Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe

Craving something golden, soft, and dusted with pure happiness? Look no further than this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe! These pillowy pretzel sticks are baked until perfectly golden, rolled in a generous coat of cinnamon sugar, and so irresistible that they vanish by the handful. Whether you’re planning a fun family baking night or looking to delight guests at your next party, these sweet and shareable treats are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing overly fancy about this list, but each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the flavor, fluffy texture, and mouthwatering finish that define the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe. Let’s take a look at each component and what makes it so vital!

• Warm Water: Kickstarts the yeast and brings the dough together for that classic pillowy texture.
• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for making the pretzel sticks rise and achieve their signature fluffiness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough and builds that gorgeous caramelized finish.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our recipe, creating the structure for each tender stick.
• Salt: Enhances the depth of flavor and brings out the sweet and spiced notes.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Keeps every bite rich and tender, and is also vital for coating with cinnamon-sugar goodness.
• Baking Soda (for boiling): The secret to that beautiful pretzel color and classic chewy crust.
• Granulated Sugar (for coating): Delivers the iconic cinnamon sugar crunch you’ll crave in every bite.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star seasoning for warmth, aroma, and cozy flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (melted, for coating): Lets the cinnamon sugar adhere for maximum deliciousness.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and a tablespoon of sugar. Let this mixture rest for about five minutes until it’s foamy and fragrant—this quick step guarantees your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe starts off light and fluffy!

Step 2: Make the Dough

Grab a large bowl and mix together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the first portion of melted butter. Stir the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for five to seven minutes, working until the dough is silky and stretchy.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Set it somewhere warm for about one hour, or until it doubles in size. Don’t rush this step—the rise gives your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe those signature pockets of chewy softness!

Step 4: Shape the Pretzel Sticks

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into eight pieces, then roll each into a rope about 10-12 inches long. Slice these ropes into cute, snackable 4-inch sticks—perfect for sharing or dunking!

Step 5: Boil the Pretzel Sticks

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a bubbly boil. Stir in the baking soda (watch for fizzing!), then gently drop each pretzel stick in for 30 seconds. This step is key for the pretzel’s classic texture and helps the outside bake to golden perfection. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pop the pretzel sticks into the oven and let them bake for 10-12 minutes. Your kitchen will smell incredible as they turn beautifully golden brown—watch for that irresistible color!

Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While the pretzel sticks are still warm from the oven, brush them all over with melted butter. Then, roll each stick in a bowl of cinnamon sugar, making sure every side gets a generous, sparkly coating. This is where your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe truly shines!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the pretzel sticks cool slightly—if you can wait! They’re best served warm, so don’t be shy about digging right in.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe

Garnishes

Give your pretzel sticks an extra flourish by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm chocolate. A little cream cheese dipping sauce or caramel pairs beautifully if you’re serving them at a gathering—just be ready for the compliments!

Side Dishes

These treats shine as a snack on their own, but you can round out your spread with fresh berries, fruit salad, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For the ultimate party platter, serve the pretzel sticks upright in mason jars or cups, or thread them onto skewers for a sweet, snackable bouquet. Make mini versions for kids’ parties, or wrap individual sticks in wax paper for a portable treat. However you present them, the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe will be a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This locks in freshness and keeps the cinnamon sugar coating from getting sticky.

Freezing

Need to prep ahead? Once baked and cooled, store the pretzel sticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Hold off on the final cinnamon sugar toss until after reheating—they’ll taste just-baked and oh-so-fresh.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked magic, warm the pretzel sticks in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about five minutes. If you froze them, let them thaw at room temperature before reheating, then brush with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar for the perfect finish.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be swapped in directly, and you don’t need to wait for it to become foamy—just whisk it into the dry ingredients and you’re good to go.

Do I have to boil the pretzel sticks before baking?

Absolutely! That quick baking soda bath is what gives the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe its signature chew and deep golden color—it’s a step you don’t want to miss.

Can I substitute whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste and heartier texture. Using all whole wheat will make the sticks denser, so stick with a blend for best results.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

With a few tweaks, yes! Use plant-based butter and check that your sugar is vegan-friendly, and you’ll still get delightful, fluffy pretzel sticks.

What’s the best way to rewarm leftover pretzel sticks?

The oven is your friend—just five minutes at 350°F (175°C) will restore their warmth and outer crunch, making them taste almost freshly baked.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fill your home with the scent of warm spices and enjoy a soft, sweet treat, don’t wait another minute to try this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe. It’s just the right mix of nostalgic, easy, and absolutely crowd-pleasing—your family and friends will thank you after the very first bite!

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