Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 packet Active Dry Yeast (can substitute with instant yeast); 1 cup Warm Water (ensure it's warm to activate yeast); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (to activate the yeast); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (provides structure and chewiness); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor); ¼ cup Unsalted Butter (melted, adds richness); ⅔ cup Baking Soda (for the boiling water bath); 1 large Egg (beaten, for egg wash); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (for topping); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (for topping)

As I pulled that first batch of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels from the oven, the cozy aroma of warm cinnamon and sugar enveloped my kitchen like a familiar blanket. It’s hard to resist the allure of these pillowy delights, perfect for a rainy afternoon or a gathering with friends. This beginner-friendly recipe not only infuses your space with heartwarming scents, but it also transforms simple ingredients into a delectable treat that’s wonderfully shareable. Each pretzel is soft, chewy, and finished with a sweet crust, offering a delightful contrast that makes every bite a moment worth savoring. Are you ready to elevate your snack game with this cozy homemade recipe? Let’s dive into the details!

Why are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Flavor: Each bite of these pretzels brings you the delightful warmth of cinnamon and sugar, making them perfect for cozy evenings.

Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a baking pro! This recipe is simple enough for anyone to whip up, bringing homemade comforts to your kitchen effortlessly.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or having a family movie night, these soft pretzels are always a hit at gatherings.

Versatile Goodness: Enjoy them plain, or elevate them with a drizzle of chocolate or a side of warm caramel dip for a tasty twist!

Perfectly Textured: With a chewy crust and soft interior, these pretzels strike a perfect balance that will have you coming back for seconds.

Prepare to experience cookie magic with these delightful treats that you can make at home!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients

Perfect for your cozy gatherings!

For the Dough

Active Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise and achieve a soft, chewy texture; can be substituted with instant yeast.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm to avoid killing the yeast.
Granulated Sugar (in the dough) – Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for a delightful rise.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and chewiness of the pretzels.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances out the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture to the dough for a tender texture.

For the Boiling Process

Baking Soda – Used in the boiling water bath, it develops the characteristic chewy crust of cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.

For the Topping

Large Egg (beaten) – Gives the pretzels a shiny, golden finish when brushed on before baking.
Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch to the pretzels.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the pretzels with warm, spicy flavors, perfectly complementing the sweetness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 packet of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let this mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This bubbling effect indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to create the fluffy dough needed for your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once well combined, pour in the yeast mixture and ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Be sure to enjoy the warm aroma of yeast and butter as you bring it together for the perfect base of your pretzels.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Aim for a soft, pliable texture that springs back when poked. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope, about 24 inches each. Twist these ropes into classic pretzel shapes, folding the ends over each other and pressing to seal. Admire your creations as they take on the charming shape of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!

Step 5: Boil the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and ⅔ cup of baking soda to a rolling boil. Gently lower each pretzel into the water bath for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to avoid splashing and ensure they cook evenly. You will notice the pretzels puff slightly as they swim in this bubbly bath, enhancing their chewy texture.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Remove the boiled pretzels from the pot and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk a large egg and brush this egg wash generously over each pretzel to achieve that beautiful golden finish. Now, sprinkle them with a mixture of ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, allowing the sweet coating to adhere perfectly.

Step 7: Bake the Pretzels
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pretzels are gloriously golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; the delicious scent of cinnamon and sugar will fill your kitchen, tempting you to pull them out right on time. Once baked, allow the Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and kneading it, then letting it rise for the allotted time before placing it in the refrigerator. This cold rise will enhance the flavor while keeping the dough fresh. Shape the pretzels and boil them right before baking to maintain their delightful texture. Simply allow them to come to room temperature while your oven preheats. You can also sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar just before baking to ensure they stay sweet and crunchy. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have warm, homemade pretzels ready for your busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Store pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture. Keep them away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days in a sealed container, but this might affect their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: To restore their delightful texture, reheat frozen pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Making Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Knead Properly: Ensure dough is kneaded well for a soft, chewy texture. Rushing this step can lead to dense pretzels.
Watch the Temperature: Always check that the water used for activating yeast is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill yeast and prevent dough from rising.
Avoid Over-Boiling: Stick to the 30-second boiling time! Over-boiling might make your pretzels too hard.
Egg Wash Magic: Apply a generous egg wash before baking. This step is crucial for that glossy, golden finish on your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.
Sprinkle Right Away: Add cinnamon sugar immediately after egg washing so it sticks well to the pretzels before they go in the oven.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

