Name: Indulgent Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (substitute with instant yeast for a no-activation option); 1 cup Warm Water (aim for a temperature that feels comfortably warm); 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (feeds the yeast); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (provides structure); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted) (adds richness); 2 tablespoons Baking Soda (creates chewy crust); 1 Large Egg (beaten) (provides glossy finish); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (for topping) (delivers sweet crunch); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (infuses warm flavor)

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There’s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels wafting through your home—an inviting scent that lingers in the air and brings a smile to everyone who walks through the door. The moment you pull these golden-brown treats out of the oven, with their fluffy insides and slightly crispy exteriors, you’ll know you’ve created something special. Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night, a weekend treat, or just craving a warm snack, these pretzels are the ultimate comfort food.

What makes them even better? These homemade delights are beginner-friendly, allowing anyone to dive into the world of baking without a second thought. Imagine biting into a soft pretzel, perfectly coated in sweet cinnamon and sugar, like a warm hug for your taste buds. They’re not just quick to make; they’re a versatile canvas for indulgent toppings or dips that you can customize to match your mood. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s turn your kitchen into a delightful bakery—these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are just waiting to be enjoyed!

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Irresistible aroma: The scent of baking pretzels fills your home with warmth and happiness.
Beginner-friendly: No baking expertise required; the process is simple and enjoyable!
Comforting treat: Fluffy on the inside with a delightful sweet crunch on the outside.
Perfect for sharing: These pretzels make any gathering feel special or can simply be a cozy self-indulgence.
Versatile enjoyment: Pair them with toppings or dips, such as warm caramel or cinnamon honey butter, for extra delight. Enjoy making these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels and elevate your homemade snack game!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients

For the Dough

Active Dry Yeast – Causes the dough to rise for that perfect, soft texture; substitute with instant yeast for a no-activation option.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast; aim for a temperature that feels comfortably warm, not hot.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast, promoting fermentation for tender pretzels.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure and chewiness to your pretzels.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness for a delightful flavor and promotes a golden, tender crust.

For the Boiling Bath

Baking Soda – Essential for creating that signature chewy outer crust and helps achieve a beautiful brown color.

For the Topping

Large Egg (beaten) – Provides a glossy, appetizing finish when brushed on top before baking.
Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Delivers a sweet crunch that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses a warm, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sugar to create an irresistible topping.

Enjoy making these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels and delight your family and friends with this sweet, homemade treat!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Activate the Yeast: Pour warm water into a bowl; sprinkle active dry yeast over it and stir in granulated sugar. Let it activate for 5-10 minutes until foamy, signaling it’s ready to work its magic!
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Then, add the yeast mixture along with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until the dough begins to form, embracing the warmth and sweetness of your concoction.
Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll love feeling the dough come together like a soft hug, perfect for transforming into pretzels!
Let It Rise: Place the dough in a warm area, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size, transforming into a fluffy delight.
Shape the Pretzels: After rising, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces; roll each piece into ropes and shape them into pretzels. Imagine crafting little masterpieces!
Prepare the Boiling Bath: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a pot of water to a boil, adding baking soda to create that perfect chewy crust.
Boil the Pretzels: Carefully boil each pretzel for 30 seconds; remove with a slotted spoon and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Apply the Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg for a glossy finish, then generously sprinkle them with the cinnamon sugar mix, making them irresistible.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before diving into your warm, soft pretzels!

Optional: Serve warm with a side of cinnamon honey butter for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it after kneading. Just cover it well to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can shape the pretzels and refrigerate them overnight; simply place them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and they’ll be ready for boiling and baking the next day. When you’re ready to serve, boil and bake them straight from the fridge for just as delicious results. This prep-ahead approach ensures you have homemade treats ready to go whenever cravings strike!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?

Gather your family for a delightful treat, and elevate your snack game with these sweet, warm bites.

