There’s something magical about pulling a tray of freshly baked soft pretzels from the oven. Golden brown, slightly puffed, and coated in a sparkling layer of cinnamon sugar — they instantly fill the kitchen with the coziest aroma.

The outside has that delicate crisp bite, while the inside stays soft, fluffy, and perfectly chewy. And that combination of lightly salted dough with sweet, spiced cinnamon sugar? Pure snack perfection.

These pretzels are the kind of treat you reach for before the first one even cools. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll sneak a few bites straight off the tray — maybe even roll them in a little extra cinnamon sugar for good measure.

Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in, a movie snack, or to share with friends, they have a way of turning ordinary moments into something special.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Soft and pillowy inside, lightly crisp outside
Perfect balance of sweet and salty
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Beginner-friendly yeast dough
Great for sharing (or not!)

Key Ingredients & Why They Matter

Every ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

Active Dry Yeast

Yeast gives the pretzels their signature rise and soft, chewy texture. It ferments the sugars in the dough, creating those airy pockets inside.

Warm Water

Helps activate the yeast. The ideal temperature is between 100–110°F (38–43°C) — warm, not hot.

Granulated Sugar

Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.

All-Purpose Flour

Provides structure and chewiness — the backbone of the pretzel dough.

Salt

Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Melted Unsalted Butter

Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.

Baking Soda (for the water bath)

This is what gives pretzels their iconic chewy crust and deep golden color.

Egg Wash

Brushed on before baking to create that glossy, bakery-style finish.

Cinnamon & Sugar

The sweet, spiced coating that makes these pretzels completely irresistible.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.

Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope. Shape into a U, twist the ends, and fold them down to form the classic pretzel shape.

Step 5: Baking Soda Bath

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar

Brush pretzels with beaten egg.

Mix ½ cup sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon and generously sprinkle over each pretzel.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Optional: Brush with melted butter after baking for extra richness.

Serving Ideas

These pretzels are incredible on their own, but here are some indulgent pairings:

Caramel Dip
Warm, gooey caramel adds a luxurious sweetness.

Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle melted chocolate or serve with ganache for dipping.

Cinnamon Honey Butter
Mix softened butter with honey and cinnamon for a creamy, dreamy spread.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator

Keeps for 4–5 days, though the crust may soften. Reheat in oven to refresh.

Freezer

Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Pretzels

Make sure yeast water isn’t too hot.
Knead thoroughly for elasticity.
Keep water at a rolling boil during the baking soda bath.
Don’t skip the bath — it’s key to texture.
Brush with butter after baking for extra softness.

Final Thoughts

Homemade cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are one of those simple joys that never disappoint. From the soft chew of the dough to the sweet cinnamon crunch on top, every bite feels comforting and nostalgic.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Rest Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Yield: 8 pretzels

Ingredients

Dough

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (100–110°F / 38–43°C)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Baking Soda Bath

10 cups water
1/4 cup baking soda

Topping

1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into an 18-inch rope and shape into pretzels.
Bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add baking soda carefully.
Drop pretzels into boiling water one at a time for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheet.
Brush each pretzel with beaten egg.
Mix sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle generously over pretzels.
Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving.