There’s a special kind of joy that comes when you pull a warm batch of homemade Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels from the oven. The blend of cinnamon and sugar wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. It’s moments like these that remind us why we get in the kitchen in the first place: to create, to indulge, and to share comfort with those we love.
I stumbled upon this pretzel recipe one rainy afternoon while flipping through an old cookbook, and I’ve been hooked ever since. These soft, chewy pretzels are not only a delightful snack but also an underrated gem for gatherings. Whether you’re crafting a snack for the family movie night or impressing friends with a tasty twist on a classic, these pretzels are sure to please.
With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can transform simple pantry staples into a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making these irresistible Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels that will undoubtedly become a new favorite!
Why are Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels a must-try?
Homemade joy: There’s something magical about crafting these pretzels from scratch, filling your home with an inviting aroma.
Irresistible flavor: The sweet cinnamon and sugar topping creates a delightful contrast with the soft pretzel base.
Great for gatherings: Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a cozy snack, these pretzels will impress everyone.
Simple ingredients: Utilizing basic pantry staples makes this recipe accessible and budget-friendly.
Fun to make: Shaping the pretzels becomes a fun activity, especially with kids or friends involved in the process.
Bake and enjoy: They bake to a perfect golden brown in just a short time, delivering instant satisfaction.
Once you try making these pretzels, you’ll be hooked and ready to experiment with different toppings!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels Ingredients
For the Pretzel Dough
• Active dry yeast – This is the key to achieving that perfect rise and chewiness in your Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels.
• Warm water – Activate the yeast with warm water to ensure a fluffy texture in your pretzels.
• Granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to help the yeast bloom beautifully.
• Bob’s Red Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour – Using high-quality flour gives the pretzels a delightful structure.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• Vegan butter – Keeps your dough moist and adds a rich flavor.
For the Topping
• Bob’s Red Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour – Used to achieve the right consistency in the topping.
• Brown sugar – For a deeper sweetness and a lovely caramel note when baked.
• Cinnamon – The star ingredient that brings warmth and an irresistible aroma to your pretzels.
• Cold vegan butter – Helps create that desired crunchy texture on the outside.
For the Baking
• Unsweetened plant milk – Brushing the pretzels with this gives a beautiful golden finish once baked.
• Water – Combined with baking soda for boiling the pretzels, creating that iconic chewy texture.
• Baking soda – Essential for that distinctive pretzel taste and texture, so don’t skip it!
For the Glaze
• Organic powdered sugar – Adds a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the cinnamon topping.
• Unsweetened plant milk – Used to create a creamy glaze; adjust for desired consistency.
• Vanilla extract – A splash enhances the sweetness and overall flavor profile of your pretzels.
Gather these ingredients, and get ready to create a batch of delightful Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels that will wow your taste buds!
How to Make Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
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Combine ingredients: In a bowl, add yeast, warm water, and sugar. Mix with a wooden spoon and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom, creating a bubbly mixture that signals the yeast is ready.
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Mix dough: Add flour, salt, and melted vegan butter to the bowl, then use the hook attachment on low speed. Gradually increase to medium for 5 minutes, mixing until the dough transforms into a smooth, homogenous ball.
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Let it rise: Coat a large bowl with a bit of oil, then place the dough inside. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the topping: For the topping, combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Use your fingers to pinch the cold butter into the flour-sugar mixture until it’s well-coated with a crumbly texture. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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Shape the pretzels: Once the dough has risen, remove it and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Stretch each piece into a rope about 26 inches long and twist it into a classic pretzel shape.
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Boil pretzels: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through, then place them on the baking sheet.
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Bake the pretzels: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Brush each shaped pretzel with unsweetened plant milk and generously coat with the topping mixture before baking.
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Cool and serve: Bake for 12-15 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Allow them to cool on a rack before serving, letting the flavors fully develop.
Optional: Serve with a warm cinnamon glaze for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels?
There’s something magical about pairing warm, soft pretzels with delicious accompaniments that elevate your snacking experience.
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Creamy Cheese Dip: The rich, velvety texture of cheese dip pairs beautifully with the soft pretzels, creating a savory bite with each dip.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and vibrant fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pretzels, balancing the flavors on your palate.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: The warmth of spiced hot chocolate adds a cozy touch, perfect for enjoying alongside your Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels on a chilly day.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience that’s both indulgent and comforting.
