Explainer From monks to malls, how pretzels traveled centuries to become one of America’s most beloved snacks Published April 28, 2026 1:33PM (EDT) Pretzels on pink background (Tanja Ivanova / Getty Images) Everyone has that one food item, be it an elaborate meal or a humble snack, that unlocks even the deepest of core memories. For me, it’s the fresh-baked cinnamon sugar pretzel from Auntie Anne’s . Growing up, it was a must-have treat after long trips with my mom to the local shopping mall. Just the thought of those pretzels is enough to transport me back. There’s the chewiness of the dough, the warm aroma of melted butter, cinnamon and sugar united in holy matrimony. Each bite is guaranteed to be a delicious medley of both sweet and spice, never just plain browned crust. Over the past decade, I’ve fallen victim to the online shopping epidemic , meaning I haven’t stepped foot inside a mall and enjoyed an Auntie Anne’s pretzel in years.…