Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
There’s truly nothing better than popping a warm, pillowy-soft treat straight from the oven, especially when that treat is Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites. Imagine sinking your teeth into golden, fluffy bites rolled in sweet cinnamon-sugar and still glistening from a bath of melted butter—comfort food bliss in every mouthful! Whether you’re after the perfect party snack or a cozy treat for a quiet night in, these homemade gems are easier to make than you think and outrageously delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples come together to create the magic of Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites. Each ingredient has its own special part to play, from texture to flavor to that irresistible golden hue. Grab these essentials—you probably already have most in your kitchen!
- Warm water (1 1/2 cups, 110°F): The ideal temperature helps activate the yeast for that beautiful, fluffy rise.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons, 1 packet): This is what gives the pretzel bites their signature pillowy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon for dough + 3/4 cup for coating): A touch of sweetness helps feed the yeast and gives the final coating its delightful crunch.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation of the dough—choose unbleached for a slightly chewier texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): It’s a simple addition that really enhances the overall flavor of your bites.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons for dough + 1/2 cup for coating): Butter in the dough and in the finishing step creates extra tenderness and rich, decadent flavor.
- Baking soda (2/3 cup): Boiling in baking soda is the secret to that classic pretzel flavor and chewy skin.
- Water (8 cups, for boiling): You’ll need a large potful for the crucial pretzel bath that gives the bites their signature texture.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Fragrant and warming, it elevates the sugar topping to next-level scrumptiousness.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
Step 1: Start the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine your warm water, active dry yeast, and a spoonful of granulated sugar. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll see it turn bubbly and foamy—this means your yeast is alive and ready to do its job!
Step 2: Mix and Knead
Stir in the all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Knead by hand (or in a stand mixer) for 5 to 7 minutes—don’t skimp here, as this develops that irresistible pretzel chew. The dough should be smooth and elastic when you’re done.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and set it in a warm spot. Let the dough rise for 45 to 60 minutes until it has doubled in size. Watching it puff up is so satisfying and totally worth the wait!
Step 4: Shape and Cut the Bites
Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide into six equal pieces and roll each into a rope, about 1/2 inch thick. With a sharp knife or dough cutter, slice each rope into adorable 1-inch bites. They’ll look small now but will puff up deliciously when baked!
Step 5: Boil in Baking Soda Bath
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment. Bring 8 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Working in batches, drop the bites into the boiling water for about 20 to 30 seconds—this step is what gives the pretzels their classic crust. Remove with a slotted spoon and space them out on your baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide the trays into your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the pretzel bites are bronzed and puffy. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible—this is when everyone starts gathering around!
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar Magic
While the bites are still warm, dip each one in melted butter and then roll generously in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This is the moment when Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites become absolutely irresistible. Serve immediately for peak coziness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
Garnishes
For a pretty finish and extra flavor, sprinkle your bites with a dusting of more cinnamon or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting or vanilla glaze. A little extra melted butter brushed on top never hurts!
Side Dishes
Pair your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites with mugs of creamy hot chocolate, bold coffee, or homemade chai. They also play nicely alongside a fruit salad for brunch, or as a playful dessert after a savory meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pretzel bites stacked high on a rustic platter, tucked in a parchment-lined basket, or strung onto skewers for a whimsical party tray. Try arranging them around a bowl of cream cheese dip for crowd-pleasing, dippable fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (a rare scenario, trust me!), stash them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them super fresh, add a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
These bites freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, arrange the pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready for a treat, just reheat and add the butter and cinnamon-sugar coating fresh.
Reheating
To revive the soft, chewy texture, pop the bites in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. If you want that just-made magic, brush with a touch more melted butter and dust with cinnamon sugar again right before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The baked bites also keep well and can be reheated with great results.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute equal amounts of instant yeast for active dry yeast. You can skip the proofing step and mix the yeast right into your dry ingredients.
What’s the key to really soft pretzel bites?
The dough’s initial kneading and the rise time are critical for achieving that signature softness. Don’t skip the baking soda bath, as it also contributes to the classic pretzel bite texture.
Can I make these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites vegan?
Definitely! Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter and double-check that your sugar is vegan-friendly. The results will be just as soft, sweet, and delicious.
How can I make these pretzel bites even more decadent?
Dip or drizzle with cream cheese frosting, white chocolate, or even a caramel sauce. Or, serve with a side of Nutella for the ultimate indulgence!
Final Thoughts
Once you try Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites, you’ll want them at every get-together and cozy night at home. Their soft, buttery insides and sparkly cinnamon-sugar coating make them just magical—so grab your ingredients and treat yourself (and your favorite people) to a batch soon!
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Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes rising time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are a delightful treat, perfect for snacking or as a sweet dessert. Soft, fluffy pretzel bites coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Boiling and Coating:
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 8 cups water (for boiling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Roll out dough, cut into bites.
- Boil and Bake: Boil bites in baking soda water, then bake until golden brown.
- Coat the Pretzel Bites: Dip in melted butter, then coat in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat in the oven for best texture
- Serve with cream cheese frosting or vanilla glaze for dipping
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 8 bites
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
