Name: Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; ⅓ cup baking soda; 6 cups water; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons butter, melted

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If you’re searching for a snack that’s equal parts playful, cozy, and utterly irresistible, look no further than these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites. Imagine little pillows of golden pretzel dough, brushed with butter and tumbled in a blanket of sweet cinnamon sugar—the kind of treat that instantly transports you to a bustling bakery or a fun day at the fair. Whether you’re serving them at a party, making them with kids, or just indulging your own sweet tooth, these bites are guaranteed to spark joy and satisfy every craving.

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t you just love a recipe that turns pantry staples into something magical? Each of these ingredients has a special role—some bring flavor, others add the signature chew, and a couple make that cinnamon sugar finish pop! Here’s what you’ll need for your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites:

Warm water (1 ½ cups, 110°F): The perfect temperature helps the yeast wake up and start building that fluffy texture.
Active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons, 1 packet): This is what gives your pretzel bites their signature rise and pillowy softness.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon, plus ½ cup for topping): A little sweetness in the dough, and plenty for that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating.
All-purpose flour (4 cups): The sturdy base for your dough, ensuring the right amount of chew and softness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons melted for dough, 4 tablespoons melted for topping): Adds richness to the dough and helps the cinnamon sugar stick like a dream.
Baking soda (⅓ cup, for boiling): This is your secret weapon for that classic pretzel flavor and beautifully bronzed crust.
Water (6 cups, for boiling): Used with baking soda to give the bites their signature pretzel finish.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Warm, fragrant, and the star of the topping show.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites

Step 1: Wake Up the Yeast

Start by combining your warm water, active dry yeast, and one tablespoon of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir just to combine, then let it sit for about five minutes. You’ll soon see the surface get foamy—proof that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and two tablespoons of melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. This step is where you build that signature chewy pretzel texture!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. The dough should double in size—don’t rush this part, as it sets the stage for super fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites.

Step 4: Shape and Cut

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto your work surface. Divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about one inch thick, then cut each rope into one-inch bites. You’ll end up with dozens of adorable little pretzel pillows, ready for their next transformation.

Step 5: Boil in Baking Soda Bath

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring six cups of water and a third cup of baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Working in batches, drop the dough bites into the boiling solution for 20 to 30 seconds each. This step gives your bites that classic pretzel chew and deep golden color. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pretzel bites for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. The scent that fills your kitchen at this stage is pure heaven—you’ll know you’re on the right track!

Step 7: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Topping

While the bites are still warm from the oven, brush them generously with your melted butter. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Toss the buttery bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re thoroughly coated. Get ready—these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are about to disappear fast!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites

Garnishes

For a bakery-worthy finish, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top just before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar adds that final festive touch. These little details make your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites truly special.

Side Dishes

Serve your pretzel bites with a side of cream cheese icing, caramel sauce, or even chocolate ganache for dipping. Pair them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn snack time into dessert heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites high in a basket lined with a colorful napkin, or skewer them on sticks for a playful twist. For parties, arrange them on a platter with multiple dipping sauces so everyone can mix and match their favorites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any bites left (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, especially if you tuck a small piece of bread in the container to help retain moisture.

Freezing

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites freeze beautifully before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely, then seal in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just thaw and reheat whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring leftover bites back to life, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. A quick warm-up makes them taste freshly baked and gets the cinnamon sugar extra fragrant all over again.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! If you use instant yeast, you can skip the proofing step and add it directly to the dry ingredients. Your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites will still rise beautifully and taste just as delicious.

Is it possible to make these vegan?

You sure can! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The texture and flavor will still be spectacular.

Do I really need to boil the pretzel bites in baking soda water?

Yes, that quick baking soda bath gives the pretzel bites their classic chewy crust and deep golden color. It’s a signature step that makes them truly authentic!

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking for the best results.

What dipping sauces go best with Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites?

Cream cheese icing and caramel sauce are top choices, but don’t overlook chocolate ganache or even a simple vanilla glaze. Each one adds a new layer of indulgence to your bites.

Final Thoughts

When you want to bring a little extra warmth and fun to your kitchen, these Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are just the ticket. They’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to make everyone smile—so go ahead, give them a try and watch them disappear!

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Deliciously soft and chewy Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture, perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. This easy homemade recipe involves a simple yeast dough boiled in baking soda water to achieve that classic pretzel texture, then baked to golden perfection and tossed in cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Boiling

⅓ cup baking soda
6 cups water

Topping

½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

Activate yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active and ready.
Make dough: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for a chewy texture.
First rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size, allowing the dough to become airy and light.
Preheat oven and prepare boiling solution: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil; this step helps create the classic pretzel crust.
Shape pretzel bites: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 6 equal pieces, roll each into a 1-inch thick rope, and cut into 1-inch bites for uniform baking.
Boil bites: Working in batches, boil the pretzel bites in the baking soda water for 20–30 seconds. This is crucial for texture and flavor. Then transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake the bites in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown, achieving that perfect soft yet slightly crispy exterior.
Apply topping: While warm, brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly, adding a sweet and buttery finish.
Serve: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture experience.

Notes

These pretzel bites are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven to restore softness and warmth.
For a fun variation, serve with cream cheese icing or caramel dipping sauce to complement the cinnamon sugar flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking, Boiling
Cuisine: American