Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks (Sweet, Crunchy & Totally Snackable!)

Thank you so much for stopping by — I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you because it’s one of those treats that’s dangerously addictive in the best way. These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are sweet, crunchy, buttery, and kissed with warm spice. They’re like churros and pretzels had a sweet little snack baby — and once you try one, there’s no going back!

Perfect for holiday gifting, movie night munching, party snacking, or just to satisfy your sweet-salty craving, these golden sticks of joy take less than 30 minutes start to finish. Yes, really.

✨ Want more quick, crowd-pleasing treats like this sent straight to your inbox? Make sure to subscribe below for weekly recipe inspiration!

What Are Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks?

These aren’t your average pretzels. We’re taking crunchy pretzel sticks, tossing them in melted butter, vanilla, and lightly whipped egg white, then coating them in a sweet blend of cinnamon sugar (with optional cardamom for a twist!). Baked until crisp and golden, they come out sweet, spiced, and completely irresistible.

It’s a fast, no-fuss recipe that transforms a bag of pretzels into a sweet-and-salty treat that’s perfect for gifting, nibbling, and party platters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy — 10 minutes of prep, no mixer required!
Perfect balance of sweet, salty, buttery, and spiced
A great make-ahead snack or edible gift
Easy to double or triple for a crowd
Just 6–7 ingredients — all pantry staples!

What Do They Taste Like?

Each stick is crunchy and golden, wrapped in a buttery blanket of warm cinnamon sugar. The egg white helps the coating adhere and crisp up in the oven, so you get that delightful sweet crunch with every bite. The optional cardamom adds a whisper of something extra — aromatic, cozy, and subtly exotic.

Think churro energy, but with the crunch of a pretzel and a hint of salt to balance the sweet.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

16 oz pretzel sticks
¾ cup butter, melted
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
1 egg white
1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cardamom (optional but recommended!)

🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for spice blend
Whisk or fork
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone mat
Spatula or spoon for tossing

🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins

Substitutions:

Use mini pretzels or pretzel twists instead of sticks — just reduce bake time by 2–3 minutes.
Brown sugar can replace half the white sugar for a caramelized flavor.
Swap cardamom with pumpkin spice or a pinch of nutmeg for a seasonal twist.

Additions:

Drizzle with white or dark chocolate after baking for an extra treat.
Add crushed freeze-dried apples or strawberries for a fruity pop.
Mix in toasted pecans or almonds after baking for crunch contrast.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture

In a large bowl, melt ¾ cup butter and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Whisk in 1 egg white and 1½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine:

1¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon
½ tsp cardamom (if using)
Stir and set aside.

Step 4: Coat the Pretzels

Add 16 oz of pretzel sticks to the butter mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
Gradually sprinkle in the cinnamon sugar mixture, tossing until the pretzels are well coated.

✨ Go slow and toss gently so the coating sticks to every pretzel.

Step 5: 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.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the pretzels cool completely on the baking sheet. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool.

Break apart any clusters and store in an airtight container once fully cooled. Serve and enjoy!

🥨 What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks

These pretzel sticks are perfect on their own but also shine in:

Snack boards or dessert grazing tables
Crumbled over ice cream or yogurt
Paired with a cup of coffee, tea, or cider
Packed in holiday tins or treat bags as edible gifts
Served with cream cheese dip or chocolate ganache

💡 Tips for Success

Let the butter cool slightly before adding the egg white to prevent scrambling.
Stir pretzels gently when coating — you want to avoid breaking them.
Don’t skip stirring halfway through baking for even crisping.
Let them cool completely before storing to keep them crunchy.

🧊 Storage & Gifting Tips

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Make Ahead: Great for prepping a few days before a party or holiday.
Gifting: Pack into cellophane bags, jars, or treat boxes tied with ribbon — perfect for hostess gifts or neighbor treats!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use mini pretzels instead of sticks?

Absolutely! Just keep an eye on the baking time — they may cook faster.

Can I skip the egg white?

The egg white helps the coating stick and crisp — but if you’re avoiding eggs, try replacing it with 2–3 tbsp of corn syrup for a similar effect.

Can I make these spicy-sweet?

Totally! Add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the cinnamon sugar mix for a fun twist.

Do these stay crunchy?

Yes — as long as they’re stored in an airtight container after cooling. Don’t skip the cooling step!

❤️ Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are the kind of treat you’ll make once… and then keep making over and over again. They’re crunchy, cozy, sweet with a hint of salt, and ridiculously easy to throw together. The perfect last-minute snack or holiday crowd-pleaser!

So go ahead — grab that bag of pretzels and make something extra special today. You’re going to love how simple and satisfying this sweet little recipe is.

🥨 More Snackable Treats to Try

📸 Baked This Recipe?

I’d love to see your pretzel creations!
Leave a review, tag me on Pinterest, or share a photo — let’s spread the cinnamon sugar love! 💛

🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx. 14 servings)

Calories: ~210
Fat: 10g
Carbs: 30g
Sugar: 16g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 190mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on brand of pretzels and ingredient substitutions.