How to Prepare Sweet and Soft Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Sweet and Soft Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s something magical about the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon sugar pretzels baking in the oven. These delightful treats are not only mouthwatering but also bring a cozy vibe to any kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at making homemade pretzels for the first time, this simple guide will walk you through creating the perfect sweet and soft cinnamon sugar pretzels.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 and 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 and 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (additional for kneading)
• 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling the pretzels)
• 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing on pretzels before baking)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for the cinnamon sugar coating)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for dipping)

Preparing Your Dough:

1. Mix the Yeast: In a large bowl, gently stir the yeast into the warm water. Let it sit for about 1 minute until it starts to froth. This is how you know your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

2. Add Sugar and Salt: Stir in the salt and 1 tablespoon of sugar until everything is well combined.

3. Add Flour: Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, blending each addition thoroughly before adding the next. You should end up with a smooth, slightly sticky dough.

4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as necessary.

5. Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Shaping and Boiling the Pretzels:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Get your oven warmed up to 425°F (218°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Divide and Shape: Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20 inches) and shape it into a pretzel. Don’t worry about making them perfect – that’s part of the homemade charm!

3. Boil the Pretzels: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, which will help them develop that beautiful golden-brown color upon baking. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.

Baking and Coating:

1. Brush and Bake: Brush each boiled pretzel with the beaten egg, making sure to cover all sides. This will give your pretzels a shiny, crispy crust. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.

2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: While the pretzels are baking, mix the cup of granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon in a shallow dish.

3. Coat the Pretzels: As soon as the pretzels come out of the oven, dip each one into the melted butter, making sure they’re completely coated. Then, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well covered.

4. Enjoy! Congratulations, you’ve just made delicious sweet and soft cinnamon sugar pretzels! Let them cool for a few minutes before diving in – if you can resist.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pretzels:

• Yeast Temperature: Make sure your water isn’t too hot or too cold when activating the yeast. The ideal temperature helps it awaken and start working.

• Boiling is Key: Don’t skip the boiling step! It’s crucial for achieving that classic pretzel texture and flavor.

• Customize: Feel free to get creative with your pretzels. Try different shapes or add a little vanilla extract to your dough for an extra flavor boost.

These homemade sweet and soft cinnamon sugar pretzels are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re snuggling up with a warm blanket and a movie or looking for a fun baking project with kids, these pretzels are sure to bring smiles and sweet satisfaction to your day. Happy baking!