Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug, you absolutely have to try this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe. I love this recipe because it hits that sweet spot between soft, chewy pretzel dough and that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating that just melts in your mouth. Paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting dip, these pretzels transform any afternoon snack or weekend brunch into something a little extra special.

When I first tried making these pretzels at home, I was surprised by how straightforward the process is—and how fresh homemade pretzels can taste! Whether you’re after a fun weekend baking project, a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, or a kid-friendly treat, this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe comes through every time with buttery sweetness and a tangy dip that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably have or can easily find, all working together to create that signature soft pretzel texture and sweet finish. Look for fresh dairy and quality vanilla to elevate the flavor of your cream cheese frosting dip.

• Bread Flour or All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour gives more chew, but all-purpose works well if that’s what you have.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the dough and topping.
• Non-Diastatic Malt Powder (Optional): A bakery secret! It helps develop color and flavor if you have it, but no worries if you don’t.
• Instant Yeast: For that perfect rise and classic pretzel bounce.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for balanced flavor in the dough.
• Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature for the dough and melted for brushing the pretzels.
• Whole Milk: Makes the dough tender and rich; you can use 2% if needed.
• Baking Soda: For that iconic pretzel crust—this step is non-negotiable!
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice in the cinnamon sugar topping.
• Powdered Sugar: For the smooth, sweet cream cheese frosting dip.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the frosting.
• Heavy Cream: Optional, helps make the frosting extra silky and dip-ready.
• Cream Cheese: The base of the frosting, softened to blend perfectly.

Variations

I like to keep the base recipe classic, but it’s fun to switch things up to match your mood or occasion. After all, pretzels are surprisingly versatile, and you can tweak the cinnamon sugar blend or frosting for a unique spin.

• Spiced Up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix gave my pretzels a delightful warm spice twist.
• Less Sweet Option: If you want to tone down the sweetness, swap out half the cinnamon sugar for a little coarse sea salt for a sweet-and-salty combo my family adores.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve experimented with gluten-free flours—just be mindful the texture changes and may be less chewy, so add xanthan gum for best results.
• Different Dips: While the cream cheese frosting is a winner, sometimes I serve these with honey butter or even maple glaze for a morning treat.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Perfect Pretzel Dough

Start by mixing your flour, sugar, malt powder (if you’re using it), yeast, salt, milk, and softened butter in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. You want to mix on low speed for about 5 to 10 minutes until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. If your dough feels too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time to get that perfect touch of stickiness—too stiff, and the pretzels won’t be chewy enough. Cover your dough and set it aside in a warm spot to rise for an hour; it won’t double, but it’ll soften and become easier to work with.

Step 2: Shape Your Pretzel Masterpieces

Turn your dough out onto a clean surface without flouring it too much—you want that little bit of stickiness to help keep the ropes from unraveling. Divide into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a 15-inch rope about half an inch thick. Make a “U” shape, cross the ends twice, then fold and press the ends down to form the classic pretzel shape. If the ends won’t stick, don’t sweat it—just brush lightly with water and press firmly. I’ve learned this little trick makes a huge difference keeping the shape tidy.

Step 3: The Magic Boil with Baking Soda

This might seem like an odd step, but boiling the pretzels in water with baking soda is what gives them that signature chewy texture and shiny golden crust. Bring a big pot of water to a rolling boil, add the baking soda, then carefully boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds per side. You can only do a few at a time, so take your time here—trust me, it’s worth the effort! Skipping this step? You’ll lose that authentic pretzel taste.

Step 4: Bake and Coat in Cinnamon Sugar Goodness

After boiling, place pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. When they’re fresh from the oven, brush generously with melted butter, then toss in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. Here’s what I learned: if you toss them immediately, the sugar melts into the butter nicely for warm, gooey sweetness. If you want them cleaner and less sticky, cool completely before tossing. Both ways are delicious!

Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting Dip

While your pretzels bake, whip together softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream to get a creamy, dip-perfect consistency. This frosting isn’t overly sweet—it balances the warm cinnamon sugar beautifully and adds a tangy richness that will have you dipping every bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple and sprinkle a tiny extra dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving for an added sparkle and cinnamon aroma. Sometimes, a light drizzle of melted butter over the pretzels adds even more richness and sheen, which looks fantastic and tastes even better.

Side Dishes

For a fun brunch combo, I love pairing these pretzels with fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness. They also go great alongside a warm spiced apple cider or a rich cup of hot chocolate—that combo is pure comfort in a bite and sip.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like arranging the pretzels in a circle around the frosting dip in a pretty serving bowl, then topping the dip with a sprinkle of cinnamon and chopped pecans for crunch. It makes a festive centerpiece that’s as inviting as it is tasty and is always a hit at family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I’m all about enjoying these fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the pretzels covered at room temperature, plain without cinnamon sugar, for up to 2 or 3 days. This helps them stay soft and fresh, and you can always re-coat them in butter and cinnamon sugar before serving so they taste like new.

Freezing

I’ve frozen both the shaped pretzels (before boiling and baking) and the baked ones. Freezing shaped dough works well if you want to prep in advance—just thaw before boiling and baking. Pre-baked pretzels freeze beautifully wrapped tightly, then reheat in the oven for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, which refreshes the soft texture without drying them out. If reheating frozen pretzels, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm as usual. I avoid microwaving since it can make the texture rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort snacks and an instant crowd-pleaser whenever I bring it out. It’s simple enough to make on a whim but impressive enough to feel like a special treat. Trust me, once you try these soft, buttery pretzels dipped in that creamy frosting, you’ll be hooked—and I can’t wait for you to experience that same joy in your own kitchen.

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