The aroma of cinnamon wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café where soft pretzels and sweet cream cheese dipped in sugary bliss reigned supreme. Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels—a delightful treat that marries the chewy goodness of a traditional pretzel with a sweet, crunchy topping. What’s more, these pretzels are surprisingly simple to make and require minimal prep time, making them perfect for a spontaneous snack or a crowd-pleasing party treat. The irresistible combination of flavors and textures will leave you and your guests reaching for more. Ready to give your taste buds a sweet surprise? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why Are These Pretzels So Irresistible?
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels deliver the perfect balance of flavors, featuring a scrumptious topping that will keep you coming back for more. Effortless to make, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, making it a great family activity. Versatile pairing options mean you can enjoy them with sweet or savory dips like chocolate sauce or spicy mustard. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to fast food that still feels indulgent! Whether for a cozy night in or a lively gathering, these pretzels are sure to steal the show! If you love simple yet delightful recipes, check out my Cloud Soft Condensed or try a refreshing Veggie Crunch Cucumber as a side!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzel Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water – Activates yeast when it’s about 110°F for optimal frothiness.
• Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Active Dry Yeast – The key leavening agent that makes your pretzels puff up beautifully.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and that classic chewy feel.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors throughout the dough.
• Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking during the dough’s rise period.
• Baking Soda – Gives pretzels their unique chewy crust when boiled before baking.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar – Adds extra sweetness for the dough.
For the Topping
• Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Sweetens the crunchy cinnamon topping perfectly.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star flavor that defines the “Cinnamon Crunch” experience.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Helps achieve a golden, crisp crust while adding rich flavor.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Cream Cheese (softened) – Rich and creamy base for a delightful dipping experience.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the dipping sauce for a luscious finish.
• Heavy Cream – Adds lightness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – A splash of flavor depth to enhance the dip.
These Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels are designed to tantalize your taste buds and bring joy to every bite. Enjoy crafting these warm, delicious treats from the comfort of your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F), 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Lightly grease a bowl with cooking spray and place the dough inside, covering it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 24 inches in length. Create a pretzel shape by twisting the ends together and bringing them back down to the center, pressing them to seal. Place the shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Boil
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and stir in 2/3 cup of baking soda carefully. Once boiling, add the shaped pretzels one at a time, boiling each for about 30 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet. This step ensures that your Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels develop that chewy crust!
Step 5: Baking
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each boiled pretzel generously with melted unsalted butter. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon and sprinkle it generously over the pretzels. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant, keeping an eye on their color.
Step 6: Prepare Dipping Sauce
While the pretzels bake, make the cream cheese dipping sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Whip with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy, creating a delicious accompaniment for your warm Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
- Perfect Water Temp: Ensure your warm water is around 110°F. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, leading to flat pretzels.
- Don’t Skip Boiling: This crucial step gives your Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels that signature chewy texture. Skipping it may result in soft pretzels instead of the desired crunch.
- Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes. This develops the gluten needed for a delightful chew.
- Sugar Variations: For a unique twist, try using flavored cream cheese in the dipping sauce, like cinnamon or chocolate, to complement the pretzels beautifully.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the pretzels in the oven; 12–15 minutes is ideal for a golden brown finish. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate the pretzels in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back their chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked shaped pretzels on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen pretzels from the freezer at 425°F for about 12–15 minutes without thawing. Perfectly warm, delightful, and ready to dip!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and letting it rise. After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and boiling. Additionally, the dipping sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring a smooth finish when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to give the dipping sauce a quick stir before serving to keep it creamy and delightful. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of these Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
Bring warmth and delight to your snack table with these irresistible combinations that elevate the experience of each soft, cinnamon-kissed bite.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich, cheesy goodness creates a comforting contrast to the sweet pretzels, perfect for a cozy evening.
- Spicy Mustard Dip: This tangy and fragrant dip cuts through the sweetness, offering a delightful balance that will awaken your taste buds.
- Roasted Veggie Platter: Bright, roasted vegetables add a fresh, earthy element that complements the indulgent pretzels perfectly, giving texture contrast.
- Apple Sauce: The smooth and sweet apple sauce provides a fruity note that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon flavor of the pretzels.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of cocoa not only enhances the sweet notes but also adds a decadent touch to your snack time.
Serve these together at your next gathering, and watch how everyone’s eyes light up with joy as they indulge in the flavors!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzel Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these pretzels your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits.
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Savory Option: Skip the cinnamon sugar topping entirely and sprinkle pretzels with garlic salt or everything bagel seasoning for a deliciously savory twist.
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Flavored Dips: Instead of cream cheese, try pairing with a rich chocolate sauce or tangy spicy mustard for a delightful variety.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these pretzels gluten-free; just be sure to check your dough consistency during mixing.
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More Cinnamon: For a more intense cinnamon flavor, add a teaspoon or two of cinnamon directly into the dough before kneading.
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Cheesy Pretzels: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the dough for an extra cheesy treat that pairs wonderfully with beer!
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: After shaping, roll each pretzel log in a mix of cinnamon and sugar before twisting for an even sweeter experience.
Have fun experimenting with these variations! You might also enjoy serving them alongside a light and refreshing Crunchy Cabbage Carrot salad to balance out their sweetness. No matter how you personalize them, these pretzels are sure to be a hit!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for these pretzels?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for yeast that is fresh and active, preferably not past its expiration date. For sugars, opt for granulated sugar and light brown sugar that are free from clumps. Always use flour that’s been stored properly—you want it to be dry and free of moisture.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels?
To keep your pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 4 days; just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their delightful chewiness.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels? If so, how?
Certainly! Before baking, freeze the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet for about 1 hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes, straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very frustrating, I know! If your dough isn’t rising, check that your water is at the proper temperature (about 110°F) and that your yeast is fresh. If you suspect the yeast is inactive, consider starting over with new yeast. Also, be sure you’re allowing the dough to rise in a warm spot; drafts can prevent proper rising. If it still doesn’t work, kneading it again for 1-2 minutes can sometimes bring it back!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Indeed! This recipe contains ingredients that may trigger allergies, such as gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the cream cheese. If you have gluten sensitivity, try using a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, consider using non-dairy cream cheese alternatives or explore different dips that cater to various dietary needs. Always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements!
How can I modify the flavors in the Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize the flavor of your pretzels by substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. For those who enjoy a savory twist, omit the cinnamon sugar topping altogether and sprinkle the pretzels with garlic salt or everything bagel seasoning before baking. The dipping sauce can also be adapted by using flavored cream cheese, such as cinnamon or chocolate, to enhance your pretzel experience!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels That Dazzle Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add all-purpose flour and kosher salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Grease a bowl with cooking spray and let the dough rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 8 pieces. Roll into ropes, shape into pretzels, and place on a baking sheet.
- Boil 10 cups of water with baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds and return to the baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Brush each pretzel with melted butter, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.