Pretzels with Cinnamon Sugar
The warm aroma of freshly baked pretzels wafts through the kitchen, pulling you in with hints of cinnamon and sugar. The moment you open the oven, a burst of sweet, sugary delight greets you — it’s hard to resist that golden-brown hue and salty-sweet crunch. As you take a bite, the pretzels deliver a delightful juxtaposition: crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfectly coated with a luscious cinnamon sugar mixture.
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Growing up, I remember making snacks with family during chilly autumn afternoons, when the leaves crunched underfoot and the air was filled with excitement for the holidays. We’d gather in the kitchen, laughter mingling with the smells of our favorite treats. These pretzels with cinnamon sugar became a staple, not just for the taste, but for the joy of creating something special together. Whether they’re for a cozy movie night or a festive gathering, they always bring a smile. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and whip up a batch that’s sure to warm your heart!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, you can whip these up anytime the craving strikes.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet cinnamon and salty pretzels creates a flavor experience you won’t forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Their golden color and sugar-coated shimmer make them perfect for sharing or gifting.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy these as an after-school snack, a party treat, or even a cozy breakfast option.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adjust for gluten-free pretzels or dairy-free butter for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup granulated sugar: This adds the sweetness that beautifully contrasts the salted pretzels. You can use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It brings warmth and depth. Try using Vietnamese cinnamon for a bolder flavor.
- 1 (16-ounce) bag mini pretzel twists: Opt for mini twists for the perfect bite-sized snack. If you prefer a crunchier texture, choose pretzel sticks instead.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): This helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the pretzels, giving them a rich flavor. If you want to make it dairy-free, melted coconut oil works well too.
How to Make Pretzels with Cinnamon Sugar
Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 300°F. This temperature is perfect for slowly toasting the pretzels without burning them. While the oven is heating, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed. The sweet aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious treats to come. Set this delightful mixture aside for now.
Toss with Butter: Grab a large bowl and pour in the mini pretzel twists. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over them, tossing gently until they’re well-coated. This step is crucial; make sure every pretzel is covered with that delicious buttery goodness!
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Now, sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over the pretzels. Stir again until each pretzel is fully coated; you want them to resemble little sugary jewels! Feel free to sneak a few pieces to taste — I won’t tell!
Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the coated pretzels onto your prepared baking sheet in an even layer. To achieve perfect crunchiness, make sure they aren’t stacked on top of one another. Spread them out like you’re arranging a delicious platter for a gathering.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes to promote even baking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re dry and fragrant, their golden color shining against the warm hue of the cinnamon sugar.
Cool Completely: Once done, remove the pretzels from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. This cooling step is key to ensuring they don’t become soggy. The pretzels will firm up as they cool, making them the ideal crunchy snack!
Storing & Reheating
Store your pretzels with cinnamon sugar in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, but they may lose some crunch. For longer storage, freeze the pretzels in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their texture, making them crisp just like when they came out of the oven!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Watch those pretzels closely while baking; it’s easy to overshoot that perfect golden color!
- Be sure to mix the butter into the pretzels thoroughly to ensure even sweetness; there’s nothing worse than a dry bite.
- Try sprinkling a tiny pinch of sea salt over the pretzels after baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a fun twist, consider adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a unique flavor profile.
- If you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought cinnamon sugar instead of making your own.
These pretzels with cinnamon sugar are not just a snack; they’re a fun, cozy experience that can spark cherished memories. Explore your creativity by adjusting flavors or adding toppings to fit your tastes. Once you make this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again, and they’ll surely become a favorite in your home!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use regular pretzels instead of mini ones?
Absolutely! Regular pretzels will work just as well, but keep in mind that cooking time may vary. Larger pretzels will take slightly longer to bake, so check them frequently to avoid burning. The flavor will still be just as delicious and satisfying!
What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?
Great question! You can substitute unsalted butter with melted coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Both options will provide the necessary fat to help the cinnamon sugar stick while giving a pleasant flavor to the pretzels.
Can I season the pretzels differently?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, try different flavor profiles such as garlic and herb or cheesy seasoning. Just toss the pretzels in your favorite seasoning mix instead of cinnamon sugar for a savory twist!
How can I make these pretzels gluten-free?
To make gluten-free pretzels with cinnamon sugar, opt for gluten-free pretzel twists, widely available in most grocery stores. Check that the cinnamon sugar and butter are gluten-free, and you’ll have a delightful, gluten-free treat to enjoy!
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📖 Recipe Card
Pretzels with Cinnamon Sugar
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pretzels with Cinnamon Sugar offer a delightful mix of crispy and tender textures, coated in a sweet and salty mixture that’s perfect for snacks or gatherings. Easy to prepare, they evoke warm memories and will surely please everyone!
Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 (16-ounce) bag mini pretzel twists
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, coat pretzels with melted butter, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over pretzels and toss until coated.
- Spread pretzels in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Allow pretzels to cool on the sheet before serving.
Notes
Use coconut sugar for a healthier sweetener alternative.
Experiment with Vietnamese cinnamon for a richer flavor.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
