Can I substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast?

Yes. If using instant yeast, you can skip the initial proofing step and add it directly to the flour mixture. Use the same amount and reduce the rise time slightly as instant yeast is more potent and faster acting than active dry yeast.

What is the purpose of boiling the pretzels before baking them?

The baking soda boiling bath is what gives soft pretzels their distinctive chewy crust, deep golden color, and classic pretzel flavor. It is a non-negotiable step for authentic soft pretzel texture and appearance.

Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the dough and shape the pretzels up to 24 hours ahead. Cover the shaped pretzels with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before boiling and baking to allow them to come to room temperature.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels Warm Pillowy and Irresistible

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels The Warmest Sweetest Homemade Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water 100 to 110F; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted; 1/4 cup baking soda for the boiling bath; 1 large egg beaten for egg wash; 1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for topping

Description

Warm pillowy Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with a perfectly chewy baked interior and a sweet fragrant cinnamon sugar crust. Made from scratch and irresistible straight from the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 cup warm water 100 to 110F

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

1/4 cup baking soda for the boiling bath

1 large egg beaten for egg wash

1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for topping

Instructions

1. Combine warm water yeast and sugar and let sit 5 to 10 minutes until foamy

2. Mix flour and salt then add yeast mixture and melted butter and stir until dough forms

3. Knead dough 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic

4. Place in oiled bowl cover and let rise 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled

5. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal portions

6. Roll each portion into an 18-inch rope and shape into a pretzel

7. Preheat oven to 375F (190C)

8. Boil 10 cups water with baking soda and cook each pretzel 30 seconds then remove

9. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with beaten egg

10. Mix cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle generously over each pretzel

11. Bake 12 to 15 minutes until deep golden brown

12. Cool on wire rack a few minutes then serve warm

Notes

Water temperature for yeast must be 100 to 110F to activate properly.

Do not skip the baking soda boiling bath for authentic pretzel texture.

Apply cinnamon sugar immediately while egg wash is still wet for best adhesion.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Snack Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pretzel
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: cinnamon sugar soft pretzels, homemade soft pretzels, easy cinnamon pretzels, sweet pretzel recipe, soft pretzel dough