Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks: The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Snack

Few snacks strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty quite like cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar layer, these irresistible treats feel nostalgic and indulgent all at once. Whether you’re making them for a cozy movie night, a party platter, a holiday snack table, or simply to satisfy a craving, cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks are guaranteed to disappear fast.

In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making homemade cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks—from the history of pretzels to step-by-step instructions, baking tips, variations, storage ideas, and serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe and plenty of creative inspiration to make these pretzel sticks your own.

Why Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Are So Popular

Pretzels have been beloved for centuries, but adding cinnamon sugar transforms them into something truly special. Here’s why this snack has become a favorite:

Perfect flavor balance: Sweet cinnamon sugar meets salty pretzel dough.
Versatile: Great for dessert, snacks, parties, or gifting.
Simple ingredients: Pantry staples you likely already have.
Customizable: Baked or air-fried, thick or thin, extra sugary or lightly dusted.
Crowd-pleasing: Kids and adults both love them.

Unlike store-bought versions, homemade cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks taste fresher, have better texture, and let you control sweetness and seasoning.

A Brief History of Pretzels (And How Cinnamon Sugar Fits In)

Pretzels date back over 1,400 years and are believed to have originated in Europe, possibly created by monks as a reward for children who learned their prayers. Traditional pretzels were savory, symbolizing arms crossed in prayer.

As pretzels spread across regions—especially to Germany and later the United States—variations emerged. Soft pretzels became a staple at fairs and bakeries, while hard pretzels gained popularity as a shelf-stable snack.

The cinnamon sugar pretzel likely evolved as American bakeries began experimenting with dessert-style pretzels, combining familiar flavors like cinnamon rolls and churros with classic pretzel dough. The result? A sweet snack that feels both comforting and indulgent.

What Makes These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Special?

This recipe focuses on soft baked pretzel sticks, not hard pretzels. They’re:

Light and fluffy inside
Slightly crisp on the outside
Generously coated with melted butter
Rolled in warm cinnamon sugar

The stick shape makes them perfect for dipping, sharing, and snacking without mess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pretzel Dough

1½ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath

10 cups water
⅔ cup baking soda

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt (optional but recommended)

Essential Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
Baking sheets
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Slotted spoon
Pastry brush
Shallow bowl for cinnamon sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead by hand or with a mixer for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzel Sticks

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 portions. Roll each portion into a rope, then cut into sticks about 4–5 inches long.

Step 5: Baking Soda Bath

Bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add baking soda (it will bubble).

Drop pretzel sticks into the bath for 20–30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While pretzels are still warm, brush generously with melted butter. Roll immediately in cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

Don’t skip the baking soda bath: This gives pretzels their signature chewy texture.
Coat while warm: Cinnamon sugar sticks best to hot, buttery pretzels.
Use real butter: Margarine won’t give the same flavor.
Adjust sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on preference.
Thin vs thick: Thinner sticks are crunchier; thicker ones are softer.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Churro-Style Pretzel Sticks

Add a dash of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar and serve with warm chocolate sauce.

2. Cream Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Sticks

Roll dough around thin strips of cream cheese before boiling and baking.

3. Maple Cinnamon Pretzel Sticks

Replace half the sugar with maple sugar or drizzle with maple glaze.

4. Chocolate-Drizzled Pretzel Sticks

Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over cooled pretzels.

5. Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, turning once.

Dipping Sauces That Pair Perfectly

Vanilla glaze
Chocolate ganache
Cream cheese dip
Caramel sauce
Honey butter

Dips turn these pretzel sticks into a full dessert experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze baked pretzels without coating; reheat and coat later.

When to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

Birthday parties
Game nights
Holiday gatherings
Bake sales
Movie nights
After-school snacks

They’re especially popular during fall and winter but delicious year-round.

Nutritional Notes (Approximate)

Per serving (without dips):

Calories: ~220
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~7g
Sugar: ~15g

You can reduce sugar or butter slightly for a lighter version.

Why Homemade Is Better Than Store-Bought

Homemade cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks:

Taste fresher
Have no preservatives
Are more customizable
Cost less
Feel more special

Plus, the smell of cinnamon and butter baking in your kitchen is unbeatable.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks are one of those snacks that feel simple yet special. They combine comforting flavors, satisfying texture, and endless versatility. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with creative variations, these pretzel sticks are guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.

Once you try them homemade, you may never go back to store-bought again.

TIPS RECIPES

lundi 22 décembre 2025

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks