cups; crucial for the pretzel crust-forming process that gives that distinctive texture.
• Baking Soda – 2/3 cup; adds that traditional pretzel essence and beautiful color during boiling.
For the Topping
• Unsalted Butter (for Topping) – 1/4 cup, melted; helps the cinnamon-sugar coating stick while adding moisture.
• Granulated Sugar (for Topping) – 1/2 cup; sweetens these treats even further, making them hard to resist.
• Ground Cinnamon – 1 tbsp; brings the signature warmth of cinnamon, perfectly complementing the sugar in a delicious topping.
Get ready to indulge in these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that will make your taste buds dance!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of warm water (around 110°F or 43°C), 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Next, gradually incorporate 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
Once kneaded, transfer the dough to a greased mixing bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for developing the fluffy interior texture of your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, so be patient!
Step 3: Shape Pretzels
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 24 inches in length. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape and place the formed pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for rising.
Step 4: Boil Pretzels
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil. For each pretzel, carefully place it in the boiling water for about 30 seconds, which will create that iconic crust. Using a slotted spatula, remove the pretzel and place it back on the baking sheet, continuing this process until all pretzels are boiled.
Step 5: Apply Topping
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). As the oven heats, brush each boiled pretzel with 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Generously sprinkle this delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture over each pretzel to enhance their sweet flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Once the pretzels are topped, bake them in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on the color during baking; the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will have a rich, inviting hue that enhances their cozy appeal.
Step 7: Cool/Warm Serve
After baking, remove the pretzels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. For the best flavor and texture experience, serve them warm. These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for snacking, breakfast, or even as a dessert treat to enjoy with family and friends!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Imagine cozying up with these warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated delights while crafting a beautiful meal moment.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Its rich flavors and warmth perfectly complement the sweetness of the pretzels, creating a comforting experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing burst of seasonal fruits adds a light balance to the sweet pretzels, enhancing each bite with vibrant flavors.
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Savory Cheese Dip: Offering a delightful contrast, a sharp cheese dip can elevate your snack into a fun party treat.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices of apple cider echo the pretzels’ cinnamon notes, making this pairing a true autumn favorite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm pretzels creates a heavenly dessert treat that everyone will love.
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Nutty Coffee: The robust, nutty flavors in coffee provide a delightful contrast to the sweet aroma of cinnamon-sugar while delivering a caffeine boost.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your pretzels amplifies the sweetness and adds a luscious texture you’re sure to savor.
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Milk: Cold or warm, a glass of milk is a classic pairing that enhances the nostalgic vibe of these cozy treats.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
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Perfect Water Temperature: Use warm water around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring your pretzels rise beautifully.
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Knead Well: Knead the dough for at least 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the chewy texture of your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your pretzels while baking. They should be golden brown; over-baking can lead to tough pretzels.
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Boil for Crust: Boiling the pretzels is essential for that classic chewy crust. Don’t skip this step for perfect texture!
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Cool for Timing: Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving; they’re best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature, too.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store your pretzels in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed warm, so consider reheating them in the oven for a few minutes.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate prepared Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their softness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, shape the pretzels but do not bake them. Place them on a baking tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking as directed.
Reheating: To enjoy stale pretzels, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and shape the pretzels, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. This helps enhance their flavors while allowing you to skip the mixing and rising steps on the day you want to bake them. Alternatively, you can boil the shaped pretzels, place them on a tray, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the pretzels overnight in the refrigerator, then brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar before baking as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, soft pretzels ready in no time!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists on this cherished recipe, appealing to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter for a creamy feel without the dairy. You’ll hardly notice the difference in taste!
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Savory Twist: Add coarse sea salt to your pretzels before baking for a salty contrast to the sweet cinnamon-sugar coating. It’s a perfect decadence that will surprise your family and friends.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in some finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into your dough for an extra crunch and flavor boost that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Flavored Sugar: Experiment with flavored sugars, like vanilla or maple, in the topping to introduce a new layer of sweetness. It’s a small change that makes a big difference!
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Spice Infusion: Swap ground cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations. You might just find a new favorite!
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Whole Wheat Option: Use white whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier, wholesome version that still delivers on flavor without compromising texture.
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Mini Pretzel Bites: Shape the dough into smaller, bite-sized pieces for fun mini pretzels—a great little snack for kids or parties. These will go faster than you can say “pretzel!”
Feel free to dive into these variations, and don’t hesitate to check out my other easy recipes for more inspiration for your kitchen adventures!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my pretzels?
When choosing ingredients, ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. For warm water, aim for a temperature around 110°F (43°C), which you can test with a kitchen thermometer; it should feel warm but not hot to the touch. Granulated sugar should be fine and free of lumps, while all-purpose flour should be unbleached for the best texture. As for cinnamon, opt for high-quality ground cinnamon for the most flavorful results!
How should I store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
To keep your pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you don’t plan on consuming them within that timeframe, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, reheating in the oven before serving is highly recommended!
Can I freeze my pretzels, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your pretzels, shape them but do not bake. Instead, place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the pretzels in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to several factors. First, check that your yeast is active; it should foam when mixed with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t, it may be expired or the water temperature was too hot or too cold (ideal is 110°F or 43°C). Make sure your dough is in a warm environment during the rising period—sometimes, placing it in the oven with the light on helps! Aim for a spot that is draft-free for optimal rising.
Are the pretzels safe for those with dairy allergies?
Yes! You can easily make these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just be conscious of any other ingredients that might contain dairy, such as toppings or accompaniments. Always check labels to ensure they’re dairy-free to keep your loved ones safe.
How long can I keep the pretzels in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just remember to reheat them in the oven before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste—around 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels: Your New Favorite Cozy Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, salt, and melted unsalted butter. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased mixing bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide into 8-10 pieces, roll each into a 24-inch rope, twist into pretzel shape, and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bring boiling water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, removing them with a slotted spatula.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each pretzel with melted butter and sprinkle with a mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Bake pretzels for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and inviting.
- Allow pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack and serve warm.