Few things beat the irresistible combination of soft, warm dough coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a bakery-style treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With their pillowy interior, golden crust, and flavorful coating, these pretzels are perfect for snacking, parties, or a cozy baking session on the weekend.

Inspired by classic mall pretzels, this recipe takes the traditional chewy pretzel and adds a delightful twist with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar. The dough is simple and forgiving, and the pretzels are boiled briefly in a baking soda bath before baking—a crucial step that gives them their signature texture and color.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or warmed up the next day, Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels strike a balance between indulgence and comfort. Dip them in cream cheese icing, enjoy them plain, or pair with coffee for a sweet pick-me-up. The satisfaction of twisting the dough and smelling cinnamon fill your kitchen is just as enjoyable as eating the finished product. Once you try these homemade soft pretzels, you may never go back to store-bought versions again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Soft and Fluffy Texture

These pretzels come out pillowy and tender inside, with a slightly crisp outside.

2. Sweet, Spiced Flavor

The cinnamon sugar coating is warm, comforting, and crowd-pleasing.

3. Fun to Make

Twisting the dough into classic pretzel shapes is a fun, hands-on activity.

4. Great for Sharing

Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a sweet gift for friends and family.

5. Versatile

Customize with different sugars, glazes, or dips to make it your own.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Instant yeast
Warm water
Granulated sugar
Salt
Butter
Baking soda
Cinnamon
Brown sugar or white sugar (for coating)
Optional: cream cheese or vanilla glaze for dipping

Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

Dip half of the baked pretzels in melted chocolate and let set for an extra indulgent treat.

Stuffed Pretzels

Add a layer of Nutella or cream cheese before shaping and baking for a surprise filling.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and a sugar that’s not processed with bone char.

Glazed Pretzels

Drizzle with a powdered sugar icing or caramel sauce after baking.

Mini Pretzel Bites

Cut the dough into small pieces instead of twisting into full pretzels for bite-sized snacks.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy. Add flour, salt, and melted butter, then mix and knead until a smooth dough forms. Let rise until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Pretzels

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

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Boil water in a large pot and add baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel into the bath for 20–30 seconds, then remove and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Pretzels

Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, typically 12–15 minutes.

Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm, brush pretzels with melted butter and generously coat in cinnamon sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use warm, not hot, water to activate the yeast without killing it.
Boil before baking for that classic chewy pretzel texture.
Brush with butter right after baking to help the sugar stick and boost flavor.
Use fresh cinnamon for a more aromatic and intense flavor.
Let dough rise fully for fluffier, lighter pretzels.

How to Serve

Serve warm with a side of cream cheese icing or vanilla glaze.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot cider.
Sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar just before serving for added sweetness.
Slice and use as a fun base for dessert sandwiches (try ice cream in the middle!).
Offer as a sweet addition to a brunch spread or dessert board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat slightly in the microwave before serving.

Freezing

Freeze baked pretzels (without sugar coating) in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before brushing with butter and cinnamon sugar.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate after the first rise and bring to room temperature before shaping.

2. What kind of yeast should I use?

Instant or active dry yeast both work. Adjust rising time accordingly.

3. Why do I need to use a baking soda bath?

It creates the distinctive chewy texture and golden crust of soft pretzels.

4. Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?

Absolutely. They’re delicious with just butter or even a savory topping.

5. What’s the best way to reheat them?

A quick bake in the oven or a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick.

6. How do I get an even sugar coating?

Brush generously with butter while warm and roll in a shallow dish of cinnamon sugar.

7. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. Try a 50/50 mix for balance.

8. Can kids help make this recipe?

Definitely! Kids can help roll ropes, twist shapes, and coat in sugar.

9. Why are my pretzels tough?

Overbaking or too much flour can cause this. Be careful not to over-knead or overbake.

10. What’s the best dip for these pretzels?

Cream cheese frosting, chocolate sauce, or a vanilla glaze are all great options.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the ultimate comfort treat—soft, warm, and full of sweet flavor with just the right amount of cinnamon spice. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and bring a little bakery magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. So roll up your sleeves, twist some dough, and enjoy the cozy, homemade goodness of these irresistible pretzels.