Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
Ingredients:
For the Pretzels:
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
3 tablespoons pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
4 cups water
1/4 cup baking soda
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and brown sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbles form.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the pumpkin puree to the yeast mixture, then gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda (be careful, as it will bubble up).
5. Shape the Pretzels:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 18-20 inches long). Twist each rope into a pretzel shape.
6. Boil the Pretzels:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds, then place it on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake:
Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
8. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
Once the pretzels are baked, brush each one generously with melted butter. Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle or roll the pretzels in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well-coated.
9. Serve:
Enjoy these Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels warm for the best texture. They pair perfectly with a warm fall drink like apple cider or pumpkin spice latte!