Is there anything better than a warm, pillowy soft pretzel fresh out of the oven? Add a dusting of cinnamon sugar, and you’ve got a snack that’s absolutely irresistible. This Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels recipe is easy, homemade, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. Whether you’re a pretzel pro or a newbie, you’ll find this recipe fun and totally worth the effort.

I remember the first time I made soft pretzels at home—it was such a satisfying experience twisting the dough and watching them puff up in the oven. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a sweet touch that makes these pretzels perfect for dessert or an indulgent snack. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll never look at store-bought pretzels the same way again!

The Story Behind Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Soft pretzels have an exciting history rooted in European traditions. It’s believed that pretzels originated in monasteries as early as the 6th century, with their iconic twisted shape symbolizing arms crossed in prayer. Fast forward centuries later, and pretzels became a staple snack in Germany, eventually making their way to the U.S., where they took on their modern, fluffy form.

This recipe adds a sweet twist to the classic savory pretzel. I first discovered cinnamon-sugar pretzels at a farmer’s market on a chilly autumn afternoon, and I couldn’t get enough of that warm, sugary crunch paired with the soft, chewy dough. Since then, it’s been a treat I love to make when the weather cools down and I’m craving something comforting.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend snack, a party treat, or a holiday dessert, cinnamon-sugar pretzels always hit the spot. Plus, making them at home lets you control the sweetness level and enjoy them fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make these beauties. Each ingredient plays a critical role in creating that perfect texture and flavor.

Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture. Make sure to measure it accurately to avoid dry dough.
Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast both work here. Fresh yeast can also be used, but it requires a slightly different approach.
Warm Water: The water should be warm but not too hot (around 110°F or 43°C). Too hot, and it can kill the yeast; too cold, and the dough won’t rise properly.
Sugar: A little sugar feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
Salt: Essential for flavor balance. Kosher salt works best.
Baking Soda: Used in the boiling water bath to create that signature soft pretzel chewiness.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the dough and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
Cinnamon Sugar Mix: This is the star of the show! Combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and adjust the ratio to your liking. I usually go for 3 parts sugar to 1 part cinnamon.

If you need substitutions, whole wheat flour can replace part of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor. For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with coconut oil. And if you’re out of cinnamon, a mix of nutmeg and cardamom can create a similar warm spice profile.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a professional bakery setup to make these pretzels. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls for mixing and proofing the dough.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for the perfect pretzel dough!
Stand Mixer (optional): If you have one, it makes kneading the dough a breeze. Otherwise, your hands will do just fine.
Baking Sheets: Line these with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Large Pot: For boiling the pretzels in a baking soda bath.
Slotted Spoon: Handy for removing the pretzels from the boiling water.
Pastry Brush: Perfect for brushing melted butter over the pretzels.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a stand mixer—kneading by hand is therapeutic and works just as well. And if you don’t have a pastry brush, a spoon can do the job in a pinch.

How to Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Activate the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups (355 ml) of warm water with 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon (12 g) of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough: Add 4 cups (480 g) of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon (5 g) of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
Proof the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape the Pretzels: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape.
Baking Soda Bath: Boil 8 cups (1.9 liters) of water with ½ cup (120 g) of baking soda. Drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 20 seconds, then place on the baking sheet.
Bake: Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Brush the hot pretzels with melted butter and generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have pretzels that are soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making pretzels at home can feel intimidating, but these tips will help you succeed:

Make sure your water is warm but not too hot when activating the yeast—it should feel like a comfortable bath temperature.
If your dough feels sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s easy to handle.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it’s what gives pretzels their signature chewy texture and crust.
Be generous with the butter and cinnamon sugar—it’s what makes these pretzels so indulgent!

If your pretzels come out too dense, it’s likely that the dough wasn’t proofed long enough. Give it extra time to rise if needed.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ideas:

Chocolate Lover’s Pretzels: Swap the cinnamon sugar for cocoa powder mixed with sugar. Serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Spiced Pumpkin Pretzels: Add pumpkin puree to the dough and use pumpkin spice in the sugar mix.
Savory Twist: Skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle coarse salt or grated cheese instead.

If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Vegan friends can use plant-based butter alternatives and enjoy just as much deliciousness!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these pretzels warm for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with a cup of coffee, chai tea, or even hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They also work great as a dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

To store, let the pretzels cool completely, then keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each pretzel contains approximately:

Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 6 g
Sugar: 10 g

Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and the pretzels provide a good source of energy thanks to the carbohydrates. However, if you’re watching sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of cinnamon sugar coating.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat, these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the answer. They’re sweet, chewy, and homemade perfection. Plus, you can customize them to suit your preferences, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

I love making these pretzels because they bring warmth and joy to my kitchen, and I hope they do the same for you! If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes in the comments below. Share your creations on social media—I’d love to see your twists (pun intended)!

So, grab your apron and get ready to bake some magic. Happy pretzel-making!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly into the flour.

Why do I need a baking soda bath for pretzels?

The baking soda bath is essential for creating the chewy texture and golden crust that pretzels are known for.

Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked pretzels?

Absolutely! After shaping the pretzels, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Boil and bake directly from frozen when ready.

How do I make the cinnamon sugar stick better?

Brush the pretzels generously with melted butter while they’re still warm, then coat them immediately with the cinnamon sugar.

What can I serve with these pretzels?

These pretzels pair beautifully with dips like cream cheese frosting, caramel sauce, or even yogurt mixed with honey.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe Easy and Homemade