Sweet and Spicy Cinnamon Pretzel Sticks

Craving a snack that’s both irresistible and easy to make? These Sweet and Spicy Cinnamon Pretzel Sticks are the perfect answer. With a crispy texture and a delightful blend of cinnamon and sugar, these pretzels are a treat that everyone will love. Ideal for parties, tailgates, or just a cozy night in, they offer a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to beat. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!

Ingredients

• 16 oz bag of pretzel sticks
• ¾ cup butter, melted
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 egg white
• 1 ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cardamom

Preparation

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your pretzels bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
2. Melt and Cool the Butter: In a large bowl, melt the butter. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This is important to prevent the heat from scrambling the egg white when added.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Once the butter has cooled, whisk in the egg white and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Prepare the Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the white sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). The cardamom adds a unique, aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
5. Coat the Pretzels: Add the pretzel sticks to the bowl with the butter mixture. Toss the pretzels until they are thoroughly coated with the buttery mixture. Gradually sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the pretzels, tossing gently to ensure an even coating.
6. Bake: Spread the coated pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 16-18 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even baking. The pretzels should be golden brown and aromatic.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the pretzels cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them apart. The cooling process helps the sugary coating set, making them even more delicious.

Bonus Tip

For an extra touch of elegance, package these pretzel sticks in decorative bags and tie them with a ribbon. They make charming gifts for the holidays or any special occasion. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking can also enhance the sweet and spicy flavor.

Conclusion

These Sweet and Spicy Cinnamon Pretzel Sticks are the perfect combination of crunchy and sweet with a hint of spice. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re an excellent snack for any gathering or a delightful treat to enjoy on your own. With their delightful aroma and irresistible taste, these pretzels are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, and savor the deliciousness!