Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels

If you’re craving a snack that’s sweet, crunchy, and a little bit addictive, these Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels are going to be your new obsession. They’ve got that perfect mix of salty pretzels coated in warm cinnamon-sugar goodness, lightly baked until the coating sticks just right. It’s the kind of snack that makes your whole kitchen smell amazing—sweet, cozy, and perfect for sharing (though fair warning: you might not want to share).

Recipe Origin:

Cinnamon-sugar coated snacks have been around forever, but this version brings that nostalgic fairground flavor right into your kitchen. Think of them as the fun cousin of cinnamon-sugar donuts—lighter, crunchier, and way easier to whip up.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why You’ll Love Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels

Easy & Quick: Only four ingredients and minimal prep time.
Sweet Meets Salty: That magical combo of flavors you can’t stop snacking on.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, game nights, or holiday treat bags.
Make-Ahead Friendly: They keep well, so you can prep them in advance.
Kid-Approved: Fun to make and eat together.

Ingredients in Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels

(Note: the full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.)

Coconut Oil (or Vegetable Oil): Helps the cinnamon-sugar stick to every pretzel.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the mix for that candy-like coating.
Ground Cinnamon: Warm and cozy spice that makes these irresistible.
Pretzels: Twisted pretzels give the best crunch and perfect surface for coating.

Instructions

Prep the Coating: Melt coconut oil (or use vegetable oil) in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, stir together sugar and cinnamon until fully blended.
Coat the Pretzels: Place pretzels in a large mixing bowl. Pour melted oil over them and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix over the pretzels, tossing until every piece is covered.
Bake: Spread pretzels evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Cool & Serve: Allow to cool completely so the coating sets, then enjoy or package for gifting.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: About 12
Calories per serving: ~180 (depending on pretzel type and oil used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels

• Party Snack: Pile them in a big bowl for movie night or game day.
• Holiday Treat Bags: Wrap in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for edible gifts.
• Sweet & Salty Mix: Combine with nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips.
• Dessert Topping: Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: These can be made 1–2 days in advance with no loss of flavor.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: Not recommended—the coating may lose its crunch.

Variations to Try

• Pumpkin Spice Pretzels: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in the coating.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate.
• Vanilla Sugar: Add a teaspoon of vanilla sugar to the coating for extra depth.
• Maple Twist: Use maple sugar instead of granulated sugar for a cozy fall vibe.

Additional Tips

• Stir halfway through baking to avoid clumping.
• For extra crunch, let them bake an extra 5 minutes (just don’t burn the sugar).
• Use mini pretzels for bite-sized snacking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use butter instead of oil?
A1: Yes, melted butter will work and give a richer flavor, though the coating may not stay as crunchy.

Q2: Do I have to bake them?
A2: Yes—the baking step helps set the cinnamon-sugar coating.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely, just use gluten-free pretzels.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
A4: Definitely! Just spread pretzels evenly over two baking sheets.

Q5: How do I keep them crunchy?
A5: Store in a completely airtight container once fully cooled.

Conclusion

Crunchy Oven-Baked Cinnamon Pretzels are one of those dangerously simple recipes—you make them once and suddenly they become your go-to snack for every occasion. Sweet, spiced, and a little salty, they hit every craving in one bite. Whether you’re making a batch for family movie night or packing them into festive holiday bags, these pretzels bring comfort and joy in the easiest way possible.

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