These cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are warm, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mix. Perfect for snack time, they’re a treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
My favorite part? The smell while they bake! It fills the house with a cozy vibe. I can never resist sneaking one right out of the oven. Who can blame me? 😄
Making these pretzels is super easy! Just whip up the dough, shape it, bake, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. They’re great for sharing or just enjoying all by yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Water: Using warm water (110°F) helps activate the yeast. If you’re out of water, you can use milk instead for a richer taste. Just warm it up to the right temperature.
Active Dry Yeast: This is crucial for that soft, fluffy texture. If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast. Just skip the frothing step and mix it directly with the flour!
All-Purpose Flour: This flour gives the pretzels their structure. If you want, you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. It might change the flavor slightly but it’s still delicious!
Cinnamon and Sugar: The cinnamon sugar mixture is what makes these pretzels so sweet. If you’re looking for something different, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Soft Pretzels?
To achieve that soft pretzel we all love, the key is in the boiling step! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Make sure your water is boiling before adding the pretzels. This initial boiling gives them a nice outer crust.
- Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds. Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary.
- After boiling, allow them to drain slightly before placing them on the baking sheet. This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better during baking.
These tips will ensure you get that classic pretzel texture that’s soft inside and slightly chewy on the outside!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pretzel Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Boiling Solution:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, 1 hour for the dough to rise, and 12-15 minutes for baking. So, you can expect to spend roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes total before you enjoy your delicious soft pretzels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is ready to go!
2. Make the Dough:
Once the yeast is frothy, add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. If your dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour as needed.
3. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 7-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use it on medium speed to knead the dough. This helps develop gluten for that perfect chewy texture!
4. Let it Rise:
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size, which will take about 1 hour.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
6. Boil the Pretzels:
In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil. This step is crucial for getting that lovely crust on your pretzels!
7. Shape the Pretzels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about 20 inches long, then twist it into a classic pretzel shape.
8. Boil the Pretzels:
Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling baking soda water, one at a time, for about 30 seconds. This gives them their distinctive flavor and texture. Use a slotted spatula to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Add Butter and Sugar:
Brush each pretzel generously with the melted butter. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each pretzel while the butter is still warm so the sugar sticks perfectly.
10. Bake and Enjoy:
Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once they’re out of the oven, you can brush them again with a little melted butter and sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar if you like.
11. Serve:
Allow them to cool slightly before serving, then enjoy these warm, delicious cinnamon sugar soft pretzels!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the texture and flavor of your pretzels.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzels?
Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, you can also wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them, which will keep them good for about a week.
Can I Freeze the Pretzels?
Yes, you can freeze the pretzels! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Baking Soda for Boiling?
If you don’t have baking soda, you can use a mixture of water and broth for boiling, but it won’t yield the same classic pretzel crust. Baking soda is key for that unique pretzel flavor and texture!