Why Make This Recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful treat that combines the soft, chewy texture of pretzels with the sweet warmth of cinnamon and sugar. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends, serve as a fun snack for parties, or simply satisfy your sweet cravings. Making these pretzels at home not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also allows you to enjoy them fresh out of the oven.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Directions:
- To begin, pour 1 cup of warm water into a small bowl.
- Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the warm water.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until dissolved.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate and become foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture.
- Add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the bowl.
- Stir everything together with a spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp towel.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches in length.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, twisting the ends, and folding them over the center.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the boiling water and stir to dissolve.
- One at a time, carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water, letting them cook for about 30 seconds each.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels from the water, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of each pretzel with the beaten egg to give them a glossy finish.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the pretzels while they are still wet from the egg wash.
- Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Allow the pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain, or dip them in chocolate, caramel sauce, or cream cheese frosting for added flavor. Pair them with a warm drink like hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy treat.
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
To keep your pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pretzels in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Make sure your water is warm, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Knead the dough well for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the boiling step, as it helps create that classic pretzel crust.
- Feel free to customize the cinnamon sugar topping with other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice.
Variation
You can try adding different toppings to your pretzels. For example, an Italian herb blend or cheese can give them a savory twist instead of the sweet cinnamon sugar. Also, feel free to experiment with different shapes or sizes for fun presentation.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping it into pretzels.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the flour without activating it in water.
What if I don’t have baking soda?
Baking soda is crucial for achieving the characteristic pretzel flavor and texture. If you don’t have any, it’s best to obtain some before making the recipe.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful soft pretzels with a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, perfect for sharing or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup of warm water into a small bowl and sprinkle the yeast over it.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until dissolved and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and add the melted butter.
- Stir until a dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp towel; let it rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide into 8 portions, and roll each into a rope about 18 inches long.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil 10 cups of water, add baking soda, and boil each pretzel for 30 seconds. Remove and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Serve warm, and consider dipping in chocolate or caramel. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.