Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels – Warm, Chewy & Irresistibly Sweet
Treat yourself with these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels! Soft, chewy pretzels are baked to golden perfection and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, making them the perfect snack, dessert, or party treat. Easy to make at home and loved by kids and adults alike, these pretzels are cozy, delicious, and utterly irresistible!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large pot (for baking soda bath)
- Slotted spoon
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (100–110°F / 38–43°C)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
Baking Soda Bath:
- 4 cups water
- 2–3 tbsp baking soda
Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1–2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional: coarse sea salt for savory variation
Instructions
- Activate Yeast:Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar in a bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough:Add flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Knead Dough:On a floured surface, knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape Pretzels:Divide dough into 8 portions. Roll each into an 18-inch rope, form a U, cross ends, and press down to create classic pretzel shape.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath:Boil 4 cups water and add baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel 20–30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake:Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake pretzels 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Add Topping:Brush hot pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar. Optional: add coarse salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Serve & Enjoy:Serve warm with dips like cream cheese frosting, chocolate sauce, or caramel.
Notes
- Storage: Airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore softness.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pretzels on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake from frozen.
- Whole Wheat Option: Replace up to half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter; omit egg if recipe calls for an egg wash.
- Creative Twists: Add chocolate chips, pumpkin puree, or shape into mini bites for parties.