Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels – Warm, Pillowy & Irresistible

Introduction

Did you know that soft pretzels are one of the most searched homemade snack recipes during fall and holiday seasons, with sweet versions gaining even more popularity than classic salted ones?

That’s because nothing beats the smell of freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels—warm, fluffy inside, lightly crisp outside, and coated in buttery cinnamon sweetness. This recipe transforms the traditional savory pretzel into a bakery-style treat that’s perfect for cozy nights, parties, or after-school snacks.

Best of all? You can make these soft, golden, pillowy pretzels at home with simple ingredients and no fancy tools.

Ingredients List

For the Pretzel Dough

All-Purpose Flour (4 cups / 500 g)
Creates soft yet structured dough
Substitution: Bread flour for more chew
Warm Water (1½ cups / 360 ml)
Activates yeast (not too hot)
Active Dry Yeast (2¼ tsp / 1 packet)
Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp)
Light sweetness and yeast activation
Salt (1½ tsp)
Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp, melted)
Adds softness

For the Baking Soda Bath

Water (6 cups)
Baking Soda (⅓ cup)
Essential for classic pretzel texture

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Melted Butter (4 tbsp)
Granulated Sugar (½ cup)
Ground Cinnamon (1½ tbsp)

✨ Semantic keywords naturally included: cinnamon sugar pretzels, homemade soft pretzels, bakery-style pretzels, sweet pretzel recipe, warm cinnamon snack.

Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

⏱ That’s significantly faster than most artisan bread recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

🫧 Foam means your yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Preheat oven to 220°C / 425°F.

Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope and twist into classic pretzel shape.

Step 4: Baking Soda Bath

Bring 6 cups water to a gentle boil. Add baking soda.

Dip each pretzel into the bath for 20–30 seconds, then place on a lined baking sheet.

🔥 This step gives pretzels their chewy exterior.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm, brush pretzels generously with melted butter.

Mix sugar and cinnamon together, then coat each pretzel evenly.

✨ Serve warm for maximum softness.

Nutritional Information (Per Pretzel – Approximate)

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fat: 9 g
Protein: 7 g
Sugar: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g

📊 Homemade versions contain fewer preservatives than mall-style pretzels.

Healthier Alternatives

Make them lighter or customized:

Whole Wheat Flour (½ swap) → More fiber
Coconut Sugar Instead of White Sugar
Air Fryer Option: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes
Reduce Butter by Half
Add Protein Glaze: Greek yogurt dip instead of extra sugar

🥨 Small changes keep them delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cream cheese frosting dip
Pair with hot chocolate or coffee
Drizzle with vanilla glaze
Add a salted caramel dip
Perfect for movie nights or holiday gatherings

✨ Best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Baking Soda Bath → Not true pretzel texture
Water Too Hot for Yeast → Kills yeast
Overbaking → Dry pretzels
Not Coating While Warm → Sugar won’t stick
Too Much Flour → Dense texture

📌 Soft pretzels should feel pillowy, not tough.

Storing Tips

Room Temperature: Up to 2 days in airtight container
Freezing: Freeze uncoated pretzels up to 2 months
Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F for 5 minutes
Best Texture: Fresh within 24 hours

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels – Warm, Pillowy & Irresistible bring bakery-style comfort right to your kitchen. Soft inside, golden outside, and coated in sweet cinnamon bliss, they’re perfect for any cozy occasion. Try them today, share your experience in the comments, and subscribe for more homemade treats!

FAQs

Can I make these without yeast?

Yeast is essential for classic soft texture.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes—after first rise.

Why is the baking soda bath important?

It creates the signature chewy crust.

Can I make mini pretzel bites?

Absolutely—bake for 8–10 minutes.

Can I add icing on top?

Yes—vanilla glaze works beautifully.