Discover how to make irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, a perfect snack for any time. Follow this easy recipe and delight your taste buds today.
Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
If you’re craving a sweet and comforting finger food, these irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels will satisfy every bite. Crafted with a soft, chewy texture and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re perfect for snack time or gatherings. This recipe guides you through each step so you can enjoy fresh homemade pretzels anytime.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe for irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels offers a delightful blend of soft dough and sweet flavor that appeals to all ages. They’re easy to make from scratch and have a classic homemade taste, making them a fun activity and delicious treat. Plus, homemade pretzels are fresher and more customizable than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F) – can substitute with lactose-free milk for richness
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar – coconut sugar works too
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version
- 1 tsp salt
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten – flax egg for vegan option
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – dairy-free margarine as alternative
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it rest for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mix. Knead by hand or mixer for about 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
- Divide the risen dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope roughly 20-24 inches long, then shape into a classic pretzel form.
- One at a time, boil each pretzel in the baking soda water for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to give a shiny golden crust after baking.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until pretzels turn a deep golden brown.
- While still warm, brush pretzels with melted butter, then generously sprinkle with a cinnamon sugar mixture.
Expert Tips
To ensure soft, chewy pretzels, measure your flour accurately and knead until the dough is just elastic. Boiling the pretzels in baking soda water is key to that signature crust, so don’t skip it. If your pretzels turn out pale, bake for a few minutes longer, watching closely to prevent burning. You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight for fresher dough flavor. To scale the recipe, simply double or halve ingredients evenly.
Storage
Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them individually, wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen pretzels in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes for best results.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace the egg wash with almond milk and use coconut oil or vegan butter for coating.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking; results may vary in texture.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter for melted coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Use coconut sugar or maple sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough and topping.
FAQ
- How do I make irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels at home?
- Follow our detailed step-by-step instructions that guide you from mixing the yeast dough to baking and coating with cinnamon sugar for soft, flavorful pretzels.
- Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?
- Yes! The dough can be made and refrigerated overnight, and baked fresh the next day. You can also freeze baked pretzels and reheat before serving.
- What makes pretzels soft instead of crunchy?
- The boiling step in baking soda water before baking is key to a soft, chewy pretzel crust rather than a hard or crunchy texture.
- Can I substitute the cinnamon sugar topping?
- Definitely! Try powdered sugar, a glaze, or even savory toppings like parmesan and herbs for different flavor profiles.
- Are these pretzels healthy snacks?
- While delicious and homemade, these pretzels are a treat due to sugar and butter content. You can make healthier swaps to reduce sugar or fat if desired.
Call to Action
Love these irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe, save it for your next snack craving, and share with friends who enjoy homemade treats. For more snack ideas, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Quick Finger Foods. For professional tips, visit the Food Network.
