Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and brown sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree and melted butter into the yeast mixture. Slowly add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzels
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and 1/3 cup of baking soda to a boil.
- Shape Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 18 inches long) and twist into a traditional pretzel shape.
Step 3: Boil and Bake the Pretzels
- Boil the Pretzels: Working with 1-2 pretzels at a time, carefully drop them into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- Melt Butter: While the pretzels are baking, melt the 1/4 cup of butter in a small bowl.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Coat the Pretzels: Once the pretzels are done baking and slightly cooled, brush them with melted butter and generously coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels:
- Pumpkin Flavor: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
- Boiling the Pretzels: Don’t skip the baking soda boil! It’s crucial for achieving the chewy texture and signature pretzel flavor.
- Storing: These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dips: Serve with a cream cheese or caramel dipping sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with Drinks: These pretzels pair beautifully with a pumpkin spice latte, hot cider, or coffee for a cozy fall treat.
Conclusion:
Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are a delightful autumn-inspired twist on classic soft pretzels. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and sweet cinnamon sugar makes these pretzels a perfect snack or dessert to enjoy during the fall season. Soft, chewy, and full of warm flavors, these pretzels will quickly become a seasonal favorite!