Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that Will Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup baking soda; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

There’s something oddly comforting about the aroma of baking bread wafting through your home, reminiscent of street fairs and cozy evenings. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that will transport your taste buds back to those heartwarming moments. This easy homemade treat is perfect for anyone, from seasoned bakers to kitchen novices, making it a fantastic choice for your next gathering or a cozy night in. The sweet cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful twist, while the soft, chewy texture will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or planning a fun treat for friends, these pretzels are both a crowd-pleaser and a simple joy to make. Are you ready to dive into this sweet adventure? Let’s get started!

Why are these the best soft pretzels?

Irresistible Comfort: There’s nothing like the combination of warm, pillowy softness and sweet cinnamon to create a soothing treat.

Baker-Friendly: This recipe is both easy and forgiving, perfect for beginners and experienced chefs alike who want to whip up something delightful.

Quick to Make: With a total time under two hours, you can have golden, delicious pretzels ready in a flash.

Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own or pair with a warm caramel dip for a sweet snack that everyone will love.

Crowd-Pleasing: Serve these treats at gatherings, and watch your friends and family devour them in no time! They’re a hit alongside other favorites, like Snickerdoodles Soft Chewy.

Try these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels for a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients

For the Dough

Active dry yeast – This ingredient is essential for dough rise, creating that beloved soft, chewy texture.
Warm water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm, not hot, for effective fermentation.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and nourishes the yeast for optimal rise.
All-purpose flour – The base for your pretzels, providing structure and chewiness.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness; it’s crucial for overall taste.
Unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a tender texture and beautiful golden color.

For the Boiling Solution

Baking soda – Creates a chewy crust during boiling and contributes to that deep brown color through the Maillard reaction.

For Topping

Large egg, beaten – This gives the pretzels a glossy, golden finish; brush generously before baking.
Granulated sugar (for topping) – Sprinkling this on the warm pretzels crystallizes beautifully, adding a crunchy sweetness.
Ground cinnamon – Infuses warm, spicy flavor that elevates the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar topping.

Begin your baking adventure now with these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Pour 1 cup of warm water into a small mixing bowl. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the water, followed by 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently to combine and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, stirring until evenly distributed. Add the melted butter and the frothy yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Mix it all together until a shaggy dough begins to form. You are now well on your way to creating delicious cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the dough to become smooth and elastic, as this texture is essential for that delightful chewiness in your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as necessary.

Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place. Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a fluffy, pillowy look!

Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into an 18-inch rope. Shape each rope into the traditional pretzel form by creating a U, crossing the ends, and twisting them before folding them back down to meet the bottom of the U.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While shaping the pretzels, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that lovely golden-brown finish on your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels. Make sure your baking tray is ready to go with parchment paper or a light greasing for easy removal later.

Step 7: Prepare the Boiling Solution
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a gentle boil. Carefully stir in 1/4 cup of baking soda, lowering the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil. This step is crucial, as the baking soda bath helps develop that signature chewy crust on your soft pretzels.

Step 8: Boil the Pretzels
Using a slotted spoon, gently lower each shaped pretzel into the boiling water. Boil them for about 30 seconds each, ensuring they don’t stick together. Once boiled, scoop them out and let the excess water drip off before placing them on your prepared baking tray.

Step 9: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the tops of each boiled pretzel with the beaten egg, ensuring an even coating for that beautiful golden glaze while baking. Immediately sprinkle a generous amount of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, allowing the sweetness to stick to the warm pretzel surface.

Step 10: Bake the Pretzels
Carefully place the baking tray in your preheated oven and bake the pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes. They are ready when they appear golden brown and your kitchen is filled with the delightful aroma of cinnamon and sugar—indicative of those homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!

Step 11: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the cinnamon sugar soft pretzels cool on a wire rack. This step is vital to prevent them from becoming soggy. As they cool, the sugar will crystallize, creating a lovely crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough inside.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Customization

There’s no better way to make these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels your own than by adding your unique spin!

