Oh, hello there, my sweet friends! I’m so excited to share something truly special with you today. We’re diving into the wonderful world of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels!
You know, there are days when I just need a little kitchen magic. Something that feels like a warm hug.
This recipe is exactly that. It’s not just about baking; it’s about creating joy.
I remember the first time I perfected these. My kitchen filled with the scent of cinnamon.
It was pure bliss, truly. These soft pretzels are a game-changer.
They’re perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. They offer a quick, sweet escape.
Imagine biting into a warm, chewy pretzel. It’s coated in glorious cinnamon sugar.
It’s a simple pleasure, yet so satisfying. This recipe brings that joy right to your home.
It’s a treat everyone will adore. Trust me on this one!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
You’ll fall head over heels for these, I promise!
They are surprisingly easy to make. No culinary school needed here!
The aroma alone will transport you. It’s pure comfort, truly.
Plus, they taste absolutely incredible. That sweet and chewy combo? Divine!
They’re perfect for a quick snack. Or a delightful dessert, too.
These pretzels bring smiles. They’re a real crowd-pleaser, for sure.
You’ll love the sense of accomplishment. Baking these feels so rewarding.
It’s a little bit of happiness. Right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Let’s talk about what makes these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels so special!
Gathering your ingredients is step one. It’s like gathering your team.
I find it helpful to have everything ready. This makes the process smooth.
You’ll find the exact measurements needed. They are listed at the very end of this post.
You can even print them out! So convenient, right?
Essential Dough Ingredients
First, you’ll need some warm water. This wakes up our yeast.
Active dry yeast is key. It makes our pretzels fluffy.
A touch of sugar feeds the yeast. It helps it get bubbly.
Salt adds flavor, crucially. It balances all the sweetness.
All-purpose flour forms the dough. It’s our main building block.
Baking soda is for the bath. This gives pretzels their chew.
Unsalted butter, melted, adds richness. It helps the sugar stick.
The Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Granulated sugar is our base. It provides that sweet crunch.
Ground cinnamon brings the warmth. It’s the star of the show.
Together, they create magic. It’s truly a classic combo.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Alright, let’s get our hands delightfully messy!
Making these homemade soft pretzels is an adventure.
It’s a journey from simple ingredients to pure joy.
Follow these steps for perfect results. You’ll be a pretzel pro!
Activating the Yeast for Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
First, we awaken our yeast. It’s like magic, truly.
Combine warm water, yeast, and one teaspoon of sugar.
Let it sit for five minutes. You’ll see it get foamy.
This means your yeast is active. It’s ready to work!
Kneading Your Dough to Perfection
Next, add salt and flour. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
Turn it onto a floured surface. Now, let’s knead!
Knead for five to seven minutes. It will become smooth.
It will also be wonderfully elastic. This is crucial for chewy pretzels.
The Rise of Your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Turn it to coat.
Cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot.
About one hour should do it. It will double in size.
This rise gives our pretzels their light texture.
Preparing for the Boil
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line two baking sheets.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Trust me on this!
Bring six cups of water to a boil. Add the baking soda.
This creates the special pretzel bath. It’s important!
The Baking Soda Bath
Punch down the risen dough. Divide it into 12 pieces.
Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water.
Only for thirty seconds, please. Don’t overcrowd the pot.
Remove with a slotted spoon. Place on prepared sheets.
Shaping Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. This takes practice.
Form a U-shape with the rope. Cross the ends twice.
Bring them down to the U’s bottom. Press to seal.
You’ve got your classic pretzel shape! How fun is that?
Baking to Golden Perfection
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. They should be golden brown.
Keep an eye on them in the oven. Ovens vary, after all.
When they look perfect, take them out. They smell amazing!
These baked cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are almost ready!
The Sweet Finish: Coating Your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
While warm, brush with melted butter. Don’t be shy!
In a shallow dish, mix sugar and cinnamon. This is the magic.
Dredge each buttered pretzel. Make sure it’s fully coated.
Serve them warm and enjoy every bite. Pure bliss, truly!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the dough’s rise. Patience makes perfect pretzels.
- Ensure your water is warm, not hot. Too hot kills the yeast.
- Measure ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, after all.
- Don’t overcrowd the boiling pot. Give each pretzel space.
