Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the world’s most comforting, bakery-style treat to make at home, these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are about to become your newest obsession. Imagine pillowy, golden pretzels, shimmering with a sweet cinnamon-sugar finish, and a hint of buttery richness that practically melts in your mouth. This recipe yields everything you love in a classic soft pretzel, plus the warm, nostalgic flavor of sweet cinnamon—making every twist and bite positively irresistible. Whether you’re new to pretzel making or a seasoned baker, you’ll love sharing these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with family and friends (or, honestly, keeping them all to yourself).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels is how each ingredient, simple as it may seem, plays a starring role in creating that fluffy, chewy texture and the dreamy flavor. Gather these pantry staples and get ready for some delicious, homemade magic!

• Active dry yeast: Brings the dough to life, making sure your pretzels puff up beautifully with perfect softness.
• Warm water: Just the right temperature (not too hot!) helps activate the yeast and sets the stage for a silky dough.
• Granulated sugar: A little in the dough and more for the coating gives that sweet, satisfying finish.
• All-purpose flour: The workhorse of this recipe, providing structure and chewiness to the pretzels.
• Salt: Essential for brightening up all the flavors and balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness to the dough and makes every bite tender, never dry.
• Baking soda: The secret to a classic pretzel crust—this turns your homemade pretzels deep golden and gives them their signature chew.
• Large egg (beaten): Creates a glossy, beautiful finish so your cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly.
• Ground cinnamon: The magic ingredient that makes these pretzels cozy and fragrant.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring your warm water into a small bowl—a cozy bath for the yeast. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and stir in a bit of granulated sugar to help kickstart the process. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it gets bubbly and foamy. This is your assurance that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Now, pour in your foamy yeast mixture and the melted butter. Stir everything together with a sturdy spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (don’t be shy with the flour) and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic ball of dough that springs back when poked. This step builds that classic soft pretzel texture we all crave.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough into a clean, lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Set it in a warm spot and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. This is when the dough develops all its lovely fluffiness.

Step 5: Shape Your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope (about 18 inches). Shape each rope into the classic pretzel “U,” twist the ends, and tuck them down to form that unmistakable pretzel knot.

Step 6: Give Them Their Pretzel Bath

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda. This simple bath helps create the shiny, chewy exterior you love. Using a slotted spoon, dip each pretzel into the bath for about 30 seconds. Transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for their sweet topping.

Step 7: Add the Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg—this not only creates a golden finish but also helps the cinnamon sugar stick. In a small bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Generously sprinkle this mixture over each pretzel while they’re still wet from the egg wash.

Step 8: Bake and Enjoy!

Place your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and the kitchen smells like pure heaven. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving (though you’ll be tempted to grab one right away!).

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, brush freshly baked pretzels with a little melted butter before sprinkling more cinnamon sugar. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple glaze also works wonders if you want them extra decadent!

Side Dishes

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the perfect partner to a steaming mug of hot cocoa or strong coffee. For an indulgent snack platter, pair them with fruit, vanilla yogurt dip, or even a rich cream cheese spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile these beauties high on a rustic wooden board for brunch or arrange them in a basket lined with a cozy napkin for that classic bakery feel. For parties, consider threading mini pretzels onto skewers, or serve them with tiny dipping cups of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The sugar coating will keep them sweet and the interior stays surprisingly soft!

Freezing

To freeze, let the pretzels cool completely before wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll stay perfect for up to two months—ideal for those surprise snack emergencies!

Reheating

Refresh day-old or frozen pretzels by popping them into a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warm. If reheating from frozen, don’t thaw first; just bake until heated through. A quick brush of melted butter and another dusting of cinnamon sugar will revive their bakery-fresh magic.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely, you can substitute instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. There’s no need to proof it; just add it directly to your flour mixture. The rest of the recipe stays the same for perfect Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels.

Why do you boil pretzels in baking soda water?

This quick boil is the secret behind that classic chewy crust and deep golden color. Baking soda raises the pH of the water, giving your pretzels their signature flavor and making each bite truly authentic.

How can I make these pretzels vegan?

You can use dairy-free butter or even neutral oil instead of regular butter, and skip the egg wash by brushing the pretzels with a little plant-based milk before dredging in cinnamon sugar.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and follow the recipe as written. Make sure to give your dough enough space to rise and bake the pretzels in batches if needed.

Do I have to use all-purpose flour, or can I try whole wheat or bread flour?

All-purpose flour gives the ultimate soft and chewy texture, but you can experiment! Try substituting up to half of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier twist, or use bread flour for even more chewiness. Just keep in mind that the texture will change slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making homemade pretzels before, these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the delicious introduction you deserve. They’re so much fun to make, and each warm, sugar-dusted bite feels like an indulgent bakery treat. Grab your ingredients, get twisting, and let the irresistible aroma fill your kitchen—your taste buds (and everyone who walks in the door) will thank you!

Print