Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Introduction
There’s something irresistibly comforting about the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks. Whether it’s a special treat for movie night or a delightful snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these pretzel sticks are sure to become a family favorite. In this recipe blog post, I’ll share with you my well-loved family recipe for cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks and guide you through the step-by-step process of creating these delectable treats.
How I Discovered this Recipe
Several years ago, during a summer vacation, my family and I stumbled upon a charming little bakery tucked away in a quaint village. As we entered, the aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped us, instantly making our mouths water. We couldn’t resist trying their cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks, and from the first bite, we were hooked. The perfect balance of sweetness and warm spices danced on our taste buds, leaving us craving more.
After returning home, I was determined to recreate that magical experience in my own kitchen. I reached out to the bakery and, to my surprise, they were kind enough to share their treasured recipe with me. Since then, these cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks have become a staple in our family gatherings, always evoking fond memories of that summer vacation.
Instructions
To make these heavenly cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda.
7. Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each piece into a long rope, about 10-12 inches in length.
8. Carefully dip each pretzel stick into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel sticks turn golden brown.
10. While the pretzel sticks are still warm, brush them with melted butter.
11. In a shallow bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Roll each pretzel stick in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
12. Allow the pretzel sticks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
These cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are still warm and the sugar coating is delightfully crunchy. They pair perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or a creamy caramel dip.
Variations
If you’re looking to add a twist to your cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks, here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Chocolate Drizzle
Once the pretzel sticks have cooled, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top. This adds a rich and decadent touch to the already delightful treat.
2. Cream Cheese Frosting
For those who love a creamy and tangy contrast, whip up a batch of cream cheese frosting to serve as a dipping sauce alongside the pretzel sticks. The combination of the sweet cinnamon sugar and the creamy frosting is simply heavenly.
Keto Version
If you’re following a keto lifestyle, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks with a few simple substitutions:
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups almond flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sweetener (such as erythritol or stevia)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Follow the instructions below, replacing the all-purpose flour with almond flour and the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the pretzel sticks?
Absolutely! Once the pretzel sticks have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the pretzel sticks may be slightly different. Whole wheat flour tends to result in a denser and heartier pretzel stick.
3. Can I make mini pretzel bites instead of sticks?
Absolutely! Instead of rolling the dough into long ropes, divide it into smaller portions and roll them into bite-sized balls. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as mini pretzel bites will require less time in the oven.
Conclusion
There you have it – a delightful recipe for cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks that will surely bring joy to your taste buds. Whether you’re indulging in them as a special treat or sharing them with loved ones, these pretzel sticks are guaranteed to be a hit. Get creative with the variations, and don’t forget to savor every bite. Happy baking!
