Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

A sweet‑soft pretzel experience you’ll want to share. Snacks .

Fluffy cinnamon‑sugar pretzels: sweet, soft, and wonderfully comforting.

Published: February 24, 2026
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Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures
Cinnamon‑sugar pretzels trace their roots to European bakery traditions, where dough was twisted into knots and dusted with sweet spices for festive occasions. Over time, the simplicity of the dough met the comforting allure of cinnamon, creating a snack that bridges generations. This treat is often enjoyed at fairs, markets, and family gatherings, embodying both celebration and home‑cooked warmth.

Why You'll Love It

  • - Soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth
  • - Sweet cinnamon sugar coating that isn’t overwhelming
  • - Quick to make, perfect for busy mornings
  • - Versatile – serve plain or with a drizzle of glaze

Absolutely delightful – my kids can’t stop asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredient Guide

  • All‑purpose flour: Provides the structure; sift to avoid lumps and ensure a light crumb.
  • Active dry yeast: Creates the gentle rise; proof in warm water for a fluffy interior.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.
  • Cinnamon: Choose fresh ground cinnamon for the most fragrant spice.
  • Sugar: Balances the spice; fine granules dissolve quickly on the warm pretzels.
  • Milk: A splash of milk adds tenderness and a subtle sweetness.

Complete Cooking Process

  • Ingredient Readiness:

    Measure flour, dissolve yeast in warm water, and soften butter; having everything at room temperature speeds the rise.

  • Flavor Development:

    Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rest; the gentle fermentation builds a delicate flavor.

  • Texture Control:

    Shape each piece into a soft pretzel knot, ensuring the dough isn’t too thin, which keeps the interior moist.

  • Finishing Touches:

    Brush baked pretzels with melted butter, then coat generously with cinnamon sugar while still warm.

  • Serving Timing:

    Serve immediately for the best softness, or keep warm in a low oven for up to 15 minutes.

  • Pro Tips

    • Use a kitchen towel to cover the dough while it rises – this prevents a skin from forming.
    • If you like a little crunch, bake the pretzels a minute longer.
    • A light drizzle of honey after baking adds a glossy finish.

    Well, those little adjustments can transform a simple snack into a memorable treat. I’ve found that letting the pretzels rest for a minute after brushing with butter lets the cinnamon sugar settle perfectly, giving each bite a balanced sweetness. It’s those quiet moments in the kitchen that make cooking feel like a gentle conversation with yourself.

Cooking Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

The essence of the dish:

Soft dough, buttery richness, and a fragrant cinnamon‑sugar kiss create a snack that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

A fun fact or historical angle:

In medieval fairs, pretzel shapes symbolized arms crossed in prayer; the sweet coating was a later addition from the spice trade.

Flavor or sensory focus:

You’ll notice the warm aroma of cinnamon first, followed by a buttery melt that yields a lightly crisp exterior and a tender, airy center.

You Must Know

  • Don't over‑mix – it can make the pretzels dense
  • Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes
  • Coat while hot for best adherence

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I freeze the pretzels?

Yes, freeze them after baking on a tray, then transfer to a zip‑lock bag. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

→ What if I don’t have yeast?

You can use baking powder for a quicker rise, but the texture will be slightly more cake‑like.

→ Can I use whole‑wheat flour?

Absolutely – substitute half the all‑purpose flour with whole‑wheat for a nuttier flavor.

→ How do I make them gluten‑free?

Use a gluten‑free flour blend and ensure the yeast is certified gluten‑free.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for three days.

→ Can I add toppings?

Feel free to drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle toasted nuts after the cinnamon sugar coating.

Chef's Tips

If you prefer a richer taste, add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough.,For a festive twist, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg with the cinnamon sugar.,Use a silicone brush for butter to avoid excess oil.

Nutrition Facts

per serving

260

Calories

6g

Protein

38g

Carbs

8g

Fat

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 350mg

Taste Profile

🍯 Sweet
Medium
🧂 Salty
Low
🌶️ Spicy
None
🍋 Sour
None
🍖 Umami
Low

Warm, sweet, buttery comfort

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives

All‑purpose flour Whole‑wheat flour

Use half whole‑wheat for a nuttier flavor; may need a bit more liquid.

Butter Coconut oil

Gives a subtle coconut aroma; keep it melted and warm.

Recipe Variations

Try these delicious twists on the original

Spicy Version

Add a pinch of cayenne and a drizzle of sriracha for a subtle kick.

Mediterranean Style

Replace cinnamon sugar with a mixture of za’atar and olive oil, then top with crumbled feta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results

  • Skipping the rise – results in dense pretzels.
  • Coating after cooling – sugar won’t stick well.
  • Over‑baking – makes the pretzels hard rather than soft.

Meal Prep & Storage

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough a day ahead, let it rise, shape the pretzels, and refrigerate; bake when ready.

Leftover Ideas

Reheat gently in a skillet with a dab of butter to restore softness.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this with...

A cup of hot chai or coffee Fresh fruit salad with citrus dressing Lightly whipped cream for dipping

Cooking Timeline

0-5 min

Proof yeast and gather dry ingredients.

5-15 min

Mix and knead dough until smooth.

15-60 min

First rise – dough doubles in size.

60-70 min

Divide, shape pretzels, and let rest.

70-85 min

Bake, butter, and coat with cinnamon sugar.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Recipe

Warm, fluffy cinnamon sugar soft pretzels that feel like a cozy hug on a chilly morning – perfect for a leisurely breakfast or an easy snack.

Author: Lily_Harper

Timing

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

12 Minutes

Total Time

27 Minutes

Recipe Details

Category: Snacks
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 4 Servings Servings
Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Dough

  • 01 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 02 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 03 1 tbsp sugar
  • 04 3 cups all‑purpose flour
  • 05 1 tsp salt
  • 06 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 07 1/4 cup milk

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

  • 01 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 02 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 03 3 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Step 01

In a bowl combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar; let sit 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 02

Stir in flour, salt, melted butter, milk, and the remaining sugar; knead 8‑10 minutes until smooth.

Step 03

Cover dough, let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 04

Punch down dough, divide into 12 pieces, roll each into a rope, and form pretzel shapes.

Step 05

Place pretzels on a parchment sheet, let rest 10 minutes while you preheat oven to 425°F.

Step 06

Bake pretzels 12‑15 minutes, until golden; brush immediately with melted butter.

Step 07

Mix cinnamon and sugar, then toss warm pretzels in the mixture until fully coated.

Notes & Tips

  • 1 If you prefer a richer taste, add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough.
  • 2 For a festive twist, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg with the cinnamon sugar.
  • 3 Use a silicone brush for butter to avoid excess oil.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Stand mixer or sturdy wooden spoon

  • Baking sheet

  • Parchment paper

  • Pastry brush

Must-Know Tips

  • Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give each pretzel space to expand.
  • Let the dough rest after shaping; it relaxes gluten for a softer bite.
  • Taste the cinnamon sugar mixture before coating; adjust sweetness as desired.

Professional Secrets

  • Room temperature butter adheres better to the hot pretzels.
  • A brief steam burst in the oven creates a glossy finish.
  • Proofing the dough in a slightly warm oven ensures consistent rise.
Lily_Harper

Recipe by

Lily_Harper

From crispy bites to soft nibbles, I’m all about snack-time happiness made simple and delicious.

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