Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels: Your New Favorite Homemade Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Active dry yeast (or instant yeast); 1 cup Warm water (not too hot); 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar; 4 cups All-purpose flour (no direct substitutes); 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher or sea salt); 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted (or margarine); 2/3 cup Baking soda; 1 large Egg, beaten (or milk for a vegan option); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (for topping); 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon (consider adding nutmeg)

There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the smell of cinnamon and sugar begins to waft through the air—it’s like a warm embrace on a chilly day. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels during an afternoon of experimenting, and let me tell you, it was a game changer. Each soft pretzel is a plush pillow of dough, generously coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, creating an irresistible combination of flavors that dances on your taste buds.

Perfect for an indulgent dessert or a cozy snack, these pretzels are easy enough for beginner bakers and crowd-pleasing enough to impress guests. You might find yourself making a double batch; trust me, they disappear quickly! So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the joy of making these tantalizing treats together!

Why are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels irresistible?

Warm, Fluffy Texture: The inside of these pretzels is soft and pillowy, making every bite a cozy experience.
Sweet Cinnamon Coating: Each pretzel is generously sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, enhancing their delightful sweetness.
Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for novice bakers, requiring only simple steps and basic ingredients.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert, and easily pair with dips like warm caramel or chocolate for added indulgence.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at gatherings, and watch as they quickly become the star of the show!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Ingredients

For the Dough

Active dry yeast – Key for dough rise; helps achieve that essential soft, chewy texture – instant yeast can be used alternatively.
Warm water – Activates the yeast, ensuring proper fermentation; make sure it’s warm, not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for better rising; try brown sugar for a unique flavor twist.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure and chewiness to the pretzels; for best results, no known direct substitutes are recommended.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; kosher salt offers larger grains or try sea salt for a nuanced taste.
Unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and color while making pretzels tender; margarine can substitute if necessary.

For the Boiling Solution

Baking soda – Essential for a chewy crust and deep brown color, giving these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels their characteristic flavor.

For the Topping

Large egg, beaten – Provides a glossy finish when brushed on pretzels before baking; milk or a milk alternative works for a vegan option.
Granulated sugar (for topping) – Ensures a crunchy sweet layer on the exterior; mix with different spices for fun variations.
Ground cinnamon – Adds that warm, spicy flavor crucial to this recipe; consider adding nutmeg for an extra depth of spice.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, pour 1 cup of warm water, sprinkle the active dry yeast, and stir in 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy—this is essential for your pretzels’ fluffiness!
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture along with 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Combine everything until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Flour your surface and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back gently to the touch. Transfer it to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until it’s doubled in size.
Shape the Pretzels: Once risen, gently punch down the dough, then divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope, then twist and shape them into pretzels, tucking the ends beneath.
Prepare the Boiling Water: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add 2/3 cup of baking soda. This will create that chewy crust we all love!
Boil the Pretzels: Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water, letting them cook for about 30 seconds. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Finish with the Topping: Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg for that gorgeous sheen. Generously sprinkle with a mixture of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before diving in.

Optional: Serve with warm caramel dip for an even more indulgent experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?

Pairing your warm, sugary delights with just the right accompaniments can elevate your snack to a whole new level of enjoyment.

Warm Caramel Dip: This gooey, sweet addition brings a rich depth that perfectly complements the cinnamon and sugar. It’s pure indulgence!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate over the pretzels adds a decadent twist. The sweet bitterness of chocolate juxtaposes beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating.
Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread some of this creamy, spiced butter on a warm pretzel for a buttery, rich experience that bursts with flavor. It’s a match made in heaven!
Creamy Cream Cheese Dip: The tangy richness of cream cheese dip balances the sweetness, making it an excellent pairing for your pretzels.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries, apples, and oranges provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, sugary pretzels, balancing flavors and textures perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve your soft pretzels with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess is divine against the warm pretzel.
Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai has gentle spices that echo the flavors in your pretzels, making for the perfect cozy pairing on a chilly day.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists that can make your pretzels even more exciting!

Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for a plant-based treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Drizzle melted chocolate over baked pretzels for a luscious, indulgent dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Nutty Variation: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with cinnamon.
Spiced Delight: Boost the flavor by mixing in a teaspoon of ginger or allspice to the dough for a warming kick that’s perfect for fall.
Savory Twist: Swap the cinnamon sugar topping for garlic powder and parmesan cheese before baking for a unique take on pretzels that’s perfect with marinara.
Fruit-Infused: Toss in some dried cranberries or chocolate chips into the dough for a hint of fruity sweetness or a sweeter twist.
Glazed Finish: After baking, brush with a sweet glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a shiny, eye-catching finish that adds extra sweetness.
Herby Option: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a fragrant and savory spin on classic pretzels.

Each variation opens up a new world of flavor — let your taste buds guide you!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps of the recipe; after kneading, place it in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and boiling. You can also shape the pretzels and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat your boiling water when ready to finish cooking. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious, warm pretzels ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Yeast Activation: Make sure the water is warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast, resulting in dense pretzels.
Boiling Step: Don’t skip the baking soda boil! This crucial step develops the chewy crust and unique pretzel flavor that defines your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Kneading Technique: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This will ensure the pretzels rise properly and have the perfect texture.
Cooling Time: Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving. They continue to cook from residual heat and can be very hot right out of the oven.
Topping Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices in your sugar topping. Adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon can elevate the flavors of your soft pretzels!

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Store pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. Be sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Refrigeration: In an airtight container, these pretzels can last about 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap cooled cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for 2-3 months; reheat in the oven to enjoy!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?
To ensure your yeast is active, sprinkle it over 1 cup of warm water mixed with a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast for fluffy pretzels.

What’s the best way to store leftover pretzels?
Store your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for about 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Can I freeze cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap cooled pretzels tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore their delightful texture.

What should I do if my pretzels are too tough after baking?
If your pretzels turn out too tough, it could be due to over-kneading the dough or not allowing it enough time to rise. Remember, knead until smooth and elastic but gentle enough to maintain some air bubbles. Also, ensure you let the dough rise until doubled in size, as this step is crucial for texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can use a milk alternative instead of the beaten egg for glazing to make them vegan-friendly. Additionally, be mindful if anyone has a gluten allergy, as this recipe contains all-purpose flour.