If you have a serious sweet tooth and a love for soft, chewy snacks, you are in for an absolute treat with this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe. These little bites pack all the warm, cozy flavors of classic soft pretzels combined with the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon sugar. Imagine sinking your teeth into soft, pillowy dough coated in a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar crust that’s perfect for any time of day—from an afternoon snack to a late-night delight. Getting these bites just right is easier than you think, and once you try them, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite homemade goodies to share and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each ingredient plays a special role to give you the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that classic pretzel color and chew.
- Warm water (1 1/2 cups, 110-115°F): Activates the yeast gently and ensures a tender dough.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and adds just a hint of sweetness to the dough base.
- Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic starter that makes your dough rise and become beautifully airy.
- All-purpose flour (4 1/2 cups): The sturdy foundation of the dough that gives structure and chewiness.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and a soft texture to the bites.
- Water (10 cups): Used for boiling, creating the iconic soft pretzel crust with baking soda.
- Baking soda (2/3 cup): Essential for that traditional pretzel exterior with a golden, chewy finish.
- Egg yolk (1 large) beaten with 1 tablespoon water: Gives the pretzels that beautiful glossy sheen.
- Cinnamon sugar mixture (1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon): The sweet coating that makes these bites irresistibly delicious.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the surface and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This shows your yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
Next, stir in the all-purpose flour and melted butter into the yeast mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine until a sticky dough forms. Then, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading step is what develops the structure and stretchiness you want in your pretzel bites.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place your smooth dough ball in an oiled bowl, cover it lightly, and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size, becoming airy and soft. When it’s ready, punch it down gently and divide it into small equal pieces—these will become your perfect pretzel bites.
Step 4: Shape and Boil the Pretzel Bites
Shape each piece into a small, bite-sized ball. Meanwhile, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Carefully drop the dough pieces into the boiling water in batches, cooking each for about 30 seconds. This brief boil with baking soda helps create the signature chewy crust and deep pretzel color.
Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar
Using a slotted spoon, remove the boiled pretzel bites and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush each bite with the beaten egg yolk mixture — this ensures a shiny, golden finish once baked. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mix for that lovely sweet crunch.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the prepared pretzel bites for about 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. That final step locks in all the flavors and textures, resulting in warm, fluffy, and aromatic bites that are pure comfort food perfection.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these soft pretzel bites even more, try dusting a little extra cinnamon sugar right when they come out of the oven. For an extra indulgence, you can drizzle melted white chocolate or cream cheese glaze for a decadent touch that contrasts beautifully with the cinnamon.
Side Dishes
These bites pair wonderfully with some creamy vanilla ice cream for dessert or a rich caramel dipping sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. For a brunch twist, serve them alongside a warm fruit compote or even a savory cream cheese spread for a balance of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin to add a cozy feel. You can also thread them onto skewers for fun party treats or arrange them around a bowl of warm chocolate sauce for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the bites soft, avoid refrigeration as this tends to dry out the dough.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite treat whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pretzel bites in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bites chewy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough?
Granulated sugar is preferred because it dissolves easily and activates the yeast effectively, but if you only have regular sugar, it will still work—just ensure it’s finely ground for best results.
Why do I need to boil the pretzel bites in baking soda water?
Boiling in baking soda water creates the signature chewy crust and gives the pretzels their classic deep brown color. It’s an essential step to get that authentic soft pretzel texture.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment and mix on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This can save time and effort when kneading by hand.
Is there a healthier alternative to the sugar and cinnamon topping?
You can reduce the sugar slightly or substitute with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or a mix of cinnamon and a touch of maple sugar for a more nutrient-rich option without losing flavor.
How do I prevent the pretzel bites from drying out?
Make sure to store them properly in airtight containers away from the fridge, and enjoy them within a couple of days. Reheating in the oven briefly also helps restore softness.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe a try—it’s one of those wonderfully simple treats that bring so much happiness in every bite. Whether you’re sharing at a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these pretzel bites are cozy, sweet, and absolutely addictive. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 64 pretzel bites
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy cinnamon sugar pretzel bites, perfect as a sweet snack or party appetizer. These bite-sized treats have a golden crust with a warm cinnamon sugar coating, offering a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors.
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 mixing bowl, combine the warm water (between 110-115°F), granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: Add the all-purpose flour and the melted unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms, then turn onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the pretzel bites: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into manageable pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into small bite-size pieces, approximately 1 inch each, forming the pretzel bites.
- Boil the pretzel bites: Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Carefully add the pretzel bites in batches to the boiling water. Boil them for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place them onto lined baking sheets.
- Apply egg wash and cinnamon sugar: Brush each pretzel bite generously with the egg yolk beaten with water. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top to coat evenly.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes or until they have turned a deep golden brown color on top.
- Serve warm: Remove the pretzel bites from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm for the best soft and chewy texture with a sweet cinnamon sugar finish.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature for activating yeast is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading dough well develops gluten, which is key to the soft texture of pretzel bites.
- Boiling the pretzels in baking soda water gives them their characteristic chewy crust and distinctive flavor.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor in the cinnamon sugar topping.
- These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a less sweet version, reduce the cinnamon sugar topping or skip it.
