With the aroma of fresh-baked goodness wafting through the kitchen, I found myself caught in a delightful triumph—Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels have stolen my heart! This comforting homemade treat is not only a fun project for beginner bakers but is also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Each perfectly shaped pretzel, with its buttery, pillowy texture, is coated in a luscious mix of cinnamon and sugar that adds a sweet, crunchy finish. Not only are these pretzels wonderfully nostalgic, reminiscent of carnival treats, but they are also freezer-friendly, allowing you to savor the warmth of homemade snacks anytime. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a joyful ride? Let’s get baking!
Why Should You Make These Pretzels?
Satisfying, nothing beats the warm, buttery aroma of homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels wafting through your kitchen. Quick and easy, even beginner bakers can whip these up with confidence—no fancy skills required! Versatile, try them with a drizzle of chocolate or alongside a warm caramel dip for a decadent twist. Freezer-friendly, you can prepare a batch and enjoy them fresh whenever cravings strike! Nostalgic, these pretzels will remind you of fun-filled carnival days, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients
For the Dough
• Active dry yeast – This is crucial for achieving that soft, chewy texture in your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
• Warm water – Use warm water to activate the yeast, ensuring it’s not too hot to prevent killing it.
• Granulated sugar – Not only sweetens the dough, but also aids yeast activation for a good rise.
• All-purpose flour – Provides the structure and chewiness essential for the perfect pretzel.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the pretzels.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a lovely golden brown color when baked.
For Boiling
• Baking soda – This is key in creating that classic chewy crust in your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
For the Topping
• Large egg (beaten) – Gives the pretzels a beautiful, glossy finish when brushed on before baking.
• Granulated sugar (for topping) – Crystallizes on warm pretzels for a delightful sweet crunch.
• Ground cinnamon – Infuses warm spice flavor, perfectly complementing the sugar in your pretzels.
Indulge in the deliciousness of these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels and keep the comfort food vibes flowing!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir in 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until dissolved. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in your delicious cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the foamy yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms, then transition into kneading for the next step.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Flour your work surface lightly and turn out the dough. Knead it vigorously for about 5-7 minutes, working the dough until it is smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back lightly when poked. This is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, turning it once to coat lightly. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rising time is vital to develop the airy, pillowy texture characteristic of delightful soft pretzels.
Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces, rolling each piece into an 18-inch rope. Twist the ropes into a classic pretzel shape, ensuring that the ends are tightly secured. This step gives your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels their iconic appearance and texture.
Step 6: Boil the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and stir in 1/4 cup of baking soda. Carefully drop one pretzel at a time into the boiling water, allowing each to boil for 30 seconds. This bath will enhance the chewiness and dark golden color of your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Step 7: Prep for Baking
After boiling, remove each pretzel and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a beautiful glossy finish. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over each pretzel before baking.
Step 8: Bake the Pretzels
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they reach that perfect color without burning.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help them maintain their deliciously soft texture. Serve them warm, perhaps with a side of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping, and enjoy your homemade delights!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy weeknights and can indeed be made ahead to save time! You can prepare the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even easier prep, shape the pretzels and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined sheet for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before boiling and baking. To maintain that soft, chewy texture, avoid freezing them after boiling; this will alter their quality. When ready to bake, simply boil, brush with the egg wash, and sprinkle on the cinnamon-sugar mixture for perfect, warm cinnamon sugar soft pretzels whenever cravings strike!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations
Feel free to personalize your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels and make them even more delightful for your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter for a rich flavor without the dairy.
- Cinnamon Roll Twist: Roll the dough out and sprinkle with butter, brown sugar, and additional cinnamon before shaping into pretzels for a sweet twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the sweetness by drizzling melted chocolate over the warm pretzels after baking; it’s an indulgent treat!
- Savory Option: Omit the sugar topping and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and rosemary for a delicious savory version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these pretzels suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar mix for a warm, spicy contrast to the sweetness.
