why make this recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful snack that everyone loves. They’re warm, chewy, and have a sweet cinnamon sugar topping that makes them irresistible. Making these pretzels at home is easier than you might think, and they’re perfect for parties, game days, or even just a fun family night. Plus, the smell of baking pretzels will fill your kitchen with warmth and a cozy feeling!
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
These pretzels are best served warm. You can enjoy them as is, or you can serve them with a side of cream cheese or chocolate sauce for dipping. They make a great snack for movie nights or as a sweet treat after a meal.
how to store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Once the pretzels have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
tips to make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Make sure the water is warm, but not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
- Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which gives the pretzels their chewy texture.
- Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s what gives the pretzels that classic pretzel flavor and texture.
- Be generous when sprinkling the cinnamon sugar for the best flavor.
variation
You can add toppings to your pretzels for extra flavor. Try adding some coarse sea salt, or sprinkle with chocolate chips for a sweet twist. You can also make savory pretzels by skipping the cinnamon sugar and brushing them with melted butter and coarse salt instead.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the pretzels and freeze them before boiling. When ready to bake, just boil and bake directly from the freezer.
2. What can I use instead of active dry yeast? You can use instant yeast in the same amount, but you can skip the proofing step. Just mix it with the flour and salt.
3. Can I make these pretzels gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
Method
- 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 and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
- 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 and add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
- Stir everything together until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it 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 and roll each 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, and add 1/4 cup of baking soda to it.
- Drop each pretzel into the boiling water one at a time, cooking for about 30 seconds each.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of each pretzel with the beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, then sprinkle over the pretzels while still wet from the egg wash.
- Bake the pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.