Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks That Taste Like Pure Holiday Magic

There’s something irresistible about warm, cinnamon-sugar treats during the colder months especially when they’re crispy, golden, and impossibly snackable. I first made these Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks for a winter gathering, and people were literally grabbing them right off the cooling rack. They disappeared faster than any cookie I served, and guests kept asking, “What ARE these and why can’t I stop eating them?” They’re the perfect blend of soft, chewy, lightly crisp, and coated in that nostalgic cinnamon-sugar sparkle. Whether enjoyed with hot cocoa, coffee, or dipped in warm caramel, these pretzel sticks deliver cozy comfort and festive flair in every bite.

What Is Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are twisted, baked pretzel dough sticks coated in butter and rolled generously in cinnamon sugar. They combine the classic texture of a soft pretzel with the sweetness of a churro, creating an addictive hybrid dessert-snack. Their long, twisty shape makes them perfect for dipping, sharing, and setting out as grab-and-go treats for parties or holiday gatherings.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
These pretzel sticks look bakery-fancy but are surprisingly easy to make at home. The dough is straightforward, the shaping is fun, and the cinnamon-sugar coating makes them taste like something straight from a festival stand. They’re soft inside, lightly crisp outside, and delicious warm or at room temperature. And let’s be honest anything rolled in cinnamon sugar is already halfway to perfection. Plus, they store well, pack well, and make incredible edible gifts.

How Does It Taste?
Imagine the soft chew of a classic warm pretzel, but without the saltiness. Instead, the surface is buttery, coated with glittering cinnamon sugar, and lightly crisp from the final bake. The interior stays tender and bready, while the outside gets a churro-like crunch. Every bite brings a sweet, warm burst of cinnamon and a soothing buttery richness.

Health & Ingredient Benefits
While these pretzels lean toward indulgence, several ingredients offer wholesome benefits:
• Yeast dough provides slow-release carbohydrates for longer-lasting energy.
• Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties and natural warming qualities.
• Butter, in modest amounts, adds flavor and satiety.
• Homemade dough means you avoid preservatives found in packaged snacks.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pretzel dough:
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the baking soda bath:
• 8 cups water
• ⅓ cup baking soda

For coating:
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper
• Baking sheets
• Parchment or silicone baking mats
• Large pot (for baking soda bath)
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Optional Substitutions & Additions
• Swap white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar.
• Make them chocolate-dipped by coating one end in melted chocolate.
• Add vanilla or almond extract to the dough.
• Use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, heartier pretzel.

Cozy Cinnamon Boosters for Extra Flavor
Want even more holiday magic? Add a teaspoon of apple pie spice to the sugar mix, sprinkle with coarse sanding sugar for sparkle, or brush the warm pretzels with browned butter for toasted richness.

How to Make

1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough: Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and melted butter. Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth.
3. Let rise: Cover and rest 1 hour or until doubled.
4. Shape the pretzel sticks: Divide dough into 16 pieces. Roll each into a long rope and twist lightly.
5. Prep baking soda bath: Bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil.
6. Dip the dough: Boil each pretzel stick for 20–25 seconds.
7. Bake: Place on lined sheet and bake at 425°F (218°C) for 12–14 minutes.
8. Coat in cinnamon sugar: Brush warm sticks with melted butter and roll generously in cinnamon sugar.
9. Serve warm or cool: Enjoy immediately or store for later.

What to Serve With
• Warm caramel sauce
• Vanilla or cinnamon cream cheese dip
• Hot cocoa or eggnog
• Coffee or spiced lattes
• Apple cider
• Ice cream for a churro-style dessert

Tips for Success
• Keep the water warm—not hot—for perfect yeast activation.
• Don’t skip the baking soda bath; it gives pretzels their signature texture.
• Coat in cinnamon sugar while warm so it sticks beautifully.
• Bake until golden for the best crunch without drying out the interior.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using water that’s too hot, which kills the yeast.
• Skipping the rise time—underproofed dough becomes dense.
• Boiling for too long, causing pretzels to taste metallic.
• Waiting until the pretzels cool before adding cinnamon sugar.

How to Store & Reheat
• Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freeze pretzel sticks (uncoated) up to 2 months; coat them after reheating.
• Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes—refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before shaping.

Can I air fry these?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, especially for parties or gifting.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)
Calories: 210 | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 33g | Protein: 4g

Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks offer everything you want in a festive treat—warmth, sweetness, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia. They’re fun to make, delightful to eat, and always the first things to disappear from the holiday snack table. Whether enjoyed on a cozy winter night or shared with friends and family, these pretzel sticks bring joy and sparkle to the season.

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November 14, 2025 by Melissa