Creamy Cheese Dip: The rich, creamy texture of cheese dip beautifully contrasts the sweet cinnamon, making each bite a savory surprise.
Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzling your pretzels with warm caramel adds an indulgent, gooey element that satisfies the sweet tooth. It’s hard to beat this classic pairing!
Cinnamon Honey Butter: A delightful spread that echoes the pretzels’ flavors, enhancing the sweet experience while adding a creamy touch. Perfect for dipping!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream creates a creamy balance against the warm pretzels. Enjoy a delightful contrast as ice cream melts atop the pretzel.
Hot Chocolate: Whether for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, a rich cup of hot chocolate ties together the sweetness of pretzels with a comforting beverage.
Apple Slices with Caramel Drizzle: Crisp apple slices bring a refreshing crunch alongside a sweet caramel drizzle, creating a lovely contrast to soft pretzels for a balanced snack experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm, spiced flavors enhance the cinnamon notes of the pretzels, creating a comforting pairing that feels like a warm hug in a cup!
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a thick, warm chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence to your soft pretzels, taking them over the top.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Right Water Temperature: Warm water should feel like a gentle hug, activating the yeast without overheating it. If it’s too hot, you risk killing the yeast!
Knead Well: Kneading for 5-7 minutes develops gluten, ensuring a chewy texture. Don’t rush this step; a smooth dough leads to better pretzels.
Careful Boiling: Use a slotted spoon to prevent distortion when boiling the pretzels. This helps maintain their beautiful shapes while achieving that signature chewy crust!
Add Egg Wash: Brushing your pretzels with a beaten egg before baking promotes a shiny, attractive finish. It makes these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels look just as good as they taste!
Watch Baking Time: Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the pretzels. They should be golden brown but not too dark; a little patience goes a long way!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Variations

Get ready to elevate your pretzel game with some delightful twists that will make your taste buds dance!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring your pretzels remain equally fluffy and delicious.
Cheesy Sprinkle: Add grated cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, to the dough for a savory twist—perfect for those cheese lovers! Imagine that melty goodness in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne or chili powder into the dough for a spicy surprise that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. A little heat can elevate your snack experience.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm pretzels post-baking for an indulgent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth like never before. Chocolate and cinnamon—two perfect partners!
Honey-Sugar Glaze: Replace granulated sugar with honey in the topping for a unique, sticky sweetness that adds a different dimension to your pretzels.
Fruit Zest: Enhance the cinnamon sugar topping with a dash of fresh fruit zest like orange or lemon for a citrusy twist that brightens the flavor profile. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy your pretzel!
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts into the dough, like pecans or almonds, before shaping into pretzels for added texture and a delightful crunch.
Cinnamon Raisin: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries into the dough for a fruity touch, marrying the classic cinnamon flavor with a burst of sweetness.

With these variations, you can let your creativity run wild and make every batch unique! Enjoy your baking adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Keep your freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their warmth and texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap pretzels individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Thawing: To enjoy again, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, ensure your active dry yeast is fresh—check the expiration date and look for a lively, bubbly reaction when combined with warm water. Your granulated sugar should be fine, and when selecting all-purpose flour, aim for a brand that’s unbleached to achieve that classic chewy texture. The unsalted butter should be fresh as well, as it contributes rich flavor to your pretzels.

How should I store my pretzels for maximum freshness?
Very! Once your pretzels cool down, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This locks in their soft and fluffy texture. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just remember to reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to bring back that freshly baked warmth.

Can I freeze my Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each pretzel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them deliciously soft and chewy!

What if my dough doesn’t rise as expected?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise properly, it may be due to inactive yeast. This can happen if the water temperature was too hot or too cold. Always aim for warm water, feeling comfortably warm to the touch. If you find your dough isn’t rising, don’t be discouraged—try moving it to a warmer location, or consider adding fresh yeast to a new batch if needed.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these pretzels?
Of course! If you’re concerned about allergies: ensure your pretzels are nut-free by using basic ingredients. If you have a gluten sensitivity, you could try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; just be aware that the texture may slightly differ. As for pets, it’s best not to share these sweet treats with dogs due to high sugar and yeast content. Always have them enjoy their own special pet treats!

How can I enhance the flavor of my pretzels?
Absolutely! One delightful twist is to experiment with flavored sugars for the topping, such as vanilla or nutmeg, which can elevate your pretzel experience. Additionally, you can serve them with indulgent dips like warm caramel, melted chocolate, or cinnamon honey butter for a truly unforgettable treat! Enjoy making these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels and let your creativity shine!