Growing up, I have the fondest memories of my grandma’s kitchen. The air was always filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods, and her Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks were the star of the show. As a child, I’d eagerly watch her prepare the dough, roll it into long sticks, and then coat them in a heavenly mixture of cinnamon and sugar. The anticipation was almost too much to bear, but the moment I took that first bite, it was pure bliss. The slightly crisp exterior gave way to a soft, pillowy interior, with the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar coating lingering on my tongue.
Why This Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Over the years, I’ve perfected my grandma’s recipe, and I can confidently say that these Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are truly special. The secret lies in the combination of simple, high-quality ingredients and a few key techniques that ensure the perfect texture and flavor every time. From the chewy, golden-brown exterior to the light and airy inside, each bite is a symphony of warmth and comfort.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to this recipe is using the right ingredients in the right proportions. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the structure and base for the pretzel dough, ensuring a perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A small but essential addition that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast: Allows the dough to rise and develop that iconic pretzel chewiness.
- 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough come together seamlessly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a delicate, buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: The star of the show, creating the irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides that signature warmth and aroma that makes these pretzel sticks so irresistible.
Step-by-Step Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Instructions
Preparing Your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, these Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks come together in a total of 25 minutes. All you’ll need is a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and a baking sheet. Let’s get started!
1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir to combine.
2- Add the 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast and the 1 cup of warm water to the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
3- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4- After the dough has rested, roll it out into a long rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into 12 even pretzel sticks.
5- Carefully transfer the pretzel sticks to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. Brush the top of each pretzel stick with the 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
6- In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the pretzel sticks, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use warm (not hot) water when activating the yeast to prevent it from becoming too frothy and overproofing the dough.
- Knead the dough for the full 5 minutes to develop the gluten, which will result in a chewier texture.
- Be generous with the cinnamon-sugar coating – the more, the better! This is what gives these pretzel sticks their signature flavor.
- Bake the pretzel sticks on the middle rack of your oven for even cooking and browning.
Serving and Storing Your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Perfect Pairings for Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, serving 12 people as a tasty snack or appetizer. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips and beverages. Consider serving them with a rich, creamy cheese dip, a decadent chocolate fondue, or a refreshing glass of cold milk or hot apple cider. They’re also a delightful addition to any game day spread or movie night lineup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is that the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment. To store them, let the pretzel sticks cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the pretzel sticks. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, or until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake the frozen pretzel sticks at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warm and crisp.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Creative Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Variations
While the classic Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are utterly delicious, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try rolling the pretzel sticks in a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar for a deeper, more caramelized flavor. For a festive twist, add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. You can also experiment with different spice blends, such as pumpkin pie spice or chai, to create seasonal variations.
Making Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. To make them vegan, swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil. And for a low-carb option, replace the granulated sugar in the dough with a calorie-free sweetener, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of flour instead of all-purpose?
A: While you can experiment with other flours, such as whole wheat or bread flour, all-purpose flour is the best choice for this recipe. It provides the perfect balance of structure and chewiness.
Q: How long do I need to knead the dough?
A: Kneading the dough for about 5 minutes is crucial to developing the gluten, which gives the pretzel sticks their signature chewy texture.
Q: Can I freeze the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks?
A: Yes, absolutely! The pretzel sticks can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply bake them from frozen at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to reheat and re-crisp the exterior.
Q: How many pretzel sticks does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 12 Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks, making it the perfect snack or appetizer for a group.
Q: What if my pretzel sticks don’t turn out as golden-brown and crisp as I’d like?
A: If your pretzel sticks aren’t as crisp as you’d like, try baking them for a few extra minutes, or broiling them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking to get that perfect golden-brown color and texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 12 pretzel sticks
Description
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and salty with these quick and easy Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks, ready in just 20 minutes! Freshly baked pretzel sticks are coated in a delectable cinnamon sugar mixture, creating an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the yeast. Add the warm water and melted butter, and stir until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope, about 1/2 inch thick and 6 inches long.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of sugar and cinnamon.
6. Carefully transfer the pretzel sticks to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
For a chunkier texture, you can leave the pretzel sticks a bit thicker. If you want to add a cheesy twist, you can sprinkle grated parmesan or cheddar cheese on top of the cinnamon sugar.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are a true labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. The combination of the soft, chewy interior and the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar exterior is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family movie night, a festive holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving a comforting snack, this recipe is sure to become a new go-to in your kitchen.
I hope these Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks bring you the same joy and nostalgia they’ve brought me over the years. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out different variations – the possibilities are endless! Let me know in the comments how your pretzel sticks turn out, and be sure to share this recipe with your loved ones. Enjoy!
