Description
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks
Ingredients:
12 pretzel rods
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup white chocolate, melted
1/4 cup caramel sauce
Preparation:
Dip pretzel rods in melted butter. Roll in a sugar-cinnamon mixture.
Drizzle melted white chocolate and caramel sauce over the pretzels.
Let them cool and set for 10 minutes. Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a sweet pairing!
#CaramelPretzelPerfection
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks every time.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will catch drips and make cleanup easy.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Pour the melted butter into a separate, tall glass or narrow bowl. This shape makes it easier to fully coat the long pretzel rods.
- Working one at a time, dip a pretzel rod into the melted butter, rolling it to coat completely. Allow any excess butter to drip back into the container.
- Immediately roll the butter-coated pretzel in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a spoon to help press and coat it evenly on all sides. Place the finished rod on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 with all remaining pretzel rods.
- Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth and melted.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag with a tiny tip, drizzle the melted white chocolate in a zig-zag pattern over the pretzel sticks.
- Repeat the drizzling process with the caramel sauce.
- Allow the pretzel sticks to set at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or until the drizzles have hardened.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these pretzel sticks can be elevated with creative pairings. Serve them alongside a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream for a classic sweet-and-salty combo. For a party, arrange them upright in a tall glass or mug as a centerpiece. They also make a fantastic garnish for milkshakes or hot chocolate. Consider offering small bowls of extra caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping.
How-to Summary
In short: Dip pretzel rods in melted butter, roll in a cinnamon-sugar blend, then drizzle with melted white chocolate and caramel. Let set before serving for a crunchy, sweet, and salty treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pretzel sticks instead of rods?
Yes, but the process will be faster. Use a fork to dip the smaller sticks in butter and roll them in sugar. The yield will be higher.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The pretzels may lose some crispness over time.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?
Absolutely. Any type of melted chocolate or candy melts will work beautifully for drizzling.
My chocolate is too thick for drizzling. What can I do?
Add a tiny amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening (about 1/4 teaspoon) to the melted chocolate and stir. This will thin it to a perfect drizzling consistency.
Is there a way to make this recipe less messy?
For easier coating, place the cinnamon-sugar mixture in a long, gallon-size plastic bag. After dipping in butter, place the rod in the bag, seal it, and shake gently for an even coat with minimal mess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold butter: The butter must be fully melted and slightly cooled so it adheres properly without sliding off.
- Skipping the parchment paper: This leads to a sticky, difficult cleanup as the caramel and chocolate harden on your pan.
- Drizzling before the sugar sets: Ensure the cinnamon-sugar layer is no longer wet before adding drizzles, or they may slide off.
- Overheating the chocolate: Microwave in short bursts and stir to avoid seizing, which makes it grainy and unusable.
- Rushing the setting time: If served too soon, the drizzles will be messy and won’t provide that satisfying snap.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are a deceptively simple treat that delivers maximum flavor and crunch. By following this step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create an impressive dessert or snack that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and spicy notes. They are versatile for any occasion, from a cozy family movie night to a festive party platter. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of this #CaramelPretzelPerfection.
