Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F); 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for yeast); 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 cup baking soda (for water bath); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

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There’s something irresistible about the soft, chewy texture of a warm pretzel—especially when it’s coated in buttery cinnamon sugar. These homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are a sweet twist on the classic snack, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat, a party platter, or just when I’m craving something freshly baked and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings the nostalgic feel of mall-style pretzels right into my kitchen. The dough is simple to work with, and the results are incredibly soft and fluffy on the inside with just the right touch of golden crispness on the outside. Brushing them with melted butter and coating them in cinnamon sugar adds a sweet, cozy flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, the aroma while baking is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Warm water
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Salt
Baking soda
Unsalted butter
Ground cinnamon

Directions

I start by activating the yeast in warm water with a bit of sugar until it becomes foamy.
Then, I mix in flour and salt to form a soft dough, knead it until smooth, and let it rise until doubled in size.
Once risen, I divide the dough, roll each piece into long ropes, and twist them into pretzel shapes.
I dip each shaped pretzel into a baking soda bath, which helps achieve that golden exterior.
I place the pretzels on a baking sheet and bake until they’re beautifully golden.
While still warm, I brush them generously with melted butter and toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 large soft pretzels.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour and 40 minutes

Variations

If I want a fun twist, I sometimes stuff the pretzels with cream cheese before shaping. I’ve also added a drizzle of vanilla glaze on top for an extra dessert-like finish. For a more subtle version, I’ll reduce the sugar and cinnamon coating for a less sweet treat. Mini pretzel bites also work great with this same dough—perfect for dipping.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I freeze them and reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes. To refresh the cinnamon sugar coating, I sometimes brush them again with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle fresh sugar on top after reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the pretzels soft after baking?

I make sure not to overbake them, and I store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight.

What’s the purpose of the baking soda bath?

It helps create the signature chewy crust and gives the pretzels that traditional golden brown color.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

I can, but I skip the blooming step and mix it directly with the flour, adjusting the liquid slightly if needed.

Do I have to use melted butter for the cinnamon sugar to stick?

Yes, I find that brushing with melted butter not only helps the sugar stick but also adds rich flavor.

Conclusion

These cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are a bakery-style treat I love making at home. With simple ingredients and just a bit of hands-on time, I get sweet, pillowy-soft pretzels that are always a hit. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated later, they bring a touch of comfort and sweetness to any moment.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels