Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels You'll Want to Devour Today
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast (Can substitute with instant yeast); 1.25 cups Warm water (About 110°F); 3 tablespoons Granulated sugar; 4 cups All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted; 0.67 cup Baking soda; 1 large Egg, beaten; 0.25 cup Granulated sugar (For topping); 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of cinnamon wafted through the air, wrapping me in a nostalgic embrace. It was time to create a batch of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, my go-to treat that never fails to spark joy. With their pillowy softness and sweet coating, these homemade pretzels are not only a delightful indulgence but also incredibly beginner-friendly. The best part? They come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy movie night or a gathering with friends. Each bite offers that perfect balance of sweetness and spice, providing comfort with every morsel. Ready to roll up your sleeves and transform your kitchen into a cozy bakery? Let’s dive right into this delicious adventure!

Why Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?

Unforgettable Flavor: The warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon sugar transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven.
Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a pro; this recipe is simple enough for anyone to whip up.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether celebrating or indulging solo, these pretzels are great for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They’re a guaranteed hit at parties, making them a go-to snack for friends and family.
Versatile Delight: Pair them with chocolate ganache or caramel dip for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ready to become the star of your next gathering? Dive into this recipe now and don’t forget to check out our guide on baking tips for perfect pretzels.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients

For the Dough

Active dry yeast – Essential for a soft and chewy texture; you can also use instant yeast in the same amount.
Warm water – Activates the yeast; make sure it’s just warm to the touch, not hot.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and nourishes the yeast for optimal rising.
All-purpose flour – Provides chewiness and structure to your pretzels.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden color.

For the Boiling Bath

Baking soda – Creates a chewy crust and deep, golden hue when boiling the pretzels.

For Topping

Large egg, beaten – Gives the pretzels a glossy finish when brushed on before baking.
Granulated sugar (for topping) – Adds a delightful crunch and sweetness once baked.
Ground cinnamon – Infuses your pretzels with a warm, inviting flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugar.

Get ready to create delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that everyone will want to devour!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, pour 1 1/4 cups of warm water and sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the surface. Stir in 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step is crucial for ensuring your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will rise beautifully!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, creating a space for the yeast. This combination will provide the perfect structure to your pretzels, setting the stage for that chewy goodness everyone loves.

Step 3: Mix and Form the Dough
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mixture along with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Use a wooden spoon to mix until it starts to come together. When the dough is shaggy, transfer it onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic, indicating it’s ready for rising.

Step 4: Allow the Dough to Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size. This is the moment where your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels begin to take shape, as the dough becomes airy and pillowy.

Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, rolling each piece into an 18-inch long rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel by twisting the ends together and folding them back onto the center. This fun process will give your pretzels their iconic shape!

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
As you finish shaping your pretzels, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly prepared to give those Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels a golden, crispy exterior as soon as they’re ready to bake.

Step 7: Boil the Pretzels
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and carefully add 2/3 cup of baking soda. Once boiling, drop in each pretzel for about 30 seconds, turning them halfway through cooking. This crucial step creates that chewy crust on your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the boiled pretzels to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg to achieve a beautiful, glossy finish. This egg wash not only enhances the color but also helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.

Step 9: Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Generously sprinkle this mixture over each pretzel before they go into the oven. This sweet topping will create a delightful crunch and ensure that every bite of your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is full of flavor.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should look irresistible and smell heavenly, inviting everyone to enjoy these delightful treats fresh from the oven!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Enjoying your freshly baked soft pretzels alongside delightful complements will elevate your snacking experience.

