Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a warm, sweet twist on a classic snack. Soft, chewy, and coated with a perfect layer of cinnamon and sugar, these pretzels make an ideal breakfast, snack, or dessert.

This recipe is simple, approachable, and perfect for family baking time. The dough is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, with a cinnamon-sugar coating that caramelizes lightly in the oven, giving each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and ¼ cup sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add melted butter and yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead dough: Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape pretzels: Divide dough into 8–10 portions. Roll each portion into a rope and twist into pretzel shapes.
Egg wash (optional): Brush pretzels lightly with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Cinnamon sugar coating: Mix ½ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. While pretzels are warm, sprinkle or brush with melted butter and coat generously with cinnamon sugar.
Serve: Enjoy warm, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tips for Perfect Soft Pretzels

Warm water: Ensures yeast activates properly for fluffy dough.
Kneading: Develops gluten, giving pretzels their chewy texture.
Cinnamon-sugar coating: Apply while pretzels are warm for better adhesion.
Storage: Best eaten fresh; warm in oven for 2–3 minutes if needed.

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle Pretzels: Drizzle melted chocolate over cinnamon-sugar pretzels for a decadent treat.
Glazed Sweet Pretzels: Use powdered sugar glaze instead of cinnamon-sugar coating.
Mini Pretzels: Make bite-sized pretzels for party platters or snacks.
Stuffed Pretzels: Fill with Nutella or cream cheese before baking for an indulgent version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.
Serve at breakfast with fruit or yogurt.
Perfect for bake sales, brunches, or casual dessert snacks.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Soft pretzels originated in Europe, with origins traced back to Germany as early as the 7th century. Traditionally savory, this sweet cinnamon-sugar twist became popular in the United States as a dessert snack, offering the perfect balance of soft, chewy dough and caramelized sugar.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store: Airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore softness.
Freeze: Freeze baked pretzels for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Provides a warm, comforting snack for family gatherings
Can be made with whole wheat flour for added fiber
Portion-controlled; easy to serve in bite-sized pieces