Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that walks the perfect line between pillowy soft and deliciously sweet, look no further than these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels. Each bite brings together the buttery, chewy texture you love in a classic pretzel, but with a blanket of fragrant cinnamon sugar that makes them downright irresistible. Ideal for sharing (or not!), these are the kind of warm-from-the-oven goodies you’ll want to make again and again—whether it’s for a family game night, cozy afternoon snack, or when you’re simply in the mood to indulge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is how such simple ingredients can create something unbelievably delightful. Each component plays a starring role—bringing out tenderness, fluff, and flavor that melts in your mouth.

• Active dry yeast: The secret to that signature rise and soft, airy crumb—make sure it’s fresh for best results!
• Warm water: Just the right temperature wakes up your yeast and starts the magic.
• Granulated sugar: A spoonful sweetens the dough and another transforms the pretzels into a cinnamony treat.
• All-purpose flour: The structural backbone—don’t skimp, and always spoon and level for accurate measuring.
• Salt: Brings balance and a bit of contrast to the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for richness and flavor—plus it keeps the texture super tender.
• Baking soda: Gives the pretzels their gorgeous chew and color after a quick bath.
• Egg: The glossy finish that helps your cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly.
• Ground cinnamon: Warm, aromatic, and the defining flavor—don’t be shy!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by pouring one cup of warm water into a small bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water, followed by a tablespoon of sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let the mixture sit for five to ten minutes, until it’s frothy and smells yeasty—this is when you know your yeast is alive and ready!

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour and salt. Once your yeast mixture has bloomed, pour it into the flour mixture along with the melted unsalted butter. With a sturdy spoon or spatula, mix until a shaggy dough forms. Get in there with your hands if you need to!

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for five to seven minutes. You’re aiming for a supple, elastic dough that springs back when lightly pressed. This step builds gluten, ensuring these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels have the perfect texture.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Transfer your dough to a clean, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a cozy, draft-free spot for one to one and a half hours, until it’s doubled in size. Don’t rush—this time gives you super soft results.

Step 5: Shape Your Pretzels

Punch the risen dough down gently to release air, then divide it into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches. Shape each rope into a pretzel by creating a “U,” twisting the ends together, and folding them over to the base. Place shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Boil for Signature Pretzel Texture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot and carefully add the baking soda. One by one, slip pretzels into the bubbling bath for about 30 seconds each, then scoop them out with a slotted spoon back onto your baking sheet. This step is what gives Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels that lovely bite.

Step 7: Add the Gloss and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush each boiled pretzel generously with beaten egg for shine. In a separate bowl, mix together your sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the blend with abandon over the egg-washed pretzels—get those nooks and crannies!

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your pretzels into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until they turn golden brown and smell like heaven. Let them cool briefly on a wire rack so they’re soft, warm, and ready to devour.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Garnishes

For that extra finishing flourish, I love brushing the just-baked pretzels with a tad more melted butter and dusting over an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. A drizzle of vanilla glaze or a swirl of cream cheese icing also transforms them into a showstopper dessert.

Side Dishes

These are delicious all on their own, but you can serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with fresh fruit, a little bowl of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping, or alongside a frosty glass of milk or coffee. They even make a dreamy brunch supported by fruit salads and warm beverages.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack pretzels on a rustic board or in a colorful bread basket lined with a tea towel. For parties, pile them in a tiered dessert stand, or add pretzel sticks to skewers for a fun, portable snack. Mini pretzel bites made from the same dough are especially cute for sharing—or gifting in parchment-wrapped bundles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are undeniably best fresh, but you can keep leftovers soft by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Add a piece of parchment between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing

To freeze, allow cooled pretzels to set on a wire rack, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months—just make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

If you’ve stored or frozen your pretzels, bring them back to life by warming them in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes. For an instant treat, a quick zap in the microwave for about 15 seconds also works—add a dab of butter and fresh cinnamon sugar if you want to rekindle all that fresh-baked magic.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shape and boil the pretzels, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. That way, you can pop them in the oven just before serving for that coveted warm, fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can substitute instant yeast at the same amount—just skip the blooming step. Mix it directly into your flour and salt, and proceed as the recipe describes.

What’s the best way to get an even cinnamon sugar coating?

Brush on the egg wash while the pretzels are still a bit warm and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar right after—this helps every curve and twist hold on to that delicious topping.

Can I make bite-sized Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with this recipe?

Definitely! Simply divide the dough into more pieces (16 or even 24), roll into shorter ropes, and shape as small pretzel knots or nuggets for the perfect snackable size—just reduce the baking time a touch.

Are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels vegan-friendly?

With a few simple swaps (plant-based butter, a flaxseed egg for brushing), these pretzels can absolutely be made vegan while keeping all their charm and softness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something joyful and nostalgic about baking a batch of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels at home. The enticing smell, the warmth as you tear into a fluffy twist, and the sweet crunch of cinnamon sugar are hard to resist. If you give these a try, I promise they’ll quickly become a favorite treat in your home—happy baking!

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