- Flavor Infusions: Experiment with different extracts like almond or vanilla in the dough to add layers of flavor that complement the cinnamon.
- Fruit Add-ins: Mix in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries to the dough for a delightful chew and natural sweetness, reminiscent of a cinnamon roll.
For an exciting dip to pair with your pretzels, consider making some warm chocolate sauce or even a cinnamon honey butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, try side treats inspired by delicious baked goods like our Harvest Marble Sugar. Enjoy the process of creating your unique batch of cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Imagine sitting back with your loved ones, warm cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in hand, surrounded by flavors that complement this sweet treat beautifully.
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Creamy Spinach Dip: This rich, savory dip balances the sweetness of the pretzels, offering a delightful contrast that excites the palate.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate over your pretzels takes indulgence to another level, creating a sweet, gooey experience everyone will adore.
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Caramel Sauce: The buttery, sweet undertones of caramel enhance the cinnamon flavor, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
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Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread this velvety butter over warm pretzels for a luxurious treat that combines spice and sweetness perfectly.
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Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the cinnamon in your pretzels and creates a cozy atmosphere for any gathering.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of assorted fruits adds a burst of freshness and balances the sweetness of the pretzels, making for a well-rounded snack.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Sip on a warm drink alongside your soft pretzels for an extra comforting experience, perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings.
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Ice Cream: Top your warm pretzels with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream; it’s a delightful way to cool down the sweetness while adding creamy richness.
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store the pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Fridge: If needed, cinnamon sugar soft pretzels can be kept in the fridge for about 4-5 days. Be sure to reheat them in the oven to restore their delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap pretzels tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven to bring back their warmth and chewiness.
Reheating: To regain that fresh-baked flavor, heat pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
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Water Temperature: Always use warm water (around 110°F) when activating the yeast; too hot will kill it, affecting rise and texture.
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Boiling Bath Importance: Don’t skip the baking soda bath; it creates that characteristic chewy crust and rich golden color that defines perfect cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
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Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s elastic and smooth. This develops gluten, essential for achieving the soft, chewy texture you desire.
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Egg Wash Finish: Brush on a beaten egg before baking for that shiny, professional finish that makes your pretzels visually appealing.
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Cooling Method: Allow the pretzels to cool on a wire rack after baking. This keeps their texture intact and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my pretzels?
Absolutely! For the best cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and not expired—this guarantees a good rise. When choosing flour, all-purpose flour is ideal for the structure of the dough. Opt for granulated sugar that’s fine and free of clumps to mix evenly. For the warm water, the perfect temperature is around 110°F—this activates the yeast without killing it.
What is the best way to store leftover pretzels?
Very! Store your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you won’t finish them in that timeframe, refrigerate them; they’ll last about 4-5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to restore their delightful texture, which softens when chilled.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
Of course! To freeze, wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you crave that homemade goodness, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes, and they’ll be as good as fresh!
What should I do if my pretzels don’t rise properly?
Don’t worry! If your pretzels don’t rise as expected, first check that your yeast was activated properly—look for a foamy layer after mixing it with warm water and sugar. If not frothy, it might be dead. Ensure you knead the dough enough for gluten development, and remember, it’s essential to place the dough in a warm, draft-free environment for rising.
Are these pretzels safe for my pet or people with allergies?
It’s wise to be cautious! The cinnamon sugar soft pretzels contain ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast, which are okay for most people but should be avoided for pets like dogs due to possible yeast toxicity. Also, if you or someone has allergies to gluten or dairy products, you can try gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter alternatives, but that will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water with active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Flour your work surface and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. It should spring back slightly when poked.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pretzels: Punch down the dough, divide into 8 pieces, and roll each into an 18-inch rope, twisting into a pretzel shape.
- Boil the Pretzels: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Boil water with baking soda, then boil each pretzel for 30 seconds.
- Prep for Baking: Place boiled pretzels on a parchment-lined sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
- Bake the Pretzels: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool and Serve: Allow pretzels to cool on a wire rack before serving warm.
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