Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; ½ cup lukewarm water; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm; 1 egg yolk (for egg wash); 2 tablespoons baking soda (for boiling water bath); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup cream cheese, room temperature; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a warm, freshly baked pretzel—especially when it’s coated in a rich cinnamon sugar blend. These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the ultimate homemade indulgence: soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and loaded with buttery, sweet flavor. They’re not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make at home. The dough is soft and pliable, yet it bakes into that signature chewy texture everyone loves in a pretzel. The cinnamon sugar coating elevates the flavor to dessert level, making these pretzels perfect for afternoon snacking, cozy brunches, or sweet party platters.

But the real magic happens when you dip them into the luscious cream cheese dip—a smooth and sweet contrast to the warm spices and buttery dough. Whether you’re baking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. It’s also a fun baking project that can be done with kids or friends, with room for creativity in shaping the pretzels. If you’ve ever wanted to replicate that soft, mall-style pretzel at home but with a sweeter twist, this is the recipe to try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture: These pretzels bake up soft on the inside with a slightly crisp, golden crust.
Sweet and Spiced Flavor: A buttery cinnamon sugar coating turns the classic pretzel into a dessert-style treat.
Delicious Cream Cheese Dip: The optional dip adds a creamy, tangy balance to the sweet coating.
Family-Friendly Activity: Making and twisting the dough is a fun hands-on experience for all ages.
Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for snacking, holiday gatherings, brunch spreads, or dessert tables.

Ingredients

For the Pretzels
All purpose flour
Kosher salt
Light brown sugar
Yeast
Water
Unsalted butter
Whole milk
Egg yolk
Baking soda

For the Cream Cheese Dip
Cream cheese
Unsalted butter
Confectioners’ sugar
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter

Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: Drizzle or dip half of each pretzel in melted chocolate after the cinnamon sugar coating.
Filled Pretzels: Add a sweet filling like Nutella or jam inside the dough before shaping into pretzels.
Mini Pretzel Bites: Cut the dough into bite-size pieces for easier snacking or party platters.
Savory Twist: Skip the cinnamon sugar and brush with butter and sea salt for a classic soft pretzel.
Maple Cream Cheese Dip: Swap vanilla extract for maple extract in the dip for a fall-inspired version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit until foamy, then add milk, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Let Rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Punch down the dough and divide into equal pieces. Roll each into a long rope and shape into classic pretzel forms.

Step 4: Boil in Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil. Drop each pretzel in briefly, then remove and place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

Brush each pretzel with egg yolk wash and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While still warm, brush the pretzels with melted butter and generously coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Dip

Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Mix in confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and cream until light and fluffy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use lukewarm water and milk to help activate the yeast properly.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it gives pretzels their signature chewy texture and helps the coating stick.
Brush with plenty of melted butter to ensure the cinnamon sugar adheres well.
Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving to help the flavors set.
If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface.

How to Serve

Serve these pretzels warm for the best texture and flavor. Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of cream cheese dip in the center. They pair well with coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, dessert, or a cozy brunch table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze uncoated, baked pretzels for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

To reheat, warm pretzels in a 300°F oven for about 5–8 minutes or until heated through. Reapply butter and cinnamon sugar if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works well. You can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

2. What if I don’t have whole milk?

You can substitute with 2% milk or even non-dairy milk, though the flavor may vary slightly.

3. How do I keep the pretzels soft after baking?

Store them in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving to restore softness.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

5. Is the baking soda bath necessary?

Yes, it’s essential for achieving that traditional pretzel texture and color.

6. Can I freeze the pretzels after baking?

Absolutely. Freeze them without the sugar coating and reheat when ready to serve.

7. How long should I knead the dough?

Knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

8. What kind of sugar is best for the coating?

Granulated sugar works best for a crisp cinnamon sugar texture.

9. Can I make these without the cream cheese dip?

Yes, they’re delicious on their own, but the dip adds a special touch.

10. What can I do if my dough is too dry?

Add a small amount of lukewarm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is soft and pliable.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. With their buttery cinnamon coating and optional creamy dip, they’re a standout treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether served fresh from the oven or made ahead for a special occasion, these soft pretzels bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia to every bite.