There’s nothing quite like pairing these warm, sweet treats with delightful sides that enhance their comforting flavors.

Creamy Mac and Cheese: The richness of creamy mac and cheese creates a wonderful contrast to the sweet pretzels, making each bite more indulgent.
Chili Con Carne: The spicy warmth of chili provides a hearty balance against the sweetness of the pretzels, perfect for dipping.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad bursting with citrusy notes cleanses the palate between bites of the sugary pretzels, adding a refreshing touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream juxtaposes beautifully with the chewy pretzels, bringing a nostalgic dessert vibe to your plate.
Hot Chocolate: What’s sweeter than cinnamon sugar? Pair these soft pretzels with a steaming mug of hot chocolate for a cozy indulgence to warm your heart.
Honey Butter Dipping Sauce: Warm caramel or a cinnamon honey butter dipping sauce elevates each bite, creating a sweet experience that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Let your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels shine alongside these delightful pairings that will enhance every moment around the table!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that the whole family will love!

Chocolate Drizzle:
Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm pretzels for a sweet, indulgent addition. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Caramel Dipping Sauce:
Serve with warm caramel dip for a gooey treat that pairs beautifully with the warm spices of cinnamon.
Cinnamon Honey Butter:
Mix softened butter with cinnamon and honey for a creamy spread that adds a rich twist to each pretzel bite.
Nuts & Seeds:
Top your pretzels with crushed pecans or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.
Spicy Kick:
Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar mix for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness!
Cheese Stuffed:
Roll cheese into the dough before shaping into a pretzel, creating a savory surprise inside every bite. Imagine the gooey goodness!
Pumpkin Spice:
Swap in pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a cozy fall flavor that warms the soul—delicious for any season!
Gluten-Free Option:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a tasty treat catering to gluten-sensitive friends without missing out on flavor.

Each of these variations offers a unique way to enjoy the soft pretzels that are bound to delight your taste buds. You might also enjoy serving them with a homemade warm caramel dip or checking out a delicious chocolate ganache to take your sweet experience to the next level! Happy baking!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?
Absolutely! When you dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with sugar, it should become foamy after resting for 5-10 minutes. If you don’t see bubbles or foam, it may be best to start over with fresh yeast. This step is crucial for achieving those fluffy and delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!

What’s the best way to store leftover pretzels?
To keep your pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re looking to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days, but be aware that this might slightly change their texture. The more the merrier when it comes to enjoying them fresh!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months! Here’s how: First, allow the baked pretzels to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Next, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and deliciously soft!

What should I do if my pretzels turn out hard?
If your pretzels are overly hard, it may be due to over-boiling. Remember to only boil each pretzel for 30 seconds! If you find this has happened, consider lowering the boiling time next round. Additionally, ensure your dough is thoroughly kneaded to develop the right texture and rise; rushing this process can lead to denser pretzels.

Are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels suitable for kids with allergies?
Very! This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For those sensitive to eggs, you might try using a milk wash or leaving them off entirely. For gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; just be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they fit within any dietary restrictions. Your little ones will appreciate the effort!

How ripe should the ingredients be?
For the best results, make sure your active dry yeast is fresh (check the expiration date on the package) and that your unsalted butter is melted but not too hot. This will give your dough that tender, soft texture that makes these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels irresistible!