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the pretzels after baking for a decadent touch. This adds a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Caramel Dip: Serve with warm caramel sauce for a delightful contrast to the cinnamon sugar. Dunking these soft pretzels will create a heavenly flavor combination.
Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread cinnamon honey butter on your pretzels for an extra layer of charm. The sweetness of the butter harmonizes perfectly with the cinnamon topping.
Add Nuts: Sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts over the pretzels before baking for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. This delightful twist will surprise your family and friends!
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon sugar blend for a sweet and spicy experience. This unique flavor combination will tantalize your taste buds!
Vegan Version: Swap butter for coconut oil and use a plant-based egg substitute for a vegan-friendly treat. You can still enjoy these delicious bites without any animal products.
Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier alternative, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. It adds a hearty flavor and makes the pretzels a bit more nutritious.
Mini Pretzels: Shape smaller versions of the pretzels for bite-sized snacks. They’re perfect for parties and kids will adore them! Pair with sweet dips and watch them vanish.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas and make your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels as fun and flavorful as you desire! Don’t forget to explore other scrumptious recipes like Snickerdoodles Soft Chewy for more delightful baking options.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps and letting it rise in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will slow the fermentation process, ensuring your pretzels are just as fluffy when you bake them. Once you’re ready to finish, simply punch down the dough, divide it, shape the pretzels, and proceed with boiling and baking. For extra convenience, you can also shape and boil the pretzels, then freeze them after boiling. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for glorious results.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Indulging in these warm pretzels is a delightful experience, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate every bite even more!

Creamy Caramel Dip: A rich caramel dip perfectly complements the sweet and spicy pretzels, making every bite an indulgent treat. The smooth texture fuses lush sweetness with the warm pretzel experience.
Hot Chocolate: Sipping on a rich, velvety hot chocolate deepens the cozy experience. The warmth balances the spiced sweetness of the pretzels, creating a comforting duo, perfect for chillier evenings.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds an earthy sweetness that harmonizes with the cinnamon sugar, giving your pretzel an extra layer of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Placing a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside your warm pretzel offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. This pairing transforms a simple snack into a dessert that feels truly gourmet!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of vibrant fresh fruit adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the pretzels. Think juicy strawberries and crisp apples to cleanse the palate and enhance your sweet treat.
Cinnamon Honey Butter Spread: Whip up a quick cinnamon honey butter for spreading. This sweet, spreadable delight enhances the cinnamon flavor while adding a creamy texture that makes every pretzel bite even more indulgent.

With these delightful pairings, your cozy Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels will not only steal the show but bring everyone together for a heartwarming feast!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your water is warm (about 110°F/43°C) but not too hot, as overheating can kill the yeast and hinder the dough rise.
Kneading Matters: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic; if it’s too sticky, add flour gradually to avoid tough pretzels.
Shape with Care: When forming your pretzel, ensure to twist the dough gently to maintain a beautiful shape and avoid tearing.
Boiling is Key: Don’t skip the baking soda bath; it’s essential for achieving that signature chewy crust on your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Timing Counts: Bake just until golden brown, about 12-15 minutes, as slightly underbaked pretzels can have a softer chewy center that’s delightful!

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from becoming stale.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but they may lose a bit of their softness. Just make sure they’re well covered.
Freezer: Freeze pretzels wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for 2-3 months. They’ll be just as delicious when thawed!
Reheating: To refresh, reheat frozen pretzels in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your warm, homemade Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels just like the day you made them!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is fresh and active?
To check if your yeast is fresh and active, mix 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, your yeast is good to go! If not, it’s best to get a new packet.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious when properly sealed. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, although they might lose a bit of softness.

Can I freeze these pretzels? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your pretzels, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This will refresh their texture and flavor just like fresh from the oven!

What if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, the likely culprit is either the yeast or the temperature. Ensure your water is warm (but not hot) and check your yeast’s expiration date. Sometimes, moving the dough to a warmer environment, like an oven with just the light on, can help encourage proper rising. It should roughly double in size in about 1-1.5 hours.

Are these pretzels safe for anyone with gluten allergies?
Unfortunately, classic soft pretzels contain all-purpose flour, which is not safe for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend if desired. Be sure to check your other ingredients, like baking soda and sugar, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

How long can I keep boiled pretzels before baking?
While it’s best to bake them right after boiling for optimal freshness, boiled pretzels can sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you need to wait longer, place them in a covered dish to avoid drying out until you’re ready to bake.