If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s perfectly soft on the inside with a delightful cinnamon kick on the outside, then you absolutely need to try this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe. These little bites of heaven combine the chewy goodness of classic pretzels with a sparkling cinnamon sugar coating that makes every bite irresistibly comforting. They bake up golden brown, coated in buttery sweetness, and are just perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Whether you’re entertaining friends or looking for a cozy snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe quickly becomes a beloved go-to that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up these Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites is easier than you think because the ingredients are wonderfully simple and each one plays a crucial role. From the chewy texture given by the dough to the buttery cinnamon sugar that gives these bites their signature flavor, every ingredient matters.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness that balances with cinnamon to coat each bite beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice that is essential for that classic cinnamon sugar flavor.
- 2 pounds pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, at room temperature): Provides the soft, chewy pretzel base that holds everything together.
- 1/3 cup baking soda: Helps create that authentic pretzel texture by changing the dough’s texture when boiled.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Gives the pretzels a beautiful golden-brown finish and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar cling lovingly to every bite.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your pretzel bites bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. This mix will become the iconic coating that gives your pretzel bites their irresistible flavor and sparkle.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into four equal strips. Roll each strip into a long rope about 12 to 14 inches long. Then, cut these ropes into 1-inch pieces, which will later become your perfect bite-sized treats.
Step 4: Boil With Baking Soda
Heat 6 cups of water with the baking soda in a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil. Working in batches, drop the dough pieces into this bubbling bath for about 30 seconds. This step makes the exterior chewy and gives the pretzels their classic texture. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain them well.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the boiled dough pieces on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about half an inch apart. Brush each with the beaten egg, which helps them bake up golden and shiny. Pop them into the oven and bake for 9 to 12 minutes until beautifully golden brown.
Step 6: Toss in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Once baked, work in batches to toss the warm pretzel bites in melted butter and the cinnamon sugar mixture. This locks in the flavors and wraps each bite in a buttery, sweet coating that’s absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites straight away to enjoy them at their soft, fresh, warm best.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe
Garnishes
While these bites shine perfectly on their own, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze can elevate their presentation and flavor to scrumptious new heights. A pinch of flaky sea salt can also add an unexpectedly delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet pretzel bites with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert twist. They also taste amazing dipped in warm chocolate or caramel sauce, adding layers of indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, serve the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites in a large bowl surrounded by small ramekins of various dips like cream cheese frosting, apple butter, or honey mustard. You can also thread them on skewers for a whimsical snack display that’s easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They remain soft but will lose some of their fresh-from-the-oven charm, so enjoying them sooner is best.
Freezing
These bites freeze well! After baking and cooling, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer bag and store for up to two months. This way, you’ll always have a sweet snack ready when cravings hit.
Reheating
To bring those frozen or leftover bites back to life, reheat them in a 350-degree oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This revives their warmth and buttery coating beautifully without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dough instead of pizza dough?
Pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe due to its elasticity and texture, but you can experiment with soft pretzel dough if you want a more authentic pretzel flavor. Avoid bread doughs that are overly dense or sweet, as they might change the bite’s texture.
What can I substitute for baking soda if I don’t have any?
Baking soda is crucial for creating the proper pretzel texture by altering the dough surface during boiling, so there isn’t a true substitute. If you skip it, the pretzel bites won’t develop their characteristic chewiness and color.
Can I make these pretzel bites vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based dough, substitute the butter for a vegan margarine or coconut oil, and replace the egg wash with a simple brush of almond milk or aquafaba to get a similar golden finish.
Why do we boil the dough in baking soda water?
Boiling the dough in baking soda water gives pretzels their chewy crust and distinctive flavor. This alkaline bath changes the dough’s pH level, allowing for that classic rich brown color and glossy exterior once baked.
How long will the cinnamon sugar coating stay fresh?
The cinnamon sugar coating tastes best immediately after tossing while the pretzels are warm. Over time, the sugar might crystallize a bit, making the bites less soft. For the best experience, enjoy them fresh or reheat gently as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe is one of those magical little snacks that can brighten any day. Easy to make, endlessly delicious, and packed with warm cinnamon goodness, these bites will quickly win a spot on your list of comfort foods to share and savor. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make these sweet, soft treats a new favorite in your kitchen.
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Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Delight in these warm, soft Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites—a perfect sweet snack made from tender pizza dough, boiled in baking soda water for that classic pretzel texture, baked to golden perfection, and generously coated in melted butter and cinnamon sugar. Ideal for parties, cozy afternoons, or anytime you crave a comforting treat.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Bites
- 2 pounds pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, at room temperature)
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon together thoroughly and set aside for later use in coating the pretzel bites.
- Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into four equal strips. Roll each strip into a long rope approximately 12-14 inches long, then cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to form the pretzel bites.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: In a medium saucepan, bring six cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, drop the dough pieces into the boiling water and cook them until they puff slightly and develop dimples, about 30 seconds. Remove the pretzel bites using a slotted spoon and drain well.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the boiled pretzel bites on the prepared baking sheets with about a 1/2-inch space between each. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg to help achieve a golden brown crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the pretzel bites until they turn golden brown, approximately 9-12 minutes.
- Coat with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, toss the pretzel bites in a bowl with the melted butter and the cinnamon sugar mixture in batches, ensuring each bite is evenly coated to maximize flavor.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon sugar pretzel bites warm for the best taste and texture. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or party appetizer!
Notes
- Use room temperature pizza dough for easier shaping and better texture.
- Boiling in baking soda water is key to achieving the classic pretzel crust and flavor.
- Work in batches when boiling and coating to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking and coating.
- These bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
- You can adjust the cinnamon sugar amount depending on your sweetness preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
