Irresistibly Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Strawberry Pretzels Recipe

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines warm, gooey sweetness with the fresh burst of fruit, the Irresistibly Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Strawberry Pretzels Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These soft pretzels, kissed with cinnamon sugar and infused with luscious strawberry jam and juicy strawberries, strike the perfect balance between comforting and refreshing. From the moment you bite into their golden crust to the lingering aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, they make every snack time feel like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is all you need to create a truly memorable snack. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect blend of texture, flavor, and vibrant color that makes this recipe so special.

• 1 cup warm water (110°F): Essential for activating the yeast and bringing the dough to life with a soft, fluffy texture.
• 2 teaspoons dry active yeast: The magical agent that gives your pretzels their perfect rise and airy softness.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a subtle depth and moisture that keeps the pretzels tender and flavorful.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Enriches the dough’s taste and texture; dairy-free cooks can swap with coconut oil.
• ½ cup strawberry jam or puree: Infuses the dough with a natural sweetness and a gorgeous pinkish hue.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A small touch that lifts the overall flavor with its warm, inviting note.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the structure needed to hold these soft pretzels together perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness for a harmonious flavor experience.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Coats the warm pretzels, adding a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides that classic cinnamon sugar flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• 1 cup frozen or fresh strawberries: Adds vibrant fruity bursts that complement the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully.

How to Make Irresistibly Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Strawberry Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by mixing the warm water with dry active yeast and brown sugar in a large bowl. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and alive, signaling that your yeast is ready to work its magic on the dough.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Next, stir in the melted butter, luscious strawberry jam or puree, and the vanilla extract. This combination turns the dough into a flavor powerhouse, making sure every bite is bursting with sweet, fruity goodness.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Slowly add your flour and kosher salt, mixing until a soft dough begins to form. The flour gives it the perfect chewy texture, while the salt balances all that sweetness.

Step 4: Knead to Perfection

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. This develops the gluten, giving your pretzels that satisfying chew that you’ll love.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and set it somewhere warm for about an hour. Watch as the dough doubles in size, signaling it’s ready for shaping.

Step 6: Shape the Pretzels

After the rise, punch the dough down gently and divide it into 12 portions. For a fun twist, shape each into a heart and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a charming presentation.

Step 7: Boil Before Baking

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil, then dip each pretzel in for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through. This step creates the iconic chewy crust that makes pretzels so wonderful.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the boiled pretzels for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown that will have your kitchen smelling incredible.

Step 9: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Brush the warm pretzels with melted butter, then generously roll them in a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This sweet, crunchy coating is the signature touch that makes this recipe truly irresistible.

Step 10: Final Touch and Serve

Allow the pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm. These treats are best enjoyed fresh, when the cinnamon sugar is still delightfully crisp and the strawberries add their sweet surprise.

How to Serve Irresistibly Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Strawberry Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop, sprinkle some powdered sugar or a drizzle of strawberry glaze over the pretzels. Fresh sliced strawberries make a stunning, tasty garnish to complement the strawberry-infused dough.

Side Dishes

Pair these pretzels with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. They also make a fantastic companion to a hot cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these pretzels on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper and add small bowls of strawberry jam and cinnamon sugar for dipping. Arranging them into a festive wreath for a party centerpiece is sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cinnamon sugar strawberry pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This preserves their softness and sweetness without drying them out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, wrap the pretzels individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to one month, making it easy to satisfy your cravings anytime.

Reheating

To revive the warm, fresh-baked feel, reheat the frozen or stored pretzels in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their soft interior and brings the cinnamon sugar coating back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries will add a juicy burst of flavor and can be chopped or pureed to stir into your dough, giving the pretzels a natural freshness that’s delightful.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap out the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative to keep it dairy-free while still maintaining that rich, buttery taste and texture.

How do I know when the yeast is activated properly?

Your yeast mixture should become frothy and bubbly after resting for about 5 minutes in warm water mixed with sugar. This indicates the yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise.

Can I shape the pretzels into something other than hearts?

Definitely! Classic pretzel shapes or simple knots work wonderfully too. Feel free to get creative with fun shapes that suit the occasion or your mood.

What’s the best way to enjoy these pretzels?

They’re incredible fresh and warm, straight from the oven with that cinnamon sugar coating still slightly crispy. Pairing them with tea or dessert toppings makes them even more special.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Irresistibly Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Strawberry Pretzels Recipe, you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover it sooner. Soft, sweet, and bursting with bright strawberry flavor, these pretzels are perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a cozy moment by yourself. Don’t wait—turn your kitchen into a sweet bakery today and let these delightful pretzels steal the show!

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