There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of warm, freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, generously coated in a sweet, aromatic cinnamon sugar that just invites you to take a bite. Whether enjoyed as a cozy snack while watching a movie, served at a party, or shared with loved ones during a fun weekend, these pretzels are sure to steal the show!

Why Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

Irresistible Aroma: Imagine your kitchen filled with the sweet and spicy scent of cinnamon mingling with the buttery warmth of baked dough. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
Perfect for Sharing: These pretzels are fantastic for gatherings and are excellent conversation starters. There’s something about pretzel shapes that spark joy and laughter!
Kids’ Favorite: If you have little ones at home, they’ll love getting involved in the shaping process. Plus, who doesn’t love a sweet treat?
Endless Adaptability: Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch up flavors or toppings to suit your mood or occasion.
Homemade Delight: Making soft pretzels at home is a labor of love, and your family will appreciate the time and effort you put into crafting these delicious bites.

Your Shopping List

Now that you’re salivating just at the thought of these pretzels, let’s gather our ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, adding to the symphony of flavors that make this recipe a standout!

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for that perfect rise; it’s the magic ingredient that’ll make your pretzels fluffy.
1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and provides moisture, making the dough easier to work with.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: A pinch of sweetness to nourish the yeast and enhance the overall taste.
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your pretzel dough, giving it structure and chewiness.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavor and intensifies the sweetness from the cinnamon sugar later on.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a lovely buttery flavor to the pretzels.
1/4 cup baking soda: Creates that classic pretzel texture; it’s a crucial step in boiling!
1 large egg, beaten: This is your egg wash, giving the pretzels that beautiful glossy finish.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping that bursts with sweetness.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star of the show; its warm, comforting flavor will wrap you in a delicious embrace.

Crafting Your Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Ready to get your hands floury? Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, soft pretzels ready to enjoy in no time!

Pour 1 cup of warm water into a small bowl.
Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the warm water.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until dissolved.
Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate and become foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture.
Add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the bowl.
Stir everything together with a spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp towel.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches in length.
Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, twisting the ends, and folding them over the center.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium-sized pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil.
Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the boiling water and stir to dissolve.
One at a time, carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water, letting them cook for about 30 seconds each.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels from the water, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the top of each pretzel with the beaten egg to give them a glossy finish.
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the pretzels while they are still wet from the egg wash.
Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Allow the pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

My Favorite Tricks

Making pretzels can seem a bit daunting at first, but with these handy tips, you’ll achieve pretzel perfection!

Knead Like a Pro: Don’t rush the kneading process! This is your chance to develop gluten, resulting in a chewier pretzel.
Perfect Boiling Time: Maintain a gentle boil when you add the pretzels to the water. Too much turbulence can make them lose their shape.
Brush Blessings: When brushing on the egg wash, make sure to cover all exposed dough for that beautiful golden color – it enhances both looks and flavor!
Cinnamon Sugar Joy: Don’t hold back on the cinnamon sugar. Generously sprinkle it while the pretzels are hot, ensuring that it sticks beautifully and adds that delightful sweetness.

Different Versions to Try

While the classic cinnamon sugar pretzel is a beloved favorite, why settle for just one option? Here are some fun variations to bring even more excitement to your baking:

Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the warm pretzels for a decadent twist.
Savory Spin: Replace the cinnamon sugar with grated parmesan, garlic powder, and dried herbs for a savory take.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts into the dough for added texture, or sprinkle them on top before the cinnamon sugar.
Glazed Goodness: After baking, brush on a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet layer.

Bringing It to the Table

When serving these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, presentation is key! Arrange them on a large platter, perhaps garnished with a few sprinkles of extra cinnamon sugar. Consider pairing them with a warm caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping. Imagine everyone gathering around, hands reaching for those soft, glistening pretzels, each bite a comforting hug of flavor.

How Long Does It Last

Your pretzels are best enjoyed fresh, but don’t worry about leftovers; they can still be tasty! To store your soft pretzels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them by wrapping each pretzel individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a zip-top bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes—voilà, just like fresh!

Your Questions Answered

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Certainly! Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity, and there’s no need to proof it in warm water. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients and you’re good to go!
Why do I need to boil the pretzels? Boiling them in a baking soda solution gives pretzels their distinctive chewy texture and deep color. It’s what sets them apart from regular bread!
Can I make the dough in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

In wrapping up, making Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is not just about the end result; it’s a delightful experience filled with warmth, laughter, and a bit of kitchen adventure. I hope you revel in this recipe as much as I have, gathering your loved ones around to share in the joy of these sweet, aromatic treats. Happy baking!