Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels are a sweet, soft, and chewy snack coated in a luscious cinnamon-sugar mixture. Inspired by classic soft pretzels, this homemade version combines the comforting texture of freshly baked dough with the warm, sweet flavor of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for snack time, dessert, or even as a festive treat, these pretzels are irresistible with every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a fun, aromatic, and delicious treat. The soft, slightly chewy pretzel pairs perfectly with the sweet, crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating. Unlike store-bought versions, these are fresh from the oven and bursting with flavor, while being customizable with toppings like icing, chocolate drizzle, or nuts.

Making pretzels from scratch is also a rewarding and playful experience—it fills the kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon sugar that’s hard to resist.

---

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s simple to make, fun to shape, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or a cozy treat at home, these cinnamon sugar pretzels offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

The golden-brown exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar and the soft, fluffy interior make them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Plus, they’re a versatile snack that pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
• Servings: 8 pretzels
• Calories: ~220 kcal per pretzel
• Cuisine: American / Snack
• Course: Snack / Dessert

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For Boiling:

• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup baking soda

For Topping:

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

Simple Cooking Directions

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix in flour, salt, and melted butter to form a dough. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
3. Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Divide dough into 8 portions and shape into pretzels.
6. Boil water and baking soda in a large pot. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then transfer to the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape Pretzels: Punch down dough and divide into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a pretzel.
7. Boil Pretzels: In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then transfer to prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
9. Add Topping: Brush warm pretzels with melted butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle generously over each pretzel.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before enjoying warm.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a snack or dessert.
• Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or milk.
• Add a drizzle of icing or chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Include on a brunch or snack platter for parties.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure water is warm but not hot for yeast activation.
• Knead dough well to develop gluten for soft pretzels.
• Boiling in baking soda water is essential for authentic pretzel texture and flavor.
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar immediately after baking while pretzels are warm so it sticks well.

Variations

• Chocolate Cinnamon Pretzels: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Nutty Pretzels: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts along with cinnamon sugar.
• Glazed Pretzels: Brush with a simple powdered sugar glaze instead of cinnamon sugar.
• Savory Option: Skip cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with coarse salt for traditional soft pretzels.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pretzels in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan for boiling
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling surface
• Spoon or pastry brush for topping

FAQs

Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, but reduce proofing time as instant yeast works faster.

Q2: Can I make mini pretzels?
Absolutely! Reduce boiling and baking time slightly for smaller pretzels.

Q3: Can I skip the baking soda bath?
Skipping it changes texture and flavor—the classic pretzel taste comes from the baking soda bath.

Q4: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and boil pretzels, then freeze before baking. Bake from frozen as needed.

Q5: Can I add extra flavors to the sugar coating?
Yes! Try adding nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or a pinch of cocoa for variation.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels are a fun, sweet, and soft snack that’s perfect for any occasion. From the chewy interior to the golden exterior coated in warm cinnamon sugar, each bite is comforting and delicious. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or festive treat, these homemade pretzels are a must-try recipe that’s sure to delight family and friends.