CINNAMON SUGAR SOFT PRETZELS: YOUR NEXT BAKING ADVENTURE

The cinnamon sugar soft pretzels recipe is the key to creating the most comforting aroma of warm cinnamon sugar wafting through your kitchen. This incredibly easy recipe proves you can forget the mall food court, as these soft, pillowy, and warmly spiced pretzels are a homemade dream.

They are fun to make, even more fun to eat, and will make your house smell absolutely heavenly. Cinnamon is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, making that cozy aroma a hint of something good for you.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

Simplicity and Accessibility

This cinnamon sugar soft pretzels recipe is designed to be straightforward, using common pantry staples to create impressive, professional-looking soft pretzels without any complicated steps.

Time Efficiency
The entire process, from mixing the dough to enjoying warm pretzels, takes roughly 90 minutes with very little hands-on effort required.

An Engaging Experience
Kneading the dough and shaping the pretzels is a highlight, making it a perfect and fun hands-on activity to share with children or as a weekend project.

Ultimate Flavor and Texture
The final product delivers an irresistible combination of a soft, chewy, buttery pretzel coated in a sweet, crackly cinnamon sugar shell for a truly blissful treat.

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YOUR CINNAMON SUGAR SOFT PRETZELS INGREDIENTS

Gather these simple ingredients for the most delicious homemade treat.

FOR THE PRETZEL DOUGH:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one standard packet)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp fine salt
• 4 – 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

FOR THE WATER BATH:

• 8 cups water
• ½ cup baking soda

FOR THE CINNAMON SUGAR TOPPING:

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON SUGAR SOFT PRETZELS: STEP BY STEP

Follow these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels recipe steps for perfect, golden-brown soft pretzels every time.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water and brown sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook attachment, gradually add 4 cups of flour on low speed until a dough begins to form. Increase the speed to medium and knead for 4-5 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add the remaining ½ cup of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and grease them lightly. Bring the 8 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot.

Step 5: Shape the Pretzels

Punch the dough down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20-22 inches long. Shape each rope into a pretzel shape.

Step 6: The Baking Soda Bath

Carefully boil each pretzel in the baking soda water for 30 seconds per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, letting the excess water drip off, and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

As soon as the pretzels come out of the oven, brush them generously with the melted butter. While they are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Serve warm!

NUTRITION AND HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

• A Balanced Indulgence: While a delightful treat, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Control Over Ingredients: A significant advantage of these homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels is the use of simple, whole ingredients, allowing you to control everything that goes into the pretzels, unlike store-bought versions.
• Customizable for Lighter Options: The cinnamon sugar soft pretzels is adaptable; for a slightly lighter version, you can easily reduce the amount of butter used to brush the pretzels before applying the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Nourishment Beyond Nutrition: The process of baking from scratch and the act of sharing a homemade treat provide significant joy and emotional nourishment, which is a valuable aspect of well-being.
• An Informed, Occasional Enjoyment: Acknowledging information from sources like Healthline, which often discusses moderating sugar intake, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are perfectly positioned as a conscious and occasional indulgence rather than an everyday food.

HOW TO SERVE YOUR PRETZELS

Serving and Consumption:

• Optimal Serving State: For the ultimate experience, these pretzels must be served warm and fresh from the oven.
• Peak Coating Texture: The signature cinnamon sugar coating is at its absolute best when still slightly crackly from the oven’s residual heat.
• Classic Pairing: They are a perfect standalone treat, exceptionally complemented by a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
• Indulgent Enhancement: For an extra-decadent option, serve them with a side of vanilla icing or cream cheese frosting for dipping.

Versatility and Occasions:

Ideal Settings: They are perfectly suited for service as a special weekend breakfast treat, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert at events like a game-day party.

Recipe Adaptability: This cinnamon sugar soft pretzels recipe is highly versatile and suits numerous occasions.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVERS

• Primary Recommendation: For the optimal sensory experience, these pretzels are highly recommended to be enjoyed fresh.
• Storage Method: Leftovers must be allowed to cool completely before being stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Shelf Life: Properly stored pretzels will remain fresh for up to 2 days.
• Texture Note: It is important to note that the cinnamon sugar coating will gradually soften and lose its crackly texture during storage.
• Reheating Instructions: To restore a crisp texture, reheat the pretzels in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 8 minutes.

TIPS AND NOTES FOR SUCCESS

Become a pretzel pro with these helpful tips and creative ideas.

The Key to the Perfect Texture

The baking soda bath is non-negotiable! This is what gives soft pretzels their signature chewy texture and distinctive “pretzel” flavor. Do not skip it.

Delicious Variations

• Pretzel Bites: Instead of shaping into full pretzels, cut the dough ropes into 1-inch pieces before boiling. Reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes.
• Salty-Sweet: Sprinkle with a little flaky sea salt after applying the cinnamon sugar for a fantastic flavor contrast.
• Apple Cider Dip: Serve with a dip made from reduced apple cider and cream cheese.

Important Notes

Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If your water is too hot, it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate. 110°F is perfect; it should feel warm but not hot to the touch.

CINNAMON SUGAR SOFT PRETZELS FAQS

YOUR NEW FAVORITE TREAT

This cinnamon sugar soft pretzels recipe is your ticket to creating unforgettable homemade treats. The process is fun, the results are spectacular, and the taste is pure, cozy happiness. So, tie on your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake a batch of pure joy. You’ve got this!