Imagine biting into a warm, golden pretzel that's crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated with a mouthwatering cinnamon-sugar blend that'll transport you straight to bakery heaven. These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels are not just a snack - they're a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for more! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises bakery-quality pretzels right from your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 pretzels
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches long.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them onto the bottom of the U.
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
- Place the boiled pretzels on the prepared baking sheets. Brush each pretzel generously with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered pretzels.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pretzels are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips
- Use warm (not hot) water when activating yeast to ensure proper rising
- Let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm area for the best texture
- Don't skip the baking soda bath - it gives pretzels their signature golden-brown color and chewy exterior
- Brush pretzels generously with melted butter for a rich, glossy finish
- Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately after buttering for maximum flavor adherence
- Let pretzels cool slightly before serving to allow the crust to set perfectly
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
