If you crave a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines a delicate chewiness with a sweet and spicy twist, you are going to adore this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe. These bite-sized beauties are the perfect snack to share or enjoy solo alongside your favorite warm drink, offering a delightful balance of soft dough, rich cinnamon, and just the right amount of sugar. From the golden crust to the soft, tender center, every single bite bursts with flavor that feels as comforting as a warm hug. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for snacking joy and dessert cravings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand, each playing a key role in crafting those perfect, fluffy pretzel bites. From the yeast that gives life to the dough to the cinnamon sugar that provides that iconic sweet coating, every item is essential for achieving the ideal taste, texture, and color.
- Warm water (110-115°F): Perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
- Kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Active dry yeast: The key agent to make your dough rise and get airy.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness essential to pretzels.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
- Water (for boiling): Used with baking soda for that classic pretzel crust texture.
- Baking soda: Creates the distinct pretzel bite crust by alkalizing the water bath.
- Egg yolk mixed with water: Gives the pretzel bites a golden, shiny finish.
- Cinnamon sugar mixture: The star topping—sweet, spicy, and irresistible.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Start by combining the warm water, granulated sugar, and kosher salt in a bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
Next, mix in the all-purpose flour and melted unsalted butter into the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together, then knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten for that classic chewy texture you’ll love in each bite.
Step 3: Let the dough rise
Place your dough in a nicely greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, which usually takes about an hour. This rise is what will give your pretzel bites their light, pillowy interior.
Step 4: Shape the pretzel bites
Once risen, punch down the dough gently and divide it into small portions. Roll each into little logs and cut into bite-sized pieces. These small pieces make perfectly sized pretzel bites that are easy to share and dip.
Step 5: Prepare the alkaline water bath
Bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a gentle boil in a large pot. Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 30 seconds each, then remove them with a slotted spoon. This step is crucial for developing that signature pretzel crust.
Step 6: Add finishing touches and bake
Place the boiled pretzel bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each with the egg yolk and water mixture to get a lovely golden shine. Then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture before popping them into a preheated oven. Bake until the pretzel bites are golden brown and irresistibly aromatic.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Garnishes
While the cinnamon sugar topping is fantastic on its own, you can elevate these bites with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra indulgence. Freshly chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts also bring a satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
These soft pretzel bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Cream cheese frosting or a vanilla glaze offers a creamy complement, while caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery contrast. For an unexpected twist, try them alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider or hot chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or cozy nights in, serve these pretzel bites in a festive bowl with small dipping cups around the edges. You can also thread them on skewers alternating with marshmallows or fruit for a fun, interactive snack experience. Presentation really makes eating these even more exciting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe treats can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Just make sure they’re completely cool before storing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the pretzel bites after baking and cooling by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They last for up to 2 months frozen and thaw quickly in just a few minutes at room temperature or wrapped in a towel.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked magic, reheat the pretzel bites in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore their golden crust and warm, soft center just like when they first came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I make this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe gluten-free?
While this recipe relies on all-purpose flour for structure, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, and some adjustments to liquid ratios might be necessary.
What is the purpose of the baking soda bath?
The baking soda water bath alkalizes the dough’s surface, which creates the pretzel’s characteristic shiny, chewy crust while giving it its unique flavor and texture that’s different from regular bread.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! If you use instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour instead of activating it in warm water first. Just reduce the water slightly and adjust rising times accordingly.
How do I prevent the pretzel bites from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents sticking but also promotes even browning and makes cleanup easier.
Are there any savory variations of this recipe?
Absolutely! Skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle your pretzel bites with coarse salt and herbs like garlic powder or rosemary before baking for a delicious savory twist.
Final Thoughts
If you want a snack that combines warmth, sweetness, and that wonderful soft pretzel texture, give this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe a try. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging in anytime. Once you taste these bites, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about turning this recipe into a staple whenever the craving hits. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 64 pretzel bites 1x
Description
Delight in these soft, warm Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites that combine the comforting flavors of freshly baked pretzels with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect as a snack or party appetizer, these bite-sized treats offer a chewy texture with a golden crust, made easy with a simple dough and baking soda bath to achieve the classic pretzel flavor.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Boiling Solution
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
Topping
- 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
- Cinnamon sugar mixture: 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water (110-115°F), granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Sprinkle the active dry yeast evenly over the surface of the liquid and let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour and melted unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape Pretzel Bites: Punch down the dough and divide it into smaller portions. Roll each portion into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Shape each piece into a pretzel bite or simply leave as small dough pieces.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Apply Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush each pretzel bite generously with the beaten egg yolk mixture. Immediately sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Bake: Bake the pretzel bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving warm, enjoying the soft interior and sweet cinnamon sugar crust.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature for activating the yeast is between 110-115°F to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
- You can adjust the cinnamon sugar ratio to taste if you prefer sweeter or less sweet pretzel bites.
- Boiling the pretzel bites in baking soda water is key to developing the traditional chewy texture and rich color.
- These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh the pretzels before serving again.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
