Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels Recipe Easy Homemade Treat

The smell of warm, buttery cinnamon sugar wafting through the kitchen is pure bliss, isn’t it? These irresistibly soft cinnamon sugar pretzels are the homemade treat you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re looking for a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, something fun to bake with the kids, or a cozy dessert for a quiet evening, this recipe is a winner. Trust me, after one bite of these pillowy, golden-brown pretzels with their sparkly cinnamon-sugar coating, you’ll wonder why you’ve ever settled for store-bought.

I first discovered my love for cinnamon sugar pretzels during a trip to the mall. You know the ones—they’re warm, sweet, and always smell so tempting. But the homemade version? Oh, they’re next level! Plus, you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, which is truly a game changer. The best part? You don’t need to be a master baker to whip these up. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you’ll have pretzels that rival even the best pretzel shops.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about these cinnamon sugar pretzels. They’re not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These pretzels are perfectly soft on the inside with just the right amount of chewiness.
• Sweet and Buttery Coating: The cinnamon sugar combo paired with melted butter creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Fun to Make: Shaping the pretzels is a hands-on activity that’s perfect for involving kids or just enjoying some baking therapy.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even a fun addition to brunch spreads.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors: buttery richness, a hint of salt, and the warm sweetness of cinnamon sugar. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of making something so bakery-worthy right at home. Whether you’re serving these at a gathering or savoring them all to yourself, they’re bound to be a hit!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough. No need for fancy flours here!
• Instant yeast: Provides the lift and fluffiness. (Make sure it’s fresh!)
• Granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the dough.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pretzels.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
• Unsalted butter: Used in both the dough and for the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Baking soda: Essential for the quick water bath that gives pretzels their signature texture.
• Cinnamon: The star of the show! Use fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth to the cinnamon sugar coating.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast (just proof it first), or use salted butter and reduce the salt in the recipe. These pretzels are pretty forgiving!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a ton of fancy tools to make these pretzels. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: One large for the dough and one for the cinnamon sugar.
• Wooden spoon or stand mixer: For mixing and kneading the dough.
• Baking sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Small saucepan: For the baking soda water bath.
• Pastry brush: To coat the pretzels in melted butter.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, don’t worry! Kneading the dough by hand works just as well—it’s a great workout for your arms and surprisingly therapeutic.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (360g) of all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 1 cup (240ml) of warm water and 2 tablespoons (30g) of melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
3. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the pretzels: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 18 inches (45cm) long, then shape into a pretzel by looping the ends over each other.
5. Baking soda bath: Bring 4 cups (1L) of water and 1/4 cup (60g) of baking soda to a boil. Dip each pretzel in the boiling water for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Coat in cinnamon sugar: While the pretzels are still warm, brush them with melted butter and generously sprinkle with a mixture of 1/2 cup (100g) of brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.

And just like that, your cinnamon sugar pretzels are ready to enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t skip the baking soda bath: This step is what gives pretzels their chewy texture and golden color.
• Be generous with the cinnamon sugar: There’s no such thing as too much coating here!
• Shape with confidence: If your pretzels look a little wonky, that’s okay—they’ll still taste amazing.

Remember, practice makes perfect when shaping pretzels, so don’t stress too much. The key is to have fun!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly option.
• Chocolate drizzle: Once the pretzels have cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
• Savory twist: Skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with coarse salt for classic salted pretzels.

Feel free to get creative—add a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique flavor twist.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These pretzels are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh their softness.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each pretzel contains approximately 220 calories, 6g of fat, 38g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. The cinnamon provides antioxidants, and making these at home allows you to control the sugar content—win-win!

Conclusion

There’s something magical about homemade cinnamon sugar pretzels. They’re soft, sweet, and made with love. I hope this recipe finds a special place in your home, just as it has in mine. Let me know how yours turn out—leave a comment, or share your creations on social media. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water with a bit of sugar first.

Can I freeze the pretzels?

Absolutely! Freeze baked pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What’s the best way to reheat these pretzels?

Pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?

Yes, granulated sugar works well too, but brown sugar gives a richer flavor.

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