Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’ve ever been charmed by the smell of freshly baked cinnamon sugar soft pretzels drifting from a bakery, you’re going to love this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe. There’s something so comforting about that warm, soft dough paired with the perfect sprinkle of cinnamon sugar—I swear it’s like home in every bite. Whether it’s for a weekend treat, a fun twist on snack time, or a cozy gathering with friends, these pretzels bring a little extra magic to the table.

What makes this recipe extra special is how approachable it is, even if you’re not a baking pro. The dough is forgiving and soft, and the cinnamon sugar topping gives just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve made these for my family, and the smiles I get each time are all the proof I need to say—you’ve got to try this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a simple yet essential role in crafting those soft, fluffy pretzels with that nostalgic cinnamon sugar kick. I recommend using fresh yeast and good quality flour for the best rise and texture—trust me, it makes a difference!

• Active dry yeast: Fresh yeast helps the dough rise beautifully, giving that classic soft pretzel chewiness you want.
• Warm water: Make sure it’s warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Granulated sugar: A small amount feeds the yeast and sweetens the cinnamon sugar topping perfectly.
• All-purpose flour: This is your dough’s backbone—feel free to use bread flour if you want an extra chewy bite.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for richness and softness in the dough.
• Baking soda: Essential for that quick alkaline bath, which gives pretzels their signature crust and color.
• Large egg: Used for the egg wash, it helps the pretzels turn golden and glossy.
• Ground cinnamon: This adds warmth and pairs so well with the sugar for a cozy topping.

Variations

I love how this recipe invites a bit of creativity—you can personalize the cinnamon sugar soft pretzels to fit your mood or dietary preferences. I often tweak the topping or try different dipping sauces, and it makes for a fun, customizable snack.

• Sweet & Nutty: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the cinnamon sugar just before baking. I tried this last holiday season, and it added such a lovely crunch.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend, but I recommend adding a touch of xanthan gum for the best texture.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix for an aromatic twist—perfect for autumn vibes.
• Smaller Pretzels: Make mini bite-size pretzels for parties or lunchboxes; they bake faster and are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix Dough

Pour 1 cup of warm water into a small bowl—aim for around 100-110°F, just warm enough to wake up the yeast without scalding it. Sprinkle in 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to feed it. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s foamy and bubbling—this means your yeast is alive and ready, which is the first crucial step for soft, airy pretzels.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Knead

While the yeast does its thing, mix 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. When the yeast mixture looks bubbly and active, pour it into the flour, then add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir gently until the dough starts to come together. Then, turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes—this part is key for that perfect soft texture. If your dough’s sticky, just sprinkle a bit more flour as you knead.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until it doubles in size. This rise time develops flavor and lightness, so try not to rush it—even though it’s tempting to dive right in!

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

Punch down the dough gently to release trapped air, then divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope and shape each into the classic pretzel form: make a U-shape, twist the ends once, then fold them over the center. It sounds tricky, but after the first couple, it feels like second nature! You can even make little bites if you prefer.

Step 5: The Baking Soda Bath

This step is where your pretzels really start to shine. Bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a big pot and then stir in 1/4 cup of baking soda carefully—it fizzes a bit, so watch out! Gently lower each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds; this alkaline bath gives that signature chew and beautiful golden crust you expect. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg to help the topping stick and to get that gorgeous glossy finish. Then mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and sprinkle generously over each pretzel while the egg wash is still wet. That way, the cinnamon sugar adheres perfectly and bakes into a sweet, crunchy coating.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pop those beauties into a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a warm golden color—the moment they start to turn golden, that’s your green light. Let them cool on a rack for a few minutes, though I totally get the impulse to dig right in while they’re still warm!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing, I like to keep things simple so the cinnamon sugar topping shines. A light dusting of powdered sugar after baking adds an extra touch of sweetness and looks so pretty. Sometimes, I drizzle a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a little extra indulgence—totally optional but oh so good.

Side Dishes

To make it a real treat, I often serve these pretzels with a warm vanilla or cream cheese dip on the side. Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries balance the sweetness beautifully if you want a fresher contrast. For a gathering, these pretzels go great alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider—so cozy!

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve had fun arranging small pretzel bites on a wooden board alongside ramekins of cinnamon dip, caramel sauce, and melted chocolate for a DIY snack platter that’s sure to impress at parties. You can even stack pretzels in layers with parchment paper in between to create a stunning centerpiece for dessert tables. It always gets compliments and makes sharing easier!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh, but I keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. I find that storing them without refrigeration helps maintain their softness—just pop them in a ziplock bag or container and keep them out of the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead or save some for later, freeze the pretzels after they’re fully cooled. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and reheat—it really helps you skip the wait for your next cinnamon sugar soft pretzel craving!

Reheating

For reheating, my favorite method is to warm the pretzels in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back the soft texture and revitalizes that glossy, golden finish. I avoid microwaving because it tends to make them a bit rubbery or chewy, so baking is definitely worth the extra few minutes.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe holds a special place in my heart for those moments when I want comfort food with a little sweet twist. It’s a hands-on project that feels rewarding from start to finish, and the results? Pure bliss. I encourage you to try them out—whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet afternoon or making memories with family and friends, these pretzels never disappoint. And honestly, nothing beats that warm cinnamon sugar smell filling your kitchen!

Print