If you’re searching for a snack that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and salty with an addictive crunch, look no further than this Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe. These little bites bring together the cozy warmth of cinnamon, the caramelized sweetness of sugar, and the satisfying snap of classic pretzels, all baked to golden perfection in your oven. Whether you’re craving an after-school treat, a party snack, or just something to nibble on during a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite go-to. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll vanish faster than you can say cinnamon!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about the Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s the rich coconut oil that adds a subtle sweetness and helps everything adhere, the sugar that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, the warm cinnamon for that inviting aroma, or the pretzels that bring the perfect salty crunch. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 3/4 cup coconut oil (vegetable oil can be used as another option): Coconut oil gives the pretzels a light, natural sweetness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick wonderfully.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: This sugar caramelizes gently in the oven, creating the signature sweetness and crunch in every bite.
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides that unforgettable warm and cozy flavor that makes these pretzels so addictive.
- 16 oz twisted pretzels: The classic salty twist of pretzels offers the perfect contrast to the sweet cinnamon coating.
How to Make Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
First, melt your coconut oil in a large mixing bowl until it’s just liquid enough to combine smoothly. Then stir in your granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, mixing until the blend is perfectly even. This mixture is where that amazing coating magic happens, so making sure it’s well combined is key!
Step 2: Add the Pretzels
Next, pour your bag of twisted pretzels right into the bowl with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Don’t worry if you lack fancy kitchen tools here — a sturdy mixing bowl and spoon are all you need.
Step 3: Toss to Coat Evenly
Using a spatula or large spoon, gently but thoroughly toss the pretzels until every single one is generously coated in that sweet and spicy cinnamon sugar blend. It’s important to be gentle so the pretzels keep their delightful crunch and shape but still get fully covered.
Step 4: Spread Pretzels on Baking Sheet
Lay a single layer of the coated pretzels on an 11×13-inch baking sheet. Spreading them evenly helps ensure they bake uniformly and get that wonderful toasty, crunchy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop those beauties into a preheated oven at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. Be sure to watch closely because the sugar can brown quickly. Remove the pretzels as soon as the sugar starts to darken a bit — this keeps them from burning while still getting that perfect sweet crunch.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let your pretzels cool on the baking sheet for a minute or two. This step lets the cinnamon sugar set and the pretzels crisp up even more. Then dive in — these are irresistible warm but also delicious once fully cooled.
How to Serve Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, toss your finished pretzels with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted white chocolate. Both add a hint of visual flair and a new layer of sweetness that’s perfect for special occasions or gifting.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon-coated pretzels pair wonderfully with a creamy dip like vanilla yogurt or a smooth cream cheese frosting. For something more decadent, a side of warm caramel or chocolate sauce turns this snack into a truly indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving these Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe in colorful bowls or mason jars makes for charming snack stations at parties or casual get-togethers. Wrap some in cellophane tied with a ribbon, and you’ve got fabulous homemade gifts that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of these sweet and crunchy pretzels left (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their crispness and keeps them fresh for up to a week.
Freezing
You can also freeze the pretzels once they’re fully cooled. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature—no baking needed!
Reheating
If you want to bring back that freshly baked warmth after storage, just pop your pretzels in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 3 minutes. This warms them through and revives the crisp texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different oil instead of coconut oil?
Absolutely! Vegetable oil works just fine in this recipe and will yield similarly delicious results if you don’t have coconut oil on hand.
What type of pretzels is best for this recipe?
Twisted salted pretzels are ideal because their shape and saltiness create the perfect contrast with the cinnamon sugar coating, but any crunchy pretzel variety will do.
How long can I store these cinnamon pretzels?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these pretzels remain crunchy and delicious for about 5 to 7 days at room temperature.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the traditional pretzels with your favorite gluten-free pretzel brand and follow the recipe as usual.
Is it possible to make these pretzels spicier or less sweet?
Certainly! Adjust the amount of cinnamon for more or less spice, and tweak the sugar quantity to match your preferred sweetness level. This recipe is very flexible.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely comforting and joyful about making the Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe at home. It’s quick, easy, and yields a treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking bites when nobody’s looking, these pretzels are sure to brighten your snack time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These Sweet & Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels are a quick and easy snack combining the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon sugar with the salty crunch of pretzels. Perfect for a last-minute treat or a shareable snack, they bake to a perfect toasted finish that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup coconut oil (vegetable oil can be used as an alternative)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 16 oz twisted pretzels
Instructions
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture: Melt the coconut oil in a large mixing bowl. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
- Coat the pretzels: Add the twisted pretzels to the bowl with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the pretzels until each one is evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the coated pretzels in a single layer on an 11×13 inch baking sheet to ensure even baking and toffee-like coating.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch the pretzels closely and remove them from the oven as soon as the sugar darkens slightly to avoid burning.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pretzels to cool for 1 to 2 minutes on the baking sheet. This helps the coating to set and ensures a crunchy texture. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Vegetable oil can be used if you do not have coconut oil; it will still coat the pretzels well.
- Watch the pretzels carefully during baking as sugar can burn quickly.
- These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can increase the ground cinnamon to 4 tablespoons.
- This recipe is easy to double or halve depending on how many servings you want to prepare.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
