Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful homemade treat featuring a soft, chewy texture with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating. The dough is enriched with warm milk, brown sugar, and butter, then boiled briefly in a baking soda solution before baking to create that classic pretzel crust. Once baked, they are brushed with melted butter and generously coated in cinnamon sugar, making them perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups warm milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 1/2 cups flour (more or less as needed)
Baking Soda Bath
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- 3 cups warm water
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Wait until the mixture becomes bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Mix in the brown sugar, melted butter, one cup of flour, and salt into the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a smooth and slightly sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for about one hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Pretzel Shapes: Once risen, preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the dough into twelve equal pieces, rolling each piece into a long, skinny rope and twisting into traditional pretzel shapes.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: In a medium bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the warm water. Dip each pretzel into this baking soda solution, which helps create the characteristic pretzel crust.
- Bake Pretzels: Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 11 minutes or until the pretzels are golden brown.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon to create the coating mixture.
- Finish Pretzels: Brush each baked pretzel with melted butter, then dip or sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating. Serve warm for best taste.
Notes
- Warm milk and water should be around 100-110°F to properly activate yeast and dissolve baking soda.
- The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; adjust flour quantity as needed for the right consistency.
- Boiling/dipping the pretzels in baking soda water before baking is essential for the authentic pretzel crust and flavor.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days; reheat before serving.
- For a savory version, omit cinnamon sugar and sprinkle with coarse salt after baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American