Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you have a fondness for warm, soft treats dusted with a comforting blend of cinnamon and sugar, then you are going to absolutely adore this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe. These pretzels come out perfectly golden and soft on the inside, with a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating that makes every bite a heavenly experience. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy brunch, a family gathering, or just craving a sweet, satisfying snack, this recipe is an absolute winner that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together in this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe to create a mouthwatering treat that balances sweetness with that characteristic soft pretzel chew. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the rich melted butter that adds moisture, to the warm milk that helps activate the yeast and foster the perfect rise.

• 2 cups warm milk: Perfect temperature is key to activating the yeast without killing it.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast: This magical ingredient gets your dough rising and fluffy.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a lovely caramel undertone and feeds the yeast.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Enhances flavor and tenderness in the dough.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more or less as needed): The foundation for your dough, giving structure and chewiness.
• 1/3 cup baking soda: Used in the bath to give the pretzels that classic slightly crisp, shiny crust.
• 3 cups warm water (for the baking soda bath): The perfect temperature to activate the baking soda bath effect.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing): Adds a buttery glaze and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the final coating to perfection.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice to the sugar coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by whisking together your warm milk and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes until foamy—this tells you the yeast is happily alive and kicking, ready to give your dough that beautiful rise.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Stir in the brown sugar, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. These ingredients enrich the dough with buttery flavor, subtle sweetness, and seasoning that will balance your pretzels perfectly.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add in the flour while mixing continuously until a soft dough forms. Turn this dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until the texture is smooth and elastic—the telltale sign it’s ready to rise.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough back in the bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for getting that light, pillowy inside we all crave in soft pretzels.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect browning.

Step 6: Baking Soda Bath

Mix the warm water with baking soda in a shallow bowl. This bath is what gives pretzels their signature crust—don’t skip it! It’s a quick dip that makes a huge difference in texture and color.

Step 7: Shape the Pretzels

Divide your dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into that classic pretzel shape. The shaping might take a little practice, but it’s part of the fun and adds a personal touch!

Step 8: Dip and Arrange

Dip each pretzel in the baking soda bath for a few seconds, then carefully place them on your lined baking sheets. This bath helps develop that beautifully shiny, golden-brown crust during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your pretzels for about 8 to 10 minutes, keeping an eye out for a deep golden-brown color. That’s your cue that they’re perfectly baked, with a chewy, tender inside.

Step 10: Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Right after they come out of the oven, brush each pretzel with melted butter to lock in moisture and add richness. Then generously sprinkle or toss them in your cinnamon and sugar mixture for that warm, sweet finish everyone will swoon over.

Step 11: Serve Warm

Your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and warm—soft, sweet, and irresistibly fragrant right out of the oven.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

While the cinnamon sugar topping is the star, you can elevate your pretzels with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch or a drizzle of vanilla glaze for an extra indulgent finish. Sprinkle a few crushed nuts if you like a bit of crunch alongside the soft texture.

Side Dishes

Pair these soft pretzels with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a bowl of whipped cream, or even a warm caramel dip for a decadent experience. For a cozy snack, a cup of hot cocoa or spiced chai complements the cinnamon notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

These pretzels make a charming addition to brunch platters or dessert boards; arrange them in a basket lined with a colorful linen for a rustic look. You can also serve a smaller size of pretzels on skewers for a fun finger-food twist at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), store them at room temperature in an airtight container to keep your pretzels soft. They’re best eaten within 1 to 2 days for freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pretzels can keep for up to 2 months and still taste fantastic when reheated.

Reheating

To enjoy your pretzels warm again, wrap them in foil and bake in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave will soften them up in a pinch, though you might lose some crispness.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be used and even speeds up the process since it doesn’t need to be proofed. Just mix it directly with your flour and reduce the liquid slightly as needed.

What if I don’t have baking soda for the bath?

The baking soda bath is essential for that traditional pretzel crust, but if you don’t have it, you can skip this step—your pretzels might be softer and lighter in color, but still delicious.

Can I substitute the milk for a dairy-free alternative?

Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk work well for this recipe and won’t compromise the dough’s texture or flavor too much.

How do I shape pretzels if I’m not confident in twisting dough?

If twisting isn’t your thing, you can simply roll the dough into sticks and make pretzel bites or sticks. They are just as tasty and easier to prepare.

Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?

Certainly! You can reduce the cinnamon sugar topping or even omit the sugar for a more savory soft pretzel. Just brush them with melted butter and sprinkle a little coarse salt before baking.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this heartwarming, melt-in-your-mouth Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe in your repertoire, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. It’s the perfect little project that rewards you with cozy, cinnamon-kissed bites of happiness. I promise, once you taste these soft pretzels fresh from the oven, they’ll become a beloved favorite for snack time and beyond.

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