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Honey Mustard Sauce: The tangy sweetness of honey mustard offers a zesty dip option that beautifully complements the cinnamon flavor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist that contrasts the warm pretzels with cold creaminess.
These pairings will not only enhance your Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels but also create a full, rounded meal that delights the senses!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
- Accurate measurements: Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly. Scoop and level it to avoid dense pretzels that lack the desired chewiness.
- Bloom the yeast: Be patient when blooming the yeast; ensuring it froths will lead to soft pretzels. If it doesn’t bubble, your yeast may be dead.
- Don’t skip boiling: Boiling each pretzel in baking soda water adds that characteristic pretzel flavor and chewy texture. Skipping this step will result in softer, less traditional pretzels.
- Topping technique: After shaping, don’t rush the topping. Make sure to coat each pretzel generously for maximum cinnamon crunch flavor!
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary. Once they’re golden brown, take them out to avoid overbaking!
- Serve warm: These Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, as the warm glaze and crunchy topping are simply irresistible!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and letting it rise, then cover it well with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The topping can also be made ahead; simply combine the ingredients and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape the pretzels, boil them as directed, and bake. With these steps, you’ll have warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven pretzels with just as much flavor and delight, saving you time on those busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels
Room Temperature: Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, wrap the pretzels individually in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze pretzels in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside.
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful pretzels!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously soft texture. Just ensure your yeast is gluten-free, too!
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Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon. Their nutty flavor adds an extra layer of fun!
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Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough to give your pretzels a surprising kick. It’s a thrilling adventure for your taste buds!
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Cheesy Flavor: Incorporate nutritional yeast into the dough or top with vegan cheese after baking for a savory delight. The cheesy hints will complement the sweetness wonderfully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over each pretzel for a decadent treat. Sweet and savory, these will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Maple Glaze: Instead of a powdered sugar glaze, whisk together maple syrup and a little plant milk for a naturally sweet finish that highlights the cinnamon. The warmth of maple is simply heavenly!
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Fruit Infusion: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped apples into the dough for a fruity burst with each bite. These additions bring a fresh flavor that brightens up the pretzel!
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Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar in the topping to add a caramel-like richness and a hint of an earthy taste. This variation is as nutritious as it is delicious!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels Recipe FAQs
What kind of yeast should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe calls for active dry yeast, which is ideal for achieving that perfect rise and chewy texture. Make sure to let it bloom properly in warm water before adding the other ingredients to ensure your pretzels turn out light and fluffy!
How do I store leftover Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels?
To keep your pretzels fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best reheating results, pop them in the oven!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels? What’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious pretzels! Once they are completely cooled, place them in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake the pretzels for 10-15 minutes until they’re warm and crispy on the outside.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check if your yeast is active. It should bloom and froth when mixed with warm water and sugar; if not, it might be old or inactive. Also, ensure your dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area for rising. A slightly warm oven or a cozy kitchen corner is perfect!
Are these pretzels suitable for those with dietary restrictions like gluten or allergies?
The Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels can be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For those allergic to dairy, you’re already in luck as this recipe uses vegan butter and plant milk. Just be cautious and check ingredient labels if you have other specific allergies!
Cinnamon Crunch Soft Pretzels That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, add yeast, warm water, and sugar. Mix with a wooden spoon and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom, creating a bubbly mixture that signals the yeast is ready.
- Add flour, salt, and melted vegan butter to the bowl, then use the hook attachment on low speed. Gradually increase to medium for 5 minutes, mixing until the dough transforms into a smooth, homogenous ball.
- Coat a large bowl with a bit of oil, then place the dough inside. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- For the topping, combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Use your fingers to pinch the cold butter into the flour-sugar mixture until it's well-coated with a crumbly texture. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Once the dough has risen, remove it and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Stretch each piece into a rope about 26 inches long and twist it into a classic pretzel shape.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through, then place them on the baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Brush each shaped pretzel with unsweetened plant milk and generously coat with the topping mixture before baking.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Allow them to cool on a rack before serving, letting the flavors fully develop.