On my current big ‘ole pregnant state, I have been craving all the sweets lately. So it seemed only fitting to make some pretzel bites covered in cinnamon and sugar. Now that I know how to make homemade soft pretzels, I make them all the time.

I love me some carbs.

I’ve made them regular and made then big and fluffy with beer in the batter and now I’ve cut them up into bite sized pieces and coated in cinnamon sugar.

So yeah…

Perfect sweet tooth satisfier.

What are Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites?

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites are a twist on the classic pretzel, combining the chewy texture of a pretzel with the sweet, spicy kick of cinnamon sugar. Originating from the traditional German pretzel, these bites have been adapted to suit a variety of tastes and occasions. Perfect for snacking, these bites are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

1. Versatility: These bites can be served as a snack, dessert, or even a breakfast treat.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cinnamon and sugar is universally loved, making these bites a hit at any gathering.
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Water: Essential for activating the yeast and creating the dough’s structure.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• Active, Dry Yeast: The leavening agent that makes the dough rise, giving the pretzel bites their fluffy texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, as well as a buttery coating for the final product.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the dough, providing the perfect balance of chewiness and softness.
• Baking Soda: Used in the boiling process to give the pretzels their characteristic chewy texture and golden-brown color.
• Egg Yolk: Helps achieve a shiny, golden crust on the pretzel bites.
• Granulated Sugar: Combines with cinnamon to create a sweet, spicy coating.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Butter: You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you have dietary restrictions.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or other natural sweeteners can be used in place of granulated sugar.

How to Make this Recipe

Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Add water to a small bowl and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds to warm the water to about 110° F. Whisk in sugar and sprinkle yeast over top. Let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast begins to foam.

Mix the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer with the dough hook, pour yeast mixture. Add melted butter and salt and stir. Keeping the mixer on low, add flour and knead until a soft dough ball forms. It should be smooth and begin to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Let the Dough Rise: Turn dough out onto an oiled surface. Add about 1 Tbsp. olive or vegetable oil to a bowl and return dough ball to bowl. Cover bowl with plastic wrap or towel and let sit in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 425° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Boil the Pretzel Bites: In a medium saucepan, whisk baking soda into 10 cups water. Heat to boiling. In a small bowl, whisk together large egg yolk and 1 Tbsp water. Set aside.

Shape the Dough: Remove dough to an oiled surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 22-24 inches long and slice into 1″ pieces.

Boil and Bake: Working in batches, boil dough bites for 30 seconds and remove onto prepared baking sheet, making sure not to crowd the sheet and that the pieces are not touching each other. Brush tops with egg yolk mixture. Bake at 425° F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While pretzels are baking, add 1 cup sugar and 1 Tbsp cinnamon to a large gallon bag or large bowl and mix to combine. Add melted butter to a separate bowl. After pretzels have cooled slightly, working in batches again, dunk in melted butter and then coat in cinnamon sugar mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is not too hot or too cold when activating the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110° F.

Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.

Boiling: Boiling the pretzel bites in baking soda water gives them their characteristic chewy texture and golden-brown color.

Serving Suggestions

Dipping Sauces: Serve with caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or even a cream cheese dip for an extra indulgent treat.

Presentation: Arrange the bites on a platter with a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center for a visually appealing presentation.

Storage Suggestions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing: Freeze the baked pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.

How do I know when the pretzel bites are done? They should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites are a delightful treat that combines the best of both sweet and savory worlds. With their chewy texture and sweet coating, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade pretzel bites. Happy baking!