why make this recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the perfect treat, combining a soft, chewy texture with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. They are not only delicious but also fun to make. These pretzels can be served as a snack, a dessert, or even at parties. The warm aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen, making it a comforting experience. Plus, they are best enjoyed 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
Serve these pretzels warm, straight from the oven. They pair well with a side of warm frosting or cream cheese dip. You can also enjoy them with a glass of milk or a hot beverage like coffee or cocoa.
how to store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
If you have any pretzels left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in a zip-top bag in the freezer. Make sure to wrap them well so they don’t get freezer burn.
tips to make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Make sure the water is warm but not hot when activating the yeast, as hot water can kill the yeast.
- Kneading the dough well will help create a nice chewy texture.
- Don’t skip the boiling step! This helps give pretzels their unique flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different toppings, like chocolate or flavored sugar, to add variety.
variation (if any)
You can change things up by adding different flavors to the dough, such as vanilla extract or nutmeg. For a savory pretzel, try topping them with coarse salt and herbs instead of cinnamon sugar.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just add it directly to the flour mixture without the need for activating it in water first.
2. How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should have doubled in size and looked puffy. You can also gently poke it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
3. Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?
Yes, you can knead the dough and let it rise, then shape the pretzels. Cover them tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to boil and bake them. Make sure to let them come back to room temperature before boiling.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
Method
- 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 to 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- After the yeast has activated, pour it into the flour mixture and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into an 18-inch rope and shape into a pretzel.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring 10 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the boiling water and stir to dissolve.
- Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds and remove with a slotted spoon.
- Place the pretzels on a lined baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.