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When the aroma of cinnamon sugar fills the kitchen, it feels like a warm hug from the inside out. That’s exactly the experience you’ll have with these irresistibly soft cinnamon sugar pretzels. Picture this: golden-brown, pillowy dough with a slight crunch on the outside and a warm, chewy center, all coated in a sweet cinnamon topping that dances on your palate. This beginner-friendly recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful treat, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a fun family activity. As I whipped up a batch recently, I was reminded of how easy it is to create that beloved snack-house quality right in your own oven. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels hit the spot every time!

Why are Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels a Must-Try?

Irresistible Aroma: The warm scent of cinnamon elevates your kitchen into a cozy haven, inviting everyone to gather around as the pretzels bake.

Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for novices, with simple steps that make success achievable right from the first batch.

Sweet-Savory Harmony: The delightful balance of sweet cinnamon sugar and hint of salt ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast—these pretzels fit any occasion beautifully.

Perfect for Sharing: Made for gatherings or cozy movie nights, sharing these warm treats is always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to check out my other delicious recipes like Classic Bagels to expand your baking repertoire!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create delightful Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels at home!

For the Dough

Active Dry Yeast – Essential for dough rise and creating a soft, chewy texture.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm but not hot to keep the yeast alive.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast for optimal rising.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for those chewy pretzels that make every bite satisfying.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness with savory elements.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and a lovely golden hue to your pretzels.

For the Boiling Bath

Baking Soda – Creates that distinctive chewy crust when pretzels are boiled before baking.

For the Egg Wash and Topping

Large Egg (beaten) – Brushed on the pretzels for a beautiful, glossy finish.
Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Adds a sweet, crunchy layer that complements the soft interior.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides the warm, spicy flavor that brings the cinnamon sugar topping to life.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix 1 cup warm water and 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; stir in 1 tbsp granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy—this signals your yeast is active!
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt. This mixture provides the foundation for your pretzels.
Form the Dough: Add the yeast mixture and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter to the flour. Stir until a dough begins to form, bringing all the ingredients together into a sticky ball.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when poked.
Let It Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Pretzels: Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 8 equal portions and roll each piece into a rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel form, crossing and twisting the ends.
Preheat the Oven: While shaping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for those delicious pretzels!
Prepare the Boiling Bath: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add 1/4 cup baking soda, stirring to dissolve.
Boil the Pretzels: Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling bath for 30 seconds. This step is crucial for creating the chewy texture. Remove and transfer to a lined baking sheet.
Egg Wash and Top: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture to add that sweet crust.
Bake: Place the pretzels in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the pretzels to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm and enjoying the delightful flavors!

Optional: Sprinkle with a touch more cinnamon sugar before serving for extra sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Room Temperature: Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. If they start to harden, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Fridge: Keep pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They may lose some crispness but can be revived with a quick reheating.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap pretzels in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Reheating: Reheat individual cinnamon sugar soft pretzels in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven for a few minutes to restore their delightful texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are fantastic for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the initial steps up to dough rising, then store the dough in your refrigerator. Cover it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature, shape your pretzels, and continue with the boiling and baking steps as usual. This prep-ahead approach ensures your pretzels are just as delicious and fluffy while allowing you to enjoy freshly baked treats with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Active Yeast Check: Always ensure your yeast is bubbly and frothy before mixing into the dough; this confirms it’s active and will help your pretzels rise properly.
Avoid Overcrowding: When boiling your pretzels, do it in batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the water temperature and affect the texture of your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels.
Knead Well: Take your time kneading the dough! Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives your pretzels that delightful chewy texture.
Egg Wash Trick: Don’t skimp on the egg wash! A generous application not only gives a lovely shine but also helps the cinnamon sugar topping adhere better.
Baking Soda Balance: Be sure to accurately measure the baking soda in the boiling bath—it’s what gives the pretzels that delicious, chewy crust that you crave!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?

When planning the perfect meal or snack to accompany your freshly baked pretzels, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your experience.

Creamy Cheese Dip: The smoothness of a warm cheese dip creates a delicious contrast with the sweetness of the pretzels.
Iced Chai Latte: The spiced notes of chai enhance the cinnamon flavor in the pretzels while providing a refreshing drink option.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and zesty fruit adds a refreshing balance, cutting through the richness of the pretzels’ soft texture.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cinnamon sugar soft pretzels adds an indulgent touch that will have everyone reaching for more.
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic pairing that complements the sweetness of the pretzels, this drink is sure to transport you back to childhood memories.
Whipped Butter: A simple dollop of whipped butter adds richness and spreads beautifully atop the warm pretzels, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream is a perfect match for warm pretzels, creating a delightful warm-and-cold contrast.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea will balance the sweetness of the pretzels while offering a cozy beverage to sip alongside.
Cinnamon Sugar Apples: Drawing on the same flavor profile, this sweet side dish will enhance the cinnamon experience, making for a cohesive dessert spread.
Hot Chocolate: Rich and chocolaty, a warm cup of hot chocolate provides a comforting drink that pairs seamlessly with your delicious pretzels.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these delightful soft pretzels, transforming them into unique versions that suit your taste!

Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a creamy touch without dairy.
Enjoy a slightly nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum for structure.
These pretzels can still be irresistibly soft and chewy!
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the pretzels for an extra indulgent treat.
The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with cinnamon, making each bite a delightful experience!
Maple Sugar Topping: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique twist in sweetness, infusing an earthy flavor to each bite.
This variation enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully!
Apple Pie Spice: Sprinkle apple pie spice along with cinnamon for a warm, autumnal flavor to reminisce about cozy fall days.
Each pretzel will blossom with fragrant notes that evoke nostalgia!
Cheesy Pretzels: For those who prefer savory over sweet, add shredded cheese into the dough and sprinkle more on top just before baking.
The combination of cheesy and salty truly makes them irresistible!
Cinnamon Swirl: Roll pieces of dough into ropes, twist them with cinnamon sugar filling, and then shape into pretzels for a sweet surprise inside.
This method creates a delightful cinnamon explosion with every bite!
Spicy Pretzels: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet-and-spicy kick that will dazzle your taste buds.
A fiery twist on classic flavors makes for an unforgettable snack experience!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for my pretzels?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and bubbly when combined with the warm water—if it’s not frothy after 5-10 minutes, discard it and start over. When selecting flour, all-purpose flour works perfectly, but check for any lumps or discoloration. As for your cinnamon, opt for freshly ground whenever possible for a more aromatic flavor.

How should I store my cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
To maintain their lovely softness, store your pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re keeping them for a bit longer, the fridge is perfect for extending their life to 4-5 days, though they may lose some crispness. I recommend popping them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying to soften up again!

Can I freeze my cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
Yes, you can easily freeze these delightful treats! Wrap each pretzel in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—this method keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through and almost like fresh!

What do I do if my pretzels aren’t chewy enough?
If your pretzels are lacking that coveted chewiness, there may be a couple of reasons. Ensure you’re following the boiling step precisely; believe me, that baking soda bath is crucial. If you’re not boiling long enough, that’s likely it! Boil each pretzel for at least 30 seconds in the water to help develop that classic chewy crust.

Are there any dietary considerations for my pretzels?
Certainly! If you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients—common allergens include wheat (from the flour) and eggs (in the wash). For a dairy-free option, you can substitute melted vegan butter for the unsalted butter. Also, if you’re making these for pets, keep these delicious treats out of their reach, as the sugar and salt aren’t great for their diet.