Creamy Caramel Dip: The sweet, slightly salty profile of a creamy caramel dip brings out the best in the pretzels’ cinnamon sugar topping. Just imagine that rich harmony as you dip—pure bliss!
Chocolate Ganache: The smooth, rich chocolate provides a luxurious contrast to the cinnamon sugar, creating an irresistible sweet and savory combination that will have everyone coming back for more.
Whipped Cream Cheese: This tangy spread adds a delightful burst of flavor, enhancing each cinnamon-swirled bite. Slathering it on a warm pretzel creates a comforting, creamy experience that dances on your palate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds bright, fresh flavors that balance the sweetness of the pretzels. Think strawberries, bananas, and a sprinkle of mint—a refreshing contrast!
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai perfectly complement the warm cinnamon, creating a cozy experience that enhances your enjoyment as you savor each pretzel.
Vanilla Ice Cream: An indulgent scoop of vanilla ice cream turns your pretzel experience into a delightful dessert! The creamy coldness against the warm pretzel is simply divine.
Cinnamon Honey Butter: This rich, sweet spread adds a layer of indulgence, as the honey and cinnamon enhance the flavor while making every bite even more irresistible.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink that offers a delightful contrast, sparkling cider adds a festive touch to your pretzel adventure and keeps the atmosphere light and fun!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; your taste buds will thank you!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a delightful twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled pretzels for an irresistible sweet treat.
Spiced Sugar: Experiment with flavored sugars, like vanilla or nutmeg, to elevate the classic cinnamon topping.
Savory Option: Brush pretzels with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan for a deliciously savory alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for those with dietary restrictions. Feel free to adjust the water content as needed for perfect dough consistency.
Stuffed Pretzels: Fill your pretzel dough with cream cheese or chocolate before shaping for a delightful surprise.
Seasonal Flavors: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice for a festive fall twist or zest of lemon for a refreshing summer flavor.
Heat It Up: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot honey to add a spicy kick to each delicious bite.

No matter which variation you choose, your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will become an unforgettable highlight in your kitchen. For more ideas on flavor combinations, check out our guide on making the perfect sweet dough!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Perfect Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is warm but not hot (about 110°F), as overheating can kill the yeast, preventing your pretzels from rising.

Knead Well: Be patient while kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes; this builds gluten, giving your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels their chewy texture.

Don’t Skip the Boil: Boiling the pretzels before baking is essential for creating that signature chewy crust. It makes all the difference!

Egg Wash Importance: Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg for a glossy finish, which helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and gives a beautiful color.

Cool Before Storing: Allow the pretzels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.

Serve Warm: For the best experience, enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels warm straight from the oven, paired with your favorite dips!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor their deliciousness with minimal effort during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply let the dough rise, then shape the pretzels and refrigerate them on a baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, boil the pretzels briefly, apply the egg wash, and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar before baking. This way, you’ll have freshly baked, pillowy-soft treats just as delicious as if made on the spot, making your mealtime stress-free!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days; just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pretzels in a resealable plastic bag for 2-3 months. Ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping them securely.

Reheating: To enjoy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat frozen pretzels for 5-7 minutes until warm and soft again.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

What type of yeast should I use for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Absolutely! You can use either active dry yeast or instant yeast for this recipe. Both will work perfectly, just ensure to follow the same quantity of 2 1/4 teaspoons for either option!

How do I know when my yeast is active?
Look for the yeast mixture to become foamy after about 5 to 10 minutes of resting in warm water with sugar. If it doesn’t foam up, your yeast may be expired, and I recommend starting over to ensure your pretzels rise beautifully.

Can I store my Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels for later?
Yes! For up to 2 days, keep your pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to save them longer, they can be refrigerated for 5 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to keep them fresh.

How do I freeze my Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
To freeze, let the pretzels cool completely, then place them in a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes!

Can pets eat Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
While the ingredients are not toxic, it’s best to avoid giving these pretzels to pets, especially due to sugar and spices like cinnamon, which may not sit well with their digestive systems. Moderation is key with all human foods!

Why is boiling the pretzels important?
Very! Boiling the pretzels in a baking soda solution before baking is crucial. It creates that signature chewy crust and beautiful golden color, contributing to the mouthwatering texture we all love in Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. Don’t skip it!