- Coat pretzels while warm. Butter helps the sugar stick.
- Practice shaping for pretty pretzels. It gets easier, I promise!
- Adjust baking time as needed. Ovens can be quirky.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowls are essential. One for dough, one for coating.
- A sturdy baking sheet works wonders. Two are even better!
- Parchment paper makes cleanup easy. It prevents sticking, too.
- A large pot is needed for the boil. Make sure it’s big enough.
- A slotted spoon helps with removal. It drains excess water.
- A pastry brush for melted butter. Or use a paper towel.
- A rolling pin helps shape dough. Your hands work too!
Variations for Your Soft Pretzels
- Try a savory twist! Skip the cinnamon sugar.
- Sprinkle with coarse salt after boiling. It’s a classic.
- Add garlic powder for a savory kick. So delicious!
- Experiment with different spices. Nutmeg or cardamom, maybe?
- For chocolate lovers, add cocoa to the sugar. Yum!
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate. A sweet indulgence.
- Gluten-free flour blends can work. Adjust liquid as needed.
- Use plant-based butter for dairy-free. Options for everyone!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve them warm, right from the oven. That’s peak deliciousness!
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee. Or a comforting mug of tea.
- A glass of cold milk is perfect. It balances the sweetness.
- Offer a cream cheese dip. Or a caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- They make a fantastic party snack. Arrange them on a platter.
- Pack them in lunchboxes. A sweet surprise for anyone.
- Enjoy them as a cozy dessert. Especially on a chilly evening.
FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Got questions about these delightful cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?
I’ve got answers for you! Let’s clear up any doubts.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely, you can!
This is a fantastic time-saver, especially for busy days.
After the first rise, punch down the dough.
Place it in an oiled bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate overnight, up to 24 hours.
Before shaping, bring it to room temperature. This takes about 30 minutes.
Then, proceed with the recipe as usual. It’s so convenient!
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels?
If you have any leftovers, that is!
Store them in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature.
They’ll stay fresh for up to two days.
For best results, reheat them briefly.
A quick microwave zap works wonders. Or a few minutes in a warm oven.
They’ll taste almost as good as fresh. Truly, they will!
Can I Make These Pretzels Gluten-Free?
It’s a common question, and yes, you can try!
Using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is key.
Look for one designed for yeast baking. This is important.
You might need to adjust the liquid slightly. Gluten-free flours absorb differently.
The texture may vary a bit. But you can still enjoy a delicious gluten-free soft pretzel.
Experimentation is part of the fun. Don’t be afraid to try!
What is the Purpose of the Baking Soda Bath?
Ah, the baking soda bath! It’s pure magic.
This quick dip in alkaline water is crucial.
It gives pretzels their distinct chewy crust. It also helps with browning.
Without it, your pretzels would be more like bread rolls. Still tasty, but not pretzels!
It’s a small step that makes a huge difference. Don’t skip it!
Why are My Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Not Soft?
Oh no, that’s disappointing!
Several things can cause this. Over-kneading is one possibility.
Too much flour can also make them tough. Be precise with measurements.
Also, make sure your yeast is active. If it doesn’t foam, it’s dead.
Baking them for too long dries them out. Keep an eye on the clock!
Ensuring a good rise helps too. A happy dough makes soft pretzels.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, my friends!
These cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are more than just a recipe.
They are a little piece of comfort. A moment of sweet escape.
I genuinely hope you try them. You deserve this delicious treat.
Imagine the smiles they’ll bring. To your family, or just to you.
Baking them fills your home with warmth. And an amazing aroma.
It’s a simple act of self-care. Or a loving gesture for others.
So go ahead, embrace the joy of baking. And savor every bite!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels: Sweet & Chewy!
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 pretzels
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft pretzels are coated in cinnamon sugar, offering a delightful combination of chewy texture and sweet spice. They are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 6 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
- Add salt and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Bring 6 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Form each rope into a pretzel shape by making a U-shape, crossing the ends twice, and bringing them down to the bottom of the U.
- Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Do not overcrowd the pot. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While pretzels are still warm, brush them with melted butter.
- In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
- Dredge each buttered pretzel in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping.
- For a savory option, sprinkle with coarse salt instead of cinnamon sugar after baking.
- Leftover pretzels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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