There’s something incredibly comforting about walking into a kitchen filled with the sweet, warm aroma of baking cinnamon sugar soft pretzels. As the scent wafts through the air, it brings back memories of cozy gatherings and delightful afternoons spent indulging in homemade treats. I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy day when I was craving something warm and delicious, and I can assure you-it's a winner!
These soft pretzels are not just a treat; they're an experience! With their buttery texture and the perfect dusting of cinnamon and sugar, each bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re preparing them for a family movie night, a bake sale, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these pretzels are destined to please. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy that homemade goodness anytime you like. Let's dive into the delightful world of cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!
Why love Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
Irresistible aroma: Imagine your kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of these soft pretzels baking; it's pure bliss!
Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a party or family night, they're sure to bring smiles and joy.
Versatility: Enjoy them warm as-is, or dip them in caramel or chocolate for an extra treat.
Bake-ahead option: Prepare in advance and just reheat them for warm, fresh enjoyment anytime!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Ingredients
For the Dough
- Active Dry Yeast - Essential for the dough’s rise, creating the soft, chewy texture. Substitution: Instant yeast can be used without activation.
- Warm Water - Activates the yeast to bloom, ensuring the dough rises well. Note: Water should be warm, not hot.
- Granulated Sugar - Adds sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast. Note: Also used in the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- All-Purpose Flour - Provides structure and chewiness to the pretzels. No substitutions noted.
- Salt - Enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Essential for overall taste.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) - Adds richness and color while softening the dough. Make sure to use melted for incorporation.
For the Boiling Solution
- Baking Soda - Used in the boiling water bath to create a chewy, dark exterior. Critical for the texture of the pretzels.
For the Topping
- Large Egg (beaten) - For egg wash, providing a glossy finish to the pretzels. Important for appearance.
- Granulated Sugar (for topping) - Creates the sweet crunch on the baked pretzels. Crystallizes when baked.
- Ground Cinnamon - Adds warm spiciness to complement the sugar topping. Integral for flavor.
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are sure to be a delightful addition to your recipe collection!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, signaling the yeast is active.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Knead Dough: Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Then, let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape Pretzels: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope and shape them into pretzels by twisting and folding.
Prepare the Boil: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, boil 10 cups of water and dissolve 1/4 cup of baking soda in it. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds to achieve that classic chewy texture.
Bake Pretzels: Place the boiled pretzels on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush them with the beaten egg wash and generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Finish Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before indulging.
Optional: Serve them warm with a side of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: While not necessary, if you prefer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, they may lose some of their delightful softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pretzels in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat the cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, restoring their warmth and softness.
Variations & Substitutions for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Invite your inner chef to explore delightful twists on this beloved snack, enhancing flavors and textures to suit any craving!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with coconut oil for a similar richness without dairy.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the dough for an unexpected kick of warmth.
- Whole Wheat: Mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Sweet Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough for a sweet surprise.
- Flavored Sugars: Use vanilla sugar or sprinkle with flavored sugars like maple or pumpkin spice instead of plain cinnamon.
- Savory Twist: Skip the sugar topping and sprinkle with coarse sea salt and herbs for a savory version.
- Stuffed Pretzels: Fill with cream cheese or your favorite cheese before shaping for an indulgent treat.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suited for baking to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
These variations elevate your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels experience, allowing creativity while keeping the essence of beloved homemade treats!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Yeast Activation: Ensure the water for yeast is warm (110°F to 115°F) but not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast, preventing dough from rising.
Dough Consistency: The dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour while kneading.
Boiling Is Key: Don't skip the boiling step! Boiling the pretzels in water mixed with baking soda is essential for achieving that classic chewy exterior.
Egg Wash Importance: Brush the pretzels with the egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden finish. It adds color and keeps the cinnamon sugar topping intact.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their soft texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape it into pretzels up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To ensure they maintain their fluffy texture, allow the pretzels to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before boiling. Once boiled and baked, these pretzels can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For an even longer option, freeze the baked pretzels for 2-3 months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to refresh their warmth and deliciousness!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
If you’re planning to indulge in the warm, sugary goodness of soft pretzels, consider enhancing your experience with delightful pairings!
Creamy Dips: Serve with warm caramel or chocolate sauce to elevate each bite into a sweet adventure. The contrasting flavors create a symphony on your palate.
Fruit Salads: A refreshing fruit salad adds a vibrant contrast. Try a mix of berries, melons, and a splash of citrus dressing for balance.
Hot Cocoa: A cozy mug of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider will enhance the warmth of your pretzels. These drinks perfectly complement the sweet cinnamon sugar.
Savory Cheese: Pair with a tangy cheese dip, such as cheddar or goat cheese, for an unexpected twist. The saltiness of the cheese balances the sweetness beautifully.
Ice Cream: Serve warm pretzels with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The melting ice cream on warm pretzels creates a decadently sweet treat.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of nutty trail mix offers crunch and texture that contrasts with the soft, chewy pretzels. It’s a perfect snack mix to serve alongside.
Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread this delicious butter on warm pretzels for an even sweeter experience. It enhances the cinnamon flavor already present in the soft pretzels.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
What type of yeast should I use for the dough?
You can use active dry yeast, which is essential for creating the soft and chewy texture of the pretzels. If you’re in a pinch, instant yeast can work, and it doesn't require activation-just mix it directly with the dry ingredients!
How should I store leftover pretzels?
Store your leftover cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their delightful softness. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 3 days, though they may become a bit less tender.
Can I freeze the pretzels for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their warm, soft goodness.
What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it might be because the yeast was not activated correctly or the water was too hot and killed the yeast. Check the water temperature, and ensure it is warm (110°F to 115°F). If your yeast mixture doesn’t foam after 5-10 minutes, it could be stale or expired, and you may need to try again with fresh yeast.
Are cinnamon sugar soft pretzels safe for people with food allergies?
Since these pretzels contain common allergens like wheat (in the flour) and eggs (in the egg wash), those with gluten or egg allergies should avoid this recipe. For a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; however, results may vary. Always check labels on products like baking soda and butter for any other allergens.
Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with 2 1/4 teaspoons of yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, signaling the yeast is active.
- In a large bowl, mix 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Then, let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope and shape them into pretzels by twisting and folding.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, boil 10 cups of water and dissolve 1/4 cup of baking soda in it. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds to achieve that classic chewy texture.
- Place the boiled pretzels on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush them with the beaten egg wash and generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before indulging.
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