Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: 7 Comforting Delights

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 18, 2025

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There’s something utterly magical about making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels right in your own kitchen. The joy of twisting that dough into perfect pretzel shapes brings back memories of bustling fairs and cozy snack times. And let me tell you, the air fryer transforms these treats into crispy, golden delights while keeping the inside soft and chewy – pure heaven! Just imagine pulling them out, the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon sugar filling your home, and that first bite – oh wow, it’s so satisfying. These pretzels are perfect for movie nights, afternoon snacks, or just a little pick-me-up when you need a treat. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to for a quick, tasty snack that never disappoints!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels - detail 1

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

To create these delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup warm water: Make sure it’s warm, not hot, to help activate the yeast.
1 packet active dry yeast: This is what gives your pretzels that lovely rise.
2 tablespoons sugar: This will sweeten the dough and help the yeast do its magic.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Essential for the dough’s structure, giving it that perfect chew.
1 teaspoon salt: A must to enhance flavors and balance the sweetness.
1/4 cup baking soda: This is used for boiling the pretzels, giving them their unique texture.
1 tablespoon melted butter: For brushing on top, adding richness and a lovely shine.
1/2 cup sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping, bringing that sweet crunch.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star of the show, adding warmth and flavor to your pretzels.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels is a fun and rewarding process. Just follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a batch of warm, crispy pretzels in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a frothy layer on top – this means your yeast is happy and ready to work its magic!
Make your dough: Once the yeast is activated, add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix it until a dough starts to form. Don’t worry if it looks a bit shaggy at first; that’s normal!
Knead it out: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. You want it to feel smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it!
Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This is crucial for getting those fluffy pretzels!
Preheat your air fryer: While the dough is rising, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your pretzels cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
Shape the pretzels: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently, and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long and twist it into a pretzel shape. You’ve got this!
Boil the pretzels: In a large pot, bring about 4 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. This step is key for that chewy texture we all love!
Brush and sprinkle: After boiling, place the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with melted butter, then mix the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon together and sprinkle it generously on top.
Air fry to perfection: Finally, air fry the pretzels for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and smell divine. Keep an eye on them – they can go from perfect to overdone pretty quickly!

And there you have it! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying these delightful treats. Remember, the key steps are letting the dough rise and the boiling process – don’t skip those!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels. They bring a delightful twist to your snacking game, and I can’t wait for you to experience them! Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

Quick preparation: You can whip these up in just about 40 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous cravings or unexpected guests.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master these pretzels without breaking a sweat!
Delicious flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon sugar and chewy pretzel dough creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
Healthier than traditional frying: Air frying means less oil, so you can enjoy that crispy goodness without the guilt of deep frying.

Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why these pretzels are a hit!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels turn out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:

Adjust the cinnamon sugar: Feel free to tweak the ratio of sugar to cinnamon based on your taste. If you love that cinnamon kick, add a bit more!
Watch the dough consistency: When kneading, aim for a smooth, elastic dough. Don’t be afraid to add a touch more flour if it feels too sticky – just don’t go overboard!
Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise until it doubles in size is crucial for fluffy pretzels. Patience is key!
Keep an eye on the air fryer: Every air fryer is a bit different, so check on your pretzels a minute or two before the timer goes off to avoid overcooking.

With these tips, you’ll be a pretzel-making pro in no time!

Variations of Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Once you’ve mastered the classic Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels, the fun doesn’t have to stop there! Here are some delicious variations to try:

Chocolate Drizzle: After air frying, drizzle some melted chocolate over the pretzels for a decadent twist.
Maple Sugar: Swap out the cinnamon sugar for a mix of brown sugar and a hint of maple syrup for a delightful autumn flavor.
Herbed Pretzels: For a savory spin, mix dried herbs like rosemary or garlic powder into the dough before shaping it into pretzels.
Stuffed Pretzels: Roll the dough into a flat circle, add a piece of cheese or chocolate in the center, and fold it over for a stuffed treat!

Experimenting with these variations can lead to a whole new favorite, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their lovely chewiness and flavor. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can also freeze them! Just wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag – they’ll stay good for up to a month.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend popping them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it or they may get a bit chewy. Enjoy your pretzels warm, just like they’re fresh out of the fryer!

Nutritional Information

Each warm and delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a manageable addition to your diet. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 pretzel):

Calories: 150
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 10mg

These pretzels are a great way to indulge without going overboard, making them perfect for any snack time!

FAQ about Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Got questions about making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:

Can I use whole wheat flour? Absolutely! You can swap part or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat. Just keep in mind it might change the texture a bit, making them denser.
How do I know when my pretzels are done? They should be golden brown and smell incredible! A light touch should feel springy, indicating they’re cooked through.
What if my dough doesn’t rise? Check your yeast! If the water was too hot or too cold, it might not activate. Always aim for warm water, around 110°F (43°C).
Can I make these pretzels ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions – I’m here to help you enjoy these delicious treats!