Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels

If autumn had a flavor, this would be it. These Pillowy Pumpkin Spice Pretzels wrap everything you love about fall into a soft, buttery twist of joy. They’re warm, cozy, slightly sweet, and kissed with those dreamy pumpkin pie spices that make your whole kitchen smell like a hug. Imagine pulling a golden-baked pretzel from the oven, brushing it with melted butter, then dusting it in cinnamon-sugar goodness—trust me, you’re going to love this. Whether you’re sipping on a chai latte or entertaining friends, these pretzels are your cozy companion. Bonus? They’re easier to make than you think, and way more satisfying than anything from the mall.

Why You’ll Love Pillowy Pumpkin Spice Pretzels

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking with kids, planning a festive brunch, or treating yourself on a cozy night in, these pretzels rise to the occasion. Here’s why they’re a total favorite:
Versatile: Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat, a cozy snack, or even serve with a cream cheese dip for dessert.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples, including canned pumpkin and flour—nothing fancy, just delicious.
Quick and Easy: No fancy mixer required, and the dough comes together without stress.
Customizable: Add a maple glaze, dip in melted chocolate, or spice them up with extra nutmeg or cardamom.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a soft pretzel, and the pumpkin twist makes it feel special and seasonal.

Ingredients in Pillowy Pumpkin Spice Pretzels

Here’s what makes these pretzels pure autumn magic:

All-Purpose Flour

The foundation of our pretzel dough, providing structure and chew. It’s what gives these twists their bakery-style texture.

Canned Pumpkin Puree

Adds moisture, a subtle earthiness, and beautiful color. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.

Brown Sugar

A touch of sweetness and a hint of molasses richness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Active Dry Yeast

Our rising hero! Helps create that pillowy, soft texture you’ll love biting into.

Warm Water

Activates the yeast and helps bind the dough. Think warm but not hot—like a cozy bath for your yeast.

Pumpkin Pie Spice

The star flavor. A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings warmth to every bite.

Salt

Essential for balance. It enhances all the sweet and spicy notes in the dough.

Baking Soda

Used for the traditional baking soda bath, which gives the pretzels their iconic chewy exterior.

Unsalted Butter

Melted and brushed on top after baking, because buttery pretzels are simply irresistible.

Cinnamon Sugar

The final touch—a light dusting makes these taste like a pumpkin-spiced dream.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit until foamy. Then stir in pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Let Rise

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This gives the pretzels their signature fluff.

Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough, roll into ropes, and twist into pretzel shapes. This is where you can have fun—make hearts, twists, or classic loops!

Give Them a Soda Bath

Gently dip each pretzel in a warm baking soda bath. This is what gives them their chewy exterior and golden-brown finish.

Bake to Perfection

Place the pretzels on a baking sheet and bake until puffy and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point—like fall just walked in and gave you a hug.

Butter and Sugar

Brush the warm pretzels with melted butter, then generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. The butter helps it stick and melt into all the nooks and crannies.

Serve and Savor

Serve warm and enjoy the soft, buttery, spiced perfection. They’re best fresh but reheat beautifully too.

How to Serve Pillowy Pumpkin Spice Pretzels

These pretzels are a dream on their own, but here’s how to take them to the next level:
With Dips: Serve with maple cream cheese dip, vanilla glaze, or even a dollop of whipped cream cheese.
As Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for an indulgent twist.
With Coffee or Cider: Perfect alongside a hot mug of apple cider, spiced tea, or a strong latte.
Holiday Brunch Boards: Include these on a fall breakfast spread with fruits, jams, and spreads.
Gift-Worthy: Wrap in parchment and twine for a beautiful homemade gift.

Additional Tips

Room Temp Ingredients: For best dough texture, make sure your pumpkin and water are at room temperature.
Don’t Skip the Soda Bath: This step is what gives that signature chewy crust—don’t be tempted to skip it.
Make Ahead: Shape the pretzels and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning!
Freezer Friendly: Freeze after baking and reheat in the oven for a quick treat.
Use a Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and helps the bottoms brown evenly.
Double the Sugar: For extra indulgence, dip the buttered pretzels into a bowl of cinnamon sugar instead of sprinkling.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A1: Absolutely! Just make sure it’s not too watery—drain excess liquid for the best texture.

Q2: What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
A2: You can make your own! Use cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A3: Yes! Prepare the dough, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temp before shaping.

Q4: Do I need to do the baking soda bath?
A4: It’s strongly recommended. It gives that chewy texture and deep color—but in a pinch, you can bake without it.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Q6: Can I reheat these pretzels?
A6: Yes! Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes or pop in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Q7: Can I make these gluten-free?
A7: Try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and be sure to knead gently.

Q8: Can I skip the sugar topping?
A8: Of course. You can serve them plain or with a savory butter if preferred.

Q9: Can I make mini versions?
A9: Yes! Roll the dough into smaller ropes and adjust baking time to 8–10 minutes.

Q10: Can I use instant yeast instead?
A10: Yep! Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your kitchen now smells like a cozy autumn bakery, and you’ve got a batch of warm, golden Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels ready to impress. These beauties are soft, chewy, and filled with that irresistible blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin goodness. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, a cozy night in, or just because you’re craving something special, this recipe brings all the fall vibes in the most delicious way.

Trust me, once you take that first bite—warm, fragrant, slightly sweet with a buttery finish—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. So go ahead, pour yourself a mug of something warm, grab a soft pretzel (or two), and savor every spiced, doughy moment. You’ve just found your new favorite autumn treat.

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