Amazing Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

I’ll be honest, because the first time I tried making a Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel, it was a total disaster, so the dough stuck everywhere, and my kitchen looked like a flour bomb exploded.

The pretzel didn’t even look like a Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel; however, I almost gave up, but then I took a bite, and wo,w it was sweet and soft and cinnamon-y goodness, therefore suddenly all the mess felt totally worth it

Have you ever had that moment when you mess something up and think it’s ruined, and then it turns out amazing anyway? Well, that’s exactly what makes making a Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel so fun

It’s a little messy and a little unpredictable yet oh-so-delicious. Furthermore, the best part is you don’t need to be perfect to make a Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel, since even if your pretzels look wonky or your sugar coating isn’t perfect, you’ll still get that warm and chewy magic in every bite.

ingredients

• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

ingredients notes

• Warm water: Not too hot or too cold! It should feel like a warm bath on your hand.
• Yeast: This is what makes your pretzels puffy and soft.
• Salt: Just a little bit, it makes the flavors pop!
• Flour: Use all-purpose; it’s what makes the dough soft and easy to twist.
• Baking soda: This is used to make a fun pretzel crust when boiled.
• Egg: Gives the pretzels a shiny look.
• Butter: Yummy and makes them extra soft.
• Cinnamon sugar: The magical sweet topping that makes everyone smile.

How to make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel?

step 1: make the dough

In a big bowl, pour warm water and sprinkle yeast over it. Add sugar and stir. Wait about 5 minutes until it gets foamy like a little bubble bath. Then, add salt and flour, one cup at a time, mixing as you go. Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and soft like playdough.

step 2: let the dough rise

Cover your bowl with a clean kitchen towel. Put it in a warm place and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the yeast makes the dough puff up like a balloon.

step 3: shape the pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20 inches long. Twist each rope into a classic pretzel shape. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—homemade pretzels are supposed to look fun!

step 4: boil the pretzels

In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. This makes the crust chewy and golden brown when baked. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

step 5: add egg wash

Brush the top of each pretzel with the beaten egg. This gives them a shiny, bakery-like finish.

step 6: bake the pretzels

Bake the pretzels in the oven for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they can go from golden to too dark quickly.

step 7: add cinnamon sugar

While the pretzels are still warm, brush with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. Press gently so the sugar sticks.

kitchen equipment needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Clean kitchen towel
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Pastry brush
• Oven

storage options!

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them longer, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy later, just warm them in the oven for a few minutes to make them soft and delicious again.

variations!

You can make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels fun in different ways. Try adding chocolate chips inside the dough for a sweet surprise. You can also dip them in melted chocolate or caramel after baking. For a fruity twist, add a little powdered sugar glaze with a tiny splash of orange juice. You can even sprinkle colored sugar for parties or special occasions.

what to enjoy with Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel?

Have you ever tried a Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel with something else? Well, I started pairing it with Midwest Salisbury Steak, and I couldn’t believe how well they went together. Furthermore, I also love it with Lava Brownies because the warm pretzel makes a perfect combination.

The natural sweetness adds a nice twist with vanilla ice cream or a breakfast plate with scrambled eggs and bacon, because sweet and salty mornings are the best, and try it with a little honey or maple syrup drizzled on top, because a sticky finish is super satisfying.

tips for making the best cinnamon sugar pretzel

• Make sure your water is the right temperature—too hot and the yeast dies, too cold and it won’t rise.
• Don’t skip boiling with baking soda; it gives that classic pretzel chewiness.
• Use plenty of butter and sugar for the topping—it makes every bite melt in your mouth.
• Let the dough rise fully; patience makes the fluffiest pretzels.
• Keep an eye on baking time so they don’t burn.

FAQ

what is Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel made of?

It is made of flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, egg, butter, and cinnamon sugar for the topping.

what does Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel taste like?

It tastes soft, chewy, warm, sweet, and a little cinnamony—like a hug for your mouth.

can i make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but the texture might be a little different.

how long does it take to make?

About 2 hours from start to finish, including rising time.

can kids help make this?

Yes! They can roll the dough and sprinkle cinnamon sugar.

can i freeze the pretzels?

Yes, wrap them in plastic and freeze for up to a month.

do i have to boil the pretzels?

Boiling makes them chewy and golden, so it’s highly recommended.

can i make mini pretzels?

Yes! Just cut the dough into smaller pieces and shape as you like.

what drink goes best with them?

Milk, hot chocolate, or apple cider are perfect.

can i add chocolate chips?

Absolutely, chocolate chips make a yummy variation.

what if my dough is sticky?

Add a little flour while kneading, but not too much or they will be dense.

can i use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, it gives a richer flavor with a hint of caramel.