Ah, the sweet smell of warm cinnamon sugar pretzels wafting through the air! If you’ve ever been to a fair or a carnival, you probably remember that magical moment when you first bite into a fluffy, golden pretzel coated in cinnamon sugar. Well, let me tell you, making that dreamy snack at home is not only simpler than it sounds, it’s downright fun!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly fall afternoon when a craving hit me hard for something sweet yet comforting. As I mixed the dough, I was taken back to my childhood, where my friends and I would gather around a food cart, devouring these treasures while sharing giggles and stories. This recipe brings that nostalgia right into my kitchen, and I know you’ll love making (and devouring) these delightful soft pretzels just as much as I do!
What’s in Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
All-Purpose Flour: The base of our pretzel dough. I prefer using unbleached all-purpose flour for a richer flavor and better texture.
Yeast: Essential for that beautiful rise! You can use active dry yeast, which is what I usually keep on hand, or instant yeast for a quicker process.
Warm Water: This helps activate the yeast, so make sure it’s warm, not hot. A temperature around 110°F is just perfect.
Sugar: A little sugar goes into the dough for a hint of sweetness, and then we use more for that glorious cinnamon sugar topping.
Salt: A must for enhancing all the flavors and adding that classic pretzel taste.
Cinnamon: The star of the show when it comes to our topping! I like using Ceylon cinnamon for its fragrant and sweet flavor.
Butter: Melted butter brush gives our pretzels a beautiful finish before they’re dusted in that luscious cinnamon sugar.
Is Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Good for You?
Now, while we all know that these sweet soft pretzels are a treat, indulging every now and then is totally okay! Here’s the scoop on the nutrition:
Flour: It provides some carbohydrates for energy, but keep in mind that they’re not a whole grain option. You can swap with whole wheat flour for a little extra nutrition if you wish!
Yeast: It’s packed with nutrients like B vitamins, which can be beneficial!
Sugar: While sugar isn’t exactly a health food, it is used in moderation here to create that delightful topping.
Butter: Though it adds richness, I suggest using just enough to coat your pretzels without going overboard. A little fat can help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, after all!
So, enjoy these pretzels as an occasional treat, and let the nostalgia and joy of baking fill your day.
Ingredients List
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ cup sugar (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
This recipe will serve about 8 delicious pretzels.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets frothy; this means your yeast is alive and well!
2. Add in the flour, salt, and mix until a dough forms. You can get in there with your hands or use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F while your dough is rising. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. 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), and twist into a pretzel shape.
6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add 1/4 cup of baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Brush each pretzel with melted butter and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture (which is made from combining the sugar and cinnamon).
8. Bake the pretzels for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is absolutely heavenly.
9. Let them cool slightly, grab one (or two), and enjoy the sweet, warm goodness!
Twist and Season!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon sugar for a twist!
– You can also dip these pretzels in cream cheese frosting or warm chocolate for an extra treat!
– If you want to keep some for later, just freeze them before baking! Thaw and bake whenever you need a pretzel fix.
I truly hope you give these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels a try! It’s such a delight to share a warm pretzel with friends and family—trust me, you’ll be the star of your next gathering. And even if they disappear faster than you can say “pretzel,” the smiles you’ll create will be worth every bite! Happy baking!