These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are warm, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mix. Perfect for snack time or a fun treat any day!
Making pretzels at home is easier than you might think! I love dipping them in icing for extra sweetness. Trust me, one pretzel is never enough! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for the dough to rise. If you don’t have it, you can use instant yeast instead without changing the quantity. Just mix it with flour instead of activating it in water first.
All-Purpose Flour: This gives the pretzels their structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might be slightly different.
Baking Soda: Used in the boiling water, baking soda gives pretzels their classic flavor and chewy texture. Don’t skip this step as it makes a significant difference!
Cinnamon and Sugar: The topping adds sweetness and flavor. You can adjust the cinnamon to your taste. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or adapting to a pumpkin spice blend in the sugar.
How Do I Shape the Pretzels Properly?
Shaping pretzels can be tricky. Here’s a simple guide:
- After dividing the dough, roll each piece into a log about 20-24 inches long. If the dough resists, let it rest for a minute, then roll again.
- Create a U shape with the rope. Cross the ends over each other twice, making sure to press them down onto the bottom of the U.
- The crossing should form the classic pretzel shape. If it looks wonky, don’t worry! Just make sure the ends are firmly attached.
Practice makes perfect, and even if they don’t look perfect, they’ll taste delicious!
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For Boiling:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2-3 tbsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation, plus 1 hour for the dough to rise and 12-14 minutes for baking. So overall, you’ll need around 1 hour and 30 minutes. But the wait is totally worth it for these tasty pretzels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets nice and frothy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to help your pretzels rise!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until it’s combined. Then, on a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It feels great to knead!
3. Let it Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step makes it fluffy!
4. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them. This will prevent sticking.
5. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil. This bath is what gives the pretzels their yummy flavor and unique texture.
6. Shape the Pretzels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20-24 inches long). Now, shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U, crossing the ends over each other twice, and pressing them onto the bottom of the U. Fun, right?
7. Boil the Pretzels:
Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spatula to lift them out and place them on the prepared baking sheets. This step is critical for making those delicious chewy pretzels!
8. Bake the Pretzels:
Bake the pretzels in your preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until they are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Add the Topping:
While the pretzels are baking, mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. The combination of these flavors is delightful!
10. Finish and Enjoy:
When the pretzels are done baking, take them out and immediately brush them with melted butter. Then, coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to make them even more delicious. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.
Enjoy your warm, soft cinnamon sugar pretzels! They are perfect as a snack and also great reheated gently. You might find yourself making these again and again!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Absolutely! You can use instant yeast in the same amount. Just mix it directly with the flour instead of activating it in water.
What If My Dough Isn’t Rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to the yeast not being active. Make sure your water is at the right temperature (110°F/45°C) and check the expiration date on your yeast. If in doubt, try a new packet!
How Can I Store Leftover Pretzels?
Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them, but they may lose some softness. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Try sprinkling sea salt for the classic pretzel flavor, or get creative with garlic powder, cheese, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
