There’s something incredibly nostalgic and comforting about warm, soft pretzels dusted in cinnamon sugar. I remember the first time I made these at home—my kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon, and the golden, puffy pretzels were too tempting to resist. Growing up, I often bought cinnamon pretzels from local bakeries, but nothing ever compared to the taste of homemade. That’s why I decided to recreate my own bakery-style version: soft, pillowy, and generously coated in buttery cinnamon sugar. And I promise you, they’re even better than what you’ll find in stores.
You will love this recipe for so many reasons. These pretzels are incredibly soft and fluffy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and covered in the perfect balance of sweet cinnamon and sugar. They make a great treat for any occasion—brunch, parties, school snacks, or simply when you’re craving something cozy and delicious. They’re also a fun baking project that yields rewarding results every time.
Another reason to try this recipe? It’s so versatile. You can shape the dough into classic pretzels, pretzel bites, or even cinnamon rolls. If you’re making them for kids, they’ll enjoy twisting the dough into fun shapes before baking. You can also switch up the topping—add a cream cheese glaze, drizzle with vanilla icing, or keep it simple with just the cinnamon sugar coating.
And did I mention how affordable these are to make? You likely already have all the ingredients in your pantry—flour, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and yeast. There’s no need for specialty items, and the recipe makes a generous batch that you can share or freeze for later.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these irresistible cinnamon sugar soft pretzels:
Ingredients for the Recipe:
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1 ½ cups warm water (about 43°C)
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1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup baking soda (for boiling solution)
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6 cups water (for boiling solution)
For the topping:
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4 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE
How to Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels – Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these bakery-style cinnamon sugar soft pretzels is simpler than you might think. The dough is straightforward, the process is beginner-friendly, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly fluffy and golden pretzels every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is how you know the yeast is activated.
Next, add the melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead it on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes. You want a soft, smooth dough that’s slightly tacky but not sticky.
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour. The dough should double in size.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a clean surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rope, about 45–50 cm long. Form each rope into a pretzel shape: make a U-shape, cross the ends over each other twice, then press the tips into the bottom of the U. This shape might take a bit of practice, but it’s part of the fun.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath
Preheat your oven to 220°C and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda. Stir to dissolve—it will bubble up slightly, so use a deep pot to avoid spills.
Using a slotted spatula, dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 20–30 seconds. This step is crucial—it helps develop that signature chewy exterior and golden brown crust.
Place each boiled pretzel onto the prepared baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake the Pretzels
Once all pretzels are on the trays, bake them in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes. They should puff up beautifully and turn a light golden color. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes so they don’t overbrown.
Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the pretzels are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Dip or sprinkle the buttered pretzels with the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
The warm butter helps the sugar stick, and the contrast of the fluffy interior with the sweet, crunchy coating is absolutely divine.
Quick and Easy Tips:
– You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the fridge overnight for added flavor.
– If you’re short on time, skip the shaping and cut the dough into bite-sized pieces—perfect for snacking.
– These pretzels are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for 5 minutes to revive the softness.
Customizable Options:
These pretzels are extremely adaptable. Instead of cinnamon sugar, try topping them with:
– Vanilla glaze for extra sweetness
– Powdered sugar dusting
– Melted chocolate drizzle
– Maple-cinnamon icing
You can also stuff them with a bit of cream cheese filling before shaping, turning them into an indulgent dessert-style treat.
Why This Recipe is Popular:
Cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are loved by many because they combine everything people enjoy—soft bread, sweet flavor, and bakery-level results. They’re perfect for both kids and adults, easy enough for weekend baking, and impressive enough to serve to guests.
Families enjoy making them together, and they make a beautiful addition to brunch spreads or dessert tables. Because they use everyday pantry staples, you won’t need to make a special trip to the store.
Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels | Sweet, Fluffy, Bakery-style Recipe
These cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are sweet, fluffy, and full of cozy bakery-style charm. Made with simple pantry ingredients and topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert. Whether shaped traditionally or as bites, they deliver a soft, chewy interior and a golden, delicious exterior.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (approx. 43°C)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Baking Soda Bath:
- 6 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- 4 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix, then knead for 6–8 minutes until dough is soft and smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Punch down dough, divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 45–50 cm long. Shape into classic pretzel form.
- Preheat oven to 220°C. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Boil 6 cups water with ½ cup baking soda.
- Dip each pretzel in the baking soda bath for 20–30 seconds. Remove with slotted spatula. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Brush warm pretzels with melted butter. In a bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Coat pretzels evenly in the mixture. Serve warm or store once fully cooled.
Notes
You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise for better flavor.
Skip pretzel shaping for bite-sized treats.
Reheat baked pretzels in the oven for 5 minutes to restore softness.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After kneading, cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.
2. Do I need to use a baking soda bath?
Absolutely. The baking soda bath is what gives these pretzels their traditional chewy crust and golden color. It’s a key step you shouldn’t skip.
3. Can I freeze these pretzels?
Yes. Once baked and cooled (before coating in butter and sugar), wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven, then brush with butter and add cinnamon sugar before serving.
4. What if I don’t have active dry yeast?
You can use instant yeast instead. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients before adding the wet.
5. How can I make them vegan?
Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The results will still be fluffy and delicious.
6. Can I make mini pretzels or bites?
Yes. Cut smaller portions of dough and adjust the baking time to 8–10 minutes for pretzel bites.