Main Ingredients:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup warm water (100-110°F)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup warm milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
6 cups water
1/4 cup baking soda
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
To ensure your pretzels turn out soft and chewy, start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir them together and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. Once it turns frothy, you’ll know the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, warm milk, and melted butter. This is where your pretzels will get that rich, fall flavor. Once the mixture is smooth, add in the activated yeast. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour, but avoid adding too much as it can make the pretzels dense.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about an hour. During this time, the dough should double in size, developing that classic fluffy texture we all love in soft pretzels.
Step 4: Shape the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, then twist it into the traditional pretzel shape.
Step 5: Boil the Pretzels in Baking Soda
The boiling step is what gives these pretzels their signature chewy crust. Bring 6 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Gently drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn a deep golden brown. This step ensures they are cooked through and have a slightly crispy outer layer.
Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the pretzels are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter. Immediately after, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve these pretzels warm, as they taste best fresh out of the oven!