Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe with you! There’s something incredibly comforting about soft pretzels rolled in cinnamon sugar, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting dip that just elevates the snack game entirely. Whether you’re whipping these up for weekend brunch, a cozy night in, or a fun gathering, they never fail to bring smiles around the table.

What makes this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe really stand out is how easy it is to make these soft, fluffy pretzels at home without needing fancy equipment. When I first tried this, I was amazed by how close the taste and texture were to the ones from a mall pretzel stand—but with the bonus of that dreamy, sweet cream cheese dip. You’ll find that once you master this, it quickly becomes a beloved recipe you’ll want to turn to over and over.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe plays its part in creating the perfect texture and flavor. I like to use bread flour for the best chewiness, but all-purpose flour works well too if that’s what you have on hand.

• Bread Flour: Gives the pretzels that chewy, soft interior; sub all-purpose flour if needed.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness in the dough.
• Non-Diastatic Malt Powder (Optional): Helps deepen flavor and improve crust color—if you can’t find it, no worries.
• Instant Yeast: Makes the dough rise and develop flavor efficiently.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness in the dough and melted for brushing.
• Whole Milk: Keeps the dough tender and soft.
• Baking Soda: Used in the boiling water to create that classic pretzel crust.
• Cinnamon and Sugar: The delicious coating that’s a perfect sweet counterpoint.
• Cream Cheese: The base for the luscious frosting dip, softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: A little something extra in the dip for depth of flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Helps make the frosting silky and easy to dip.

Variations

I like to play around with this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe depending on the mood and season. Feel free to customize it to your taste—adding a twist here or swapping an ingredient there can keep this snack exciting every time.

• Spiced Up Cinnamon: I’ve mixed in a pinch of nutmeg and cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a fall-inspired version that tastes like comfort in every bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using a gluten-free flour blend worked surprisingly well for me, just expect a slightly different texture.
• Chocolate Dip: Sometimes I swap the cream cheese frosting for a warm chocolate ganache for a decadently delicious experience.
• Savory Pretzels: For a twist, skip the cinnamon sugar and serve with mustard or a cheesy dip instead.

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

Step 1: Mix and Knead Your Dough

Grab your stand mixer with the dough hook (or prepare to knead by hand!) and combine your flour, sugar, malt powder, yeast, salt, milk, and butter. Mix everything on a low speed until it forms a smooth, slightly sticky dough—this should take about 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t worry if it feels a bit tacky; just adjust with small amounts of flour or milk to get the right feel. I learned that patience here pays off for soft, elastic pretzel dough!

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your dough and tuck it somewhere warm for about an hour. It won’t necessarily double in size but will get a bit puffy, which is exactly what you want. You’ll find it easier to shape and has that light, airy quality once baked. I usually preheat my oven shortly before it’s done rising.

Step 3: Shape Your Pretzels

Turn the dough out onto your clean surface—no flour needed here! Gently fold it a couple of times to deflate it lightly, then divide into 12 even pieces. Rolling each into a 15-inch long rope and forming that classic pretzel shape is so satisfying. If the ends don’t stick, a quick brush of water and firm press solves that every time. This shaping part is where I find baking becomes art.

Step 4: Soda Bath for That Pretzel Crust

This step makes a huge difference, so don’t skip it! Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add the baking soda, then carefully boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds per side. It’s a bit tedious to do three at a time, but the texture and color once baked blow me away. After boiling, transfer them to your parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake your pretzels at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. While the pretzels are still warm, brush them with melted butter and toss in the cinnamon sugar mixture. I love this step because the butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly and makes the pretzels irresistible. If you want a cleaner look, let the pretzels cool before coating, but I usually enjoy them warm and soft.

Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting Dip

While your pretzels bake, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar, then vanilla and heavy cream, blending until you get a creamy, dreamy dip that’s just begging to be paired with those warm pretzels. I love how quick and simple this frosting comes together with just a few ingredients.

Grab a warm cinnamon sugar soft pretzel, dip it generously in the cream cheese frosting, and savor every sweet, soft bite!

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

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar over the pretzels just before serving for that extra sparkle and flavor boost. Sometimes, a light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a pretty finishing touch, especially for kids’ parties. For a festive look, you could toss on mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts—these add a nice texture contrast and look adorable on a platter.

Side Dishes

These soft pretzels pair beautifully with fresh fruit like apple slices or berries to balance the sweetness. For a brunch gathering, I like serving them alongside a fresh yogurt parfait or a light salad to round out the plate. If you’re going all in on comfort food, pair with a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve found that arranging the pretzels on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping cream cheese frosting and extra cinnamon sugar creates an inviting spread. At holidays, I’ve shaped some into mini pretzels for bite-sized snacks, which are crowd-pleasers. You could also thread the pretzels on skewers for a playful “pretzel kabob” presentation that’s fun for kids and adults alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I store the pretzels plain in an airtight container at room temperature—they keep well for 2-3 days. Avoid coating them in cinnamon sugar until right before eating so the topping doesn’t get soggy or sticky. This simple trick helps maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze baked pretzels before adding cinnamon sugar topping by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When I thaw them, I let them come to room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven to regain softness before adding the cinnamon sugar and serving.

Reheating

Reheat pretzels in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to warm through without drying them out. I avoid the microwave because it can make them chewy or rubbery. Once warm, brush with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar—fresh and delicious every time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels with Cream Cheese Frosting Dip Recipe enough if you want that warm, sweet, and soft treat that feels like a little hug in every bite. Making these from scratch might seem intimidating, but once you get going, it’s so much fun and ridiculously rewarding. Trust me—you’ll enjoy every step, from mixing the dough to the very last dip into that creamy frosting. So grab your ingredients and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

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