Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

There is something absolutely magical about biting into a warm, freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. The pillowy, tender dough flecked with a crackling sweet crust delivers the ultimate comfort snack—perfect for cozy movie nights, festive gatherings, or a well-deserved treat after a long day. You’ll love how the yeasty, golden exterior gives way to a chewy center, all wrapped up in a fragrant cinnamon sugar hug. Let’s walk through making these irresistible crowd-pleasers in your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the number of ingredients fool you—each one in this recipe plays an important role in crafting the authentic flavor and texture that sets homemade Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels apart. From the yeast that brings the dough alive to the final swirl of cinnamon sugar, these elements work together in harmony to make every bite memorable.

• Active dry yeast: This is the key to giving your pretzels that signature, fluffy rise and deliciously chewy texture.
• Warm water: Crucial for activating your yeast—just make sure it’s warm, not hot, for consistent results.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and also works with the yeast to kick-start that rising magic.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your pretzels—this gives them a soft bite without being dense.
• Salt: Brings out the deep, doughy flavor and balances the sweetness from the cinnamon sugar topping.
• Unsalted butter: Adds rich, warm flavor and just the right amount of indulgence to every pretzel.
• Baking soda: Essential for the iconic pretzel chew—boiling the dough briefly in a baking soda bath is a must.
• Large egg: Helps your pretzels bake up shiny and golden, acting as the glue for that sparkly cinnamon sugar.
• Ground cinnamon: Delivers the unmistakable fragrance and warmth signature to classic cinnamon sugar treats.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by pouring your warm water into a small bowl and sprinkling the active dry yeast over the top. Add in the sugar and stir gently until it dissolves. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes—you’ll notice it grows foamy and fragrant, a sure sign your yeast is ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in the foamy yeast mixture along with the melted butter. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix everything together; the dough should begin to come together and pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic ball that springs back when pressed lightly. Place it in a clean, lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours—when it’s doubled in size, it’s ready for shaping.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

Punch down the risen dough to release trapped air, then divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, around 18 inches. To shape, create a big U, twist the ends, and fold them back over the middle to make your classic pretzel shape. This step is hands-on and super fun—don’t stress about perfection!

Step 5: Give Your Pretzels Their Signature Texture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and stir in the baking soda. Carefully drop each formed pretzel, one at a time, into the boiling solution for about 30 seconds. Remove using a slotted spoon and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This quick bath ensures that distinctive chewy exterior.

Step 6: Add Gloss, Sweetness, and Bake

Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg—this step helps them bake up with a stunning golden sheen. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the pretzels while they’re still sticky with egg wash. Pop them into your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving—but don’t wait too long; Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Garnishes

Give your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels an extra finishing touch with a brush of melted butter or a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar right before serving. For a little sparkle, add a pinch of coarse sugar or even a drizzle of cream cheese glaze for a touch of decadence.

Side Dishes

These pretzels pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa, a frothy latte, or even a mug of spiced apple cider. If you’re looking for something slightly savory, serve alongside a bowl of creamy yogurt for dipping or some sweet, whipped mascarpone cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly eye-catching snack setup, stack your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels on a big platter and scatter extra cinnamon sugar between layers. Tuck individually wrapped pretzels into lunchboxes, or tie them with ribbon for sweet edible gifts at your next holiday party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have any pretzels left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Lay a sheet of wax paper or parchment between layers to prevent sticking and preserve that chewy texture.

Freezing

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels freeze wonderfully. Once completely cool, wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap, place in a zip-top freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. This way, you’ll always have a homemade treat on hand for spontaneous cravings.

Reheating

To bring your pretzels back to life, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes or pop one in the microwave for about 20 seconds. If reheating from frozen, let them thaw briefly before warming for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast directly for active dry yeast in this recipe. You won’t need to proof instant yeast in water first, but it’s still a good idea to mix it into your wet ingredients just to be sure it’s evenly incorporated.

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture becomes foamy and smells pleasantly yeasty after sitting with the warm water and sugar for about 5 to 10 minutes, it’s good to go! No foam means you should try again with fresh yeast.

Can I double this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and divide the dough accordingly for more pretzels. Just make sure you have enough space for the dough to rise and plenty of baking trays ready.

Can I make these pretzels vegan?

Definitely. Swap the butter for your favorite vegan substitute, and use a non-dairy milk or olive oil instead of the egg wash. The texture will change slightly but the result is still delicious!

How do I get my Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels extra fluffy?

Kneading the dough thoroughly and letting it rise in a warm, draft-free spot are key for a fluffy, tender pretzel. Don’t rush the rise time—it’s worth the wait for that perfect soft bite!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a guaranteed hit, whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself. They fill your kitchen with the most amazing aroma and create moments everyone will remember. Give this recipe a go—you’ll fall in love with every soft, cinnamon-sugar dusted swirl!

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