Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful twist on the classic pretzel. Soft, warm, and sprinkled with sweet cinnamon sugar, they make for a perfect snack or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends and family, these pretzels are sure to impress everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels at home is both fun and rewarding. You can enjoy warm, fluffy pretzels with a sweet cinnamon touch right out of the oven. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, making it a great activity for kids and adults alike. The aroma of freshly baked pretzels will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that everyone will love.
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
These pretzels are best served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy them plain or with a side of dipping sauces like sweet icing or chocolate sauce for extra sweetness. They also pair well with coffee or hot cocoa.
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
To store leftover pretzels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Make sure the water is warm but not hot when dissolving the yeast.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth to ensure fluffy pretzels.
- To achieve that perfect golden color, make sure to brush the pretzels with the egg wash before baking.
Variation
For a twist, you can try adding different toppings, such as coarse salt, everything bagel seasoning, or even drizzle with icing after baking for a sweeter option.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly into the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in water.
2. Can I freeze the pretzels?
Absolutely! Place the cooled pretzels in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
3. What can I dip these pretzels in?
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are delicious on their own, but they can also be dipped in caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or cream cheese icing for added flavor.
Enjoy baking your own Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels and share the joy with others!
