Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

Why Make This Recipe

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful treat that anyone can enjoy. They are soft, chewy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, making them perfect for snacking or as a dessert. Making pretzels at home allows you to experience the joy of fresh baked goods straight from the oven. This recipe is easy to follow and results in pretzels that are better than you can find at a mall or carnival.

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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

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain or with a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness. They make a perfect snack or dessert for gatherings, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home.

How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

To store your pretzels, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the pretzels tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Make sure the water is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast.
Kneading the dough well will result in a better texture.
Don’t skip the boiling step—it helps create the classic pretzel crust.
Use a slotted spoon to carefully lower pretzels into the boiling water.

Variation

You can customize your pretzels by adding toppings like coarse sea salt, melted chocolate, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the flour without proofing it in water.

2. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and look puffy when it has risen enough.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!