Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels: A Fall Delight to Try!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup baking soda; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for topping)

Posted on October 2, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall. That’s where these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a hug in snack form. Perfect for busy days, these pretzels are easy to whip up and will impress your loved ones. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering, these pretzels are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms like us. The soft, chewy texture paired with the sweet cinnamon sugar topping is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some pumpkin goodness, making them a seasonal favorite that everyone will adore. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels. Here’s what you’ll need:

Warm water: This activates the yeast, making your pretzels rise beautifully.
Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that gives your pretzels that delightful fluffiness.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors and help the yeast work its magic.
Pumpkin puree: This adds moisture and that lovely fall flavor we all crave.
Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the overall taste, making it even more comforting.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your pretzel dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Salt: Essential for flavor; it brings out the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar topping.
Baking soda: Used in the boiling process, it gives the pretzels their signature golden-brown color.
Egg: A beaten egg wash gives the pretzels a shiny finish and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
Cinnamon sugar: The star topping that adds a sweet, spicy crunch to each bite.

For those looking to experiment, you can add more pumpkin puree for a stronger flavor or even swap out the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper taste. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, chewy pretzels in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Stir gently to mix, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This is the yeast waking up, and it’s a crucial step for fluffy pretzels!

Step 2: Mix in Pumpkin and Vanilla

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, it’s time to add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Stir them in until everything is well combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, while the vanilla gives a lovely warmth to the dough. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Form the Dough

Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form. You want it to be soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour. This dough is the foundation of your pretzels, so take your time to get it just right!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Now comes the fun part—kneading! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic texture. Think of it as giving your dough a little workout. This step helps develop the gluten, which gives your pretzels that perfect chewy bite.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size. This is the dough’s time to shine, so be patient! It’s worth the wait.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your pretzels from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. A hot oven is key to achieving that golden-brown color we all love!

Step 7: Boil the Pretzels

In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and 1/2 cup of baking soda to a boil. This step is essential for creating that classic pretzel crust. Once boiling, carefully drop each pretzel into the water for about 30 seconds. This gives them that chewy texture and beautiful color.

Step 8: Shape the Pretzels

After boiling, it’s time to shape your pretzels! Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist it into a pretzel shape. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll still taste amazing! Just have fun with it!

Step 9: Bake the Pretzels

Place your shaped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. Bake them for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!

Tips for Success

Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s crucial for that classic pretzel texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dough.
Keep your workspace floured to prevent sticking while shaping the pretzels.
Let the pretzels cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor.

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl for combining ingredients; a glass or ceramic bowl works well.
Floured surface: A clean countertop or cutting board for kneading the dough.
Pot: A large pot for boiling the pretzels; any deep pot will do.
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Whisk or fork: For mixing the egg wash; a simple fork will suffice.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pretzels gluten-free.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dough for an extra kick of fall flavor.
Cheesy Pretzels: Incorporate shredded cheese into the dough for a savory twist on the classic recipe.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the pretzels for a sweet and decadent treat.
Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon sugar, brush with a maple syrup glaze for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Warm Apple Cider: Pair these pretzels with a steaming cup of warm apple cider for a cozy fall treat.
Cheese Dip: Serve with a creamy cheese dip for a savory contrast to the sweet pretzels.
Festive Platter: Arrange pretzels on a decorative platter with fresh fruit and nuts for a beautiful presentation.
Ice Cream: Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels

Can I make these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

What can I do with leftover pretzels?

If you have any pretzels left, store them in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their chewy texture!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Fresh pumpkin will give your pretzels a lovely flavor, but be mindful of the moisture content.

What’s the best way to serve these pretzels?

These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels are best served warm. Pair them with warm apple cider or a creamy cheese dip for a delightful contrast. They make a perfect snack for fall gatherings!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the pretzels?

Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet pretzel, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the dough. You can also adjust the cinnamon sugar topping to your taste. Enjoy experimenting!

Final Thoughts

Making these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Pretzels is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of kneading the dough, the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take that first bite are priceless. These pretzels are perfect for cozy family nights or festive gatherings, bringing everyone together. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of these pretzels fill your home with warmth and happiness!