Name: Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon; 1 cup canola or vegetable oil; 5 cups pretzels (mini, waffle, or basket-weave); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; sprinkles (optional)

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of sweet and salty. Enter Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels, a perfect treat that marries the crunch of pretzels with the rich sweetness of chocolate and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack to satisfy your cravings or a fun treat to share at a gathering, these pretzels are sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delectable bites that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels hit all the right notes. The salty pretzels provide a perfect counterpoint to the sweet chocolate and the warm notes of cinnamon, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. They’re also super versatile – perfect for parties, movie nights, or even as a fun addition to a gift basket. Plus, who can resist the colorful sprinkles that add a touch of whimsy? These pretzels are not just snacks; they’re an experience!

What to Buy

Canola or vegetable oil: This will be used to coat the pretzels, adding a nice sheen and helping the sugar stick.
Granulated sugar: Essential for that sweet cinnamon sugar topping.
Light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor, enriching the sweetness.
Cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth to the recipe.
Pretzels: Mini, waffle, or basket-weave pretzels work best; avoid large open pretzels for this recipe.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The creamy base that binds the flavors together.
Sprinkles: Optional, but they bring a fun, festive touch to the finished pretzels.

Cook’s Kit

Mixing bowl: For combining your sugars and cinnamon.
Baking sheet: To spread out the pretzels for coating.
Spatula or spoon: For mixing and coating the pretzels evenly.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate chips.
Cooling rack: To let the chocolate set without making a mess.

Cook Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels Like This

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon. Set this mixture aside; it will become the delightful coating for your pretzels.

Step 3: Coat the Pretzels

In a large bowl, drizzle 1 cup canola or vegetable oil over 5 cups pretzels. Toss the pretzels gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the pretzels, tossing again until they are well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Pretzels

Spread the coated pretzels evenly across the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until they are slightly crisped and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

While the pretzels are baking, place 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Drizzle with Chocolate

Once the pretzels have cooled slightly, take them out of the oven. Use a fork to drizzle the melted chocolate over the pretzels, ensuring every bite gets that rich chocolatey goodness.

Step 7: Add the Sprinkles

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle your choice of colorful sprinkles over the pretzels. This step is optional but adds a festive touch.

Step 8: Let Them Cool

Allow the pretzels to cool on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, until the chocolate has hardened. For quicker results, you can place them in the refrigerator for a few minutes.

Make It Diet-Friendly

Use dark chocolate chips: For a richer flavor and slightly less sugar.
Opt for a sugar substitute: If you want to cut down on calories, consider using a sugar alternative for the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Whole grain pretzels: Choose whole grain or gluten-free pretzels to cater to dietary restrictions.
Reduce the sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference, making these pretzels less sweet.

Learn from These Mistakes

Don’t skip the oil: It helps the sugar adhere to the pretzels, creating that perfect coating.
Watch the baking time: Overbaking can lead to hard pretzels instead of a crunchy, satisfying texture.
Use the right type of pretzels: Not all pretzels are created equal. Mini, waffle, or basket-weave pretzels are best for this recipe.
Be generous with the chocolate drizzle: It’s the star of the show, so don’t be shy!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Here are some tips:

Store the finished pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Each will give a different flavor profile to your pretzels.

What type of pretzels should I use?

For the best results, mini, waffle, or basket-weave pretzels are ideal. They hold the chocolate and cinnamon sugar well. Avoid larger pretzels as they may not coat as evenly.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Yes! Feel free to get creative. Chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or even drizzles of caramel can be added for extra texture and flavor.

How do I know when the pretzels are done baking?

The pretzels should be slightly crisp and fragrant when done. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, as baking times may vary based on your oven.

Bring It Home

Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Pretzels are more than just a quick snack; they are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing them with friends and family, these pretzels are sure to be a hit. With their sweet and salty flavor profile, they cater to all taste buds, making them perfect for gatherings or simply an indulgence during a cozy night in. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously fun treat that’s perfect for any time of the year!