Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Easy and Tasty Treat

If you love sweet and soft treats, you’ll adore these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels! Imagine a warm pretzel, dusted in cinnamon sugar, fresh from your oven. This easy recipe makes it simple to enjoy a tasty snack at home. Follow my step-by-step guide, and you'll have a treat worth sharing. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful snack!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

- ½ cup baking soda

- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

- ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)

- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Detailed Measurements

- Warm Water: Use 1 ½ cups, heated to about 110°F.

- Granulated Sugar: Add 2 tablespoons for the yeast mix and ½ cup for coating.

- Active Dry Yeast: Measure out 2 teaspoons to help the dough rise.

- All-Purpose Flour: You will need 4 cups to create the dough.

- Salt: Just 1 teaspoon adds flavor to the dough.

- Unsalted Butter: Melt ¼ cup for richness.

- Baking Soda: Use ½ cup to create the boiling solution.

- Beaten Egg: One large egg is enough for an egg wash.

- Ground Cinnamon: Two tablespoons mix with sugar for a sweet touch.

- Coarse Sea Salt: Sprinkle on top for extra flavor.

Suggested Brands or Types

- Flour: King Arthur or Gold Medal are great choices for all-purpose flour.

- Yeast: Saf-instant or Fleischmann's brands work well for active dry yeast.

- Unsalted Butter: Land O'Lakes or Challenge brands provide good quality.

- Cinnamon: McCormick or Penzeys offer excellent ground cinnamon.

- Coarse Sea Salt: Look for Maldon or Diamond Crystal for a nice finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Activating the Yeast

To start, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Stir it gently. Let this sit for about 5 minutes. You will see bubbles form. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work.

Preparing the Dough

In a big bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the middle. Pour in the frothy yeast and melted butter. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Kneading Process

Now, transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead it for 5 to 7 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add a bit more flour.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Turn it to coat all sides. Cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size.

Preheating the Oven

While your dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup later.

Boiling the Pretzels

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the baking soda. Be careful, it will bubble up.

Shaping the Pretzels

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope of about 24 inches. Twist and shape it into a pretzel.

Egg Wash and Seasoning

Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg. This gives a nice shiny finish. Then, sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for extra flavor.

Baking the Pretzels

Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes. They should be golden brown and puffed. Let them cool for a bit on a wire rack.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

For soft pretzels, texture is key. You want a chewy inside and a golden outside. To get this, knead the dough well. Knead for about 7 minutes until it’s smooth. If it feels sticky, add a bit more flour. After boiling, the dough will puff up and create that chewy bite we love.

Notes on Flavor Enhancements

Cinnamon sugar is a classic, but you can mix things up. For a twist, add a bit of nutmeg to the sugar. You can also try flavored extracts. A few drops of vanilla or almond extract can add depth. If you want a savory option, sprinkle garlic powder or herbs on top instead.

Timing Considerations

Timing is everything in this recipe. Letting the dough rise for an hour is crucial. Don’t rush this step. When boiling, keep an eye on the clock. Thirty seconds is enough. Too long, and the pretzels get tough. Bake them until golden brown to ensure a perfect finish. Adjust your baking time based on your oven; every oven is a bit different.

Variations

Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

To make vegan cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, swap a few ingredients. Use non-dairy milk instead of water. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for sweetness. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Omit the egg wash or use a mixture of almond milk and a splash of vinegar for a nice glaze. These swaps keep the pretzels soft and tasty.

Gluten-Free Options

For gluten-free pretzels, use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for better texture. The rest of the process stays the same. The baking soda bath is key to achieving that classic pretzel flavor. Be sure to monitor baking time as gluten-free dough may bake faster.

Alternative Toppings

You can get creative with toppings. Try adding coarse sea salt for a savory touch. You can also sprinkle on everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist. For a sweet option, drizzle melted chocolate after baking. Each topping gives a new flavor and makes your pretzels unique.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Pretzels

To keep your pretzels fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. Just remember, refrigeration can change their texture a bit.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat pretzels, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pretzels on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them soft. You can also use the microwave, but they may get a bit chewy. Heat them for 10-15 seconds for best results.

Freezing Pretzels

If you want to freeze pretzels, let them cool completely first. Wrap each pretzel in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven for a warm, tasty treat.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it first. Mix it with warm water and sugar. Wait for it to become frothy. This step is key for good rise. Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients, which saves time.

How do I know when my pretzels are done baking?

Check the color and shape. They should be golden brown and puffy. A nice, shiny crust means they are ready. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the inside. It should read at least 190°F.

What can I serve with cinnamon sugar soft pretzels?

These pretzels are great on their own. But you can serve them with a sweet dip. Cream cheese icing or chocolate sauce works well. You might also try warm caramel for a fun twist.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Make the dough and let it rise. After rising, cover it well and chill it. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it warm up before shaping and boiling.

Making pretzels at home is easy with the right steps and tips. We covered key ingredients, detailed instructions, and great variations. From vegan options to gluten-free choices, there's something for everyone. Storing and reheating them properly keeps your pretzels fresh. Remember, practice makes perfect! Enjoy creating tasty pretzels that you and your loved ones will love. Happy baking!