Craving a warm, sweet treat? Look no further than my Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels! These fluffy, homemade snacks are easy to make and will impress everyone. With just a few key ingredients like yeast, flour, and, of course, cinnamon sugar, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready to dive into deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Active dry yeast is key for fluffy pretzels. It helps the dough rise. Warm water activates the yeast. Sugar feeds the yeast and helps it work faster. All-purpose flour gives structure. Sea salt adds flavor, making each bite tasty.
Added Ingredients for Coating
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter brings richness. Baking soda creates a nice crust on the pretzels. Beaten egg helps the pretzels brown and shine. The cinnamon and sugar mix is sweet and comforting. It’s the best part of the treat!
Optional Toppings
- Coarse sea salt for finishing
- Suggestions for dips or additional toppings
Coarse sea salt enhances the flavor. It balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar. You can serve pretzels with dips like cheese sauce or mustard. Consider chocolate sauce for a sweet twist. These options make your snack even more fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
To start, grab a large bowl. Mix 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar in 1 cup of warm water, about 110°F. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes until it looks frothy. This means the yeast is active and ready. Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well. Gradually add 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour until the dough pulls away from the bowl.
Now, it’s time to knead! Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes. It should feel smooth and elastic. Once done, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
Rising the Dough
To know when your dough is ready, look for it to double in size. This is key for the perfect pretzel. If your dough feels puffy and soft, it’s ready for the next step. Don’t rush this part. Let nature do its work.
Shaping and Boiling the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 22 inches long. Shape the rope into a pretzel by making a loop and twisting the ends.
Boiling is crucial! In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a gentle boil. Add ¼ cup of baking soda. Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, brush each pretzel with a beaten egg. This gives them a beautiful glaze. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for that classic pretzel flavor. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Once they come out of the oven, coat each pretzel in a mix of ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Do this while they are warm for the best flavor. They will be delicious!Enjoy your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
When making dough, avoid using cold water. It can slow down the yeast. Always use warm water, around 110°F. This helps the yeast activate faster.
Kneading is key. If your dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little warm water. You want a soft and smooth dough.
Let the dough rise in a warm spot. Cover it with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out. Look for it to double in size. This usually takes about an hour.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
To coat the pretzels evenly, mix the cinnamon and sugar well. As soon as the pretzels come out of the oven, dip them in the cinnamon sugar. Coating while warm helps the sugar stick better.
Make sure to turn the pretzels to coat all sides. This gives every bite a sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun presentation, serve the pretzels on a large platter. Place them in a circle with a small bowl of icing or chocolate sauce in the middle.
You can also add a side of warm caramel sauce or cream cheese dip. This makes for a great snack or dessert. Enjoy your homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels with friends and family!

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the flavor of your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels. One fun option is to make chocolate cinnamon pretzels. To do this, add cocoa powder to your dough. It gives a rich, chocolaty taste that pairs well with the cinnamon sugar coating. You can even sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for an extra treat.
Another great choice is pumpkin spice pretzels for autumn. Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into your dough. This twist brings the warm flavors of fall to your snack. It’s perfect for cozy evenings with friends and family.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum to help with texture. Your pretzels will still turn out soft and tasty.
For vegan adaptations, swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for brushing. This way, everyone can enjoy these pretzels.
Unique Shapes and Sizes
Try different shapes for your pretzels to keep things exciting. Instead of the classic pretzel shape, you could make pretzel knots or even pretzel sticks. This adds fun and variety to your snack table.
Mini pretzel bites are another great option. They are perfect for parties or movie nights. Kids love them, and you can easily serve them with dips like cheese sauce or mustard. They are just as delicious as the traditional pretzel forms.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Pretzels
To keep your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels soft, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. Place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also use a large plastic container with a tight lid for storage. Remember to let the pretzels cool before you store them.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze uncooked pretzels, shape them and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until hard, then transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked pretzels, let them cool first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps them fresh longer.
When you are ready to enjoy your frozen pretzels, you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzels on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This makes them warm and soft again.
Shelf Life
Cinnamon sugar soft pretzels can be stored at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you store them in the fridge, they last up to a week. Always check for signs of spoilage. If they smell bad or have mold, toss them out. Enjoy these tasty treats fresh for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
To reheat your pretzels, use the oven. First, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzels on a baking sheet. Add a splash of water to keep them soft. Cover with foil to avoid burning. Bake for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method warms them well and keeps them soft.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Instant yeast works faster than active dry yeast. You do not need to proof it in water. Just mix it with the dry ingredients. You might need to reduce the liquid by a little. This change helps keep the dough the right texture.
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast. It may be old or inactive. Ensure your water is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast. If you see no bubbles, start again with fresh yeast. You can also let the dough rise in a warmer place.
How do I make the pretzels crispy on the outside?
To get crispy pretzels, boil them in a baking soda bath before baking. This step adds a nice crust. Use a large pot with water and ¼ cup of baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds on each side. After that, brush them with egg wash before baking.
Can I customize the sugar coating?
Absolutely! You can add different flavors to the sugar. Try adding vanilla or nutmeg for a twist. You can also use brown sugar instead of white. Mix in some ground ginger or cardamom for a unique taste. Get creative with spices to make your pretzels special.
You now know how to make delicious soft pretzels from scratch. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can try different flavors and even adapt for dietary needs. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them soft and tasty. Pretzels are versatile, so get creative with toppings and shapes. Enjoy your baking journey, and share your pretzel creations with friends! Making pretzels can be fun and rewarding. Give it a try and savor your homemade treats!


