Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels: A Warm and Chewy Treat 🥨✨🍬

1. Introduction

Step into the cozy world of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, a delightful twist on the classic pretzel that combines warm, chewy bread with a sweet and spiced coating. These homemade treats are perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or as a fun snack to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, these pretzels strike the perfect balance.

Learn more about the fascinating history of pretzels by visiting this link. For tips on achieving smooth, elastic dough, explore our guide on perfecting your dough here.

2. What Are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a magical fusion of textures and flavors: soft, pillowy interiors with a glossy exterior achieved through a baking soda bath, all finished with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar. This combination bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making them versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

Their appeal extends beyond taste—they’re also incredibly fun to make and serve. Perfect for gifting, parties, or simply indulging at home, these pretzels are sure to become a favorite. For more sweet-and-savory inspiration, browse our collection of comfort food recipes here.

3. Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)

To create these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pretzel Dough:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4–4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 10 cups water
• ⅔ cup baking soda

The Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

These carefully measured ingredients ensure your pretzels will be as delicious and consistent as possible. For more ingredient ideas, explore our guide on easy baking projects here.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 1 packet of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in 1 ½ cups of warm water (110°F/45°C). Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active. Add 4–4 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour or until doubled in size. For more dough-making tips, visit our guide on perfect dough techniques here.

Shaping the Pretzels

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope about 24 inches in length. Shape into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and folding them back down to create the classic twist. Place the shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. For shaping advice, explore our guide on customizable shapes here.

Baking Soda Bath and Baking

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and ⅔ cup of baking soda to a boil. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels and place them back on the baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. For more baking tips, browse our collection of party-worthy treats here.

Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

While the pretzels are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter. In a shallow bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Roll each pretzel in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. For more coating ideas, explore our guide on sweet dessert coatings here.

5. Decorating Your Pretzels

To elevate your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels, focus on presentation:

• Drizzle extra melted butter over the pretzels for added richness.
• Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Arrange pretzels on a platter with dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, or cream cheese frosting for variety.

These finishing touches make your pretzels truly irresistible. For more decorating ideas, explore our guide on dessert presentation here.

6. Serving Suggestions

These pretzels shine when served warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a comforting treat. Pair them with savory dips like cheese sauce or mustard for a sweet-and-savory experience. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. For more serving suggestions, browse our collection of quick dessert ideas here.

7. Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the pretzels safe for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes for a fully vegan version.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with coatings like pumpkin spice sugar, cocoa sugar, or even a savory garlic-parmesan mix for a unique twist.

These variations ensure everyone can enjoy the pretzels. For more substitution ideas, check out our family-friendly swaps here.

8. Nutritional Information

Each Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel contains approximately 250 calories. Here’s the macronutrient breakdown per pretzel:

• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fats: 6g
• Proteins: 5g

Please note these values may vary slightly based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Enjoy responsibly!

9. FAQs Section

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I skip the baking soda bath?

No, the baking soda bath is essential for achieving the classic pretzel flavor and texture. Skipping it will result in softer, less flavorful pretzels.

Q: Why didn’t my dough rise?

Dough fails to rise due to inactive yeast, incorrect water temperature, or insufficient warmth during proofing. Ensure your yeast is fresh, the water is around 110°F (45°C), and the dough rests in a warm, draft-free environment.

Q: Can I freeze the pretzels?

Yes, freeze shaped pretzels before baking. Boil and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the original baking time.

Q: How do I store leftover pretzels?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

10. Conclusion

Making Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy a warm, chewy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible texture, sweet-spiced coating, and endless customization options, these pretzels are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your own twists, these pretzels promise to delight everyone who tries them.

We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #CinnamonSugarSoftPretzels and tag us for a chance to be featured. Have feedback or questions? Leave a comment below—we’re here to help! For more easy baking recipes, explore our collection of homemade snacks here. Happy baking! 🥨✨🍬

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