If you have a sweet tooth and a love for snacks that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. Imagine warm, fluffy pretzel bites generously coated in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, delivering that iconic cozy flavor with every bite. Whether you’re serving these at a party, for a family movie night, or just craving something homemade and irresistible, this recipe hits all the right notes with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that bring out the best in each component. Get ready to fall in love with the magic of cinnamon sugar on freshly baked pretzels!

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every dish starts with the right ingredients, and this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe is no exception. These basics combine to create that irresistible texture and warm flavor that make pretzels so comforting. From the yeasty dough to the magical cinnamon sugar coating, each ingredient plays a starring role.

Warm Water (1 1/2 cups): The perfect temperature awakens the yeast for a nice, fluffy dough rise.
Sugar (1 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
Active Dry Yeast (0.25 oz or 1 packet): The magical ingredient that makes your pretzels light and airy.
Salt (1 tsp): Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s taste.
Flour (3 1/2 cups): Provides structure and that soft yet chewy texture.
Baking Soda (1/4 cup): Creates the iconic pretzel crust when boiled in water.
Sugar (1 cup): Main component of the sweet cinnamon sugar coating.
Cinnamon (2 tbsp): Brings warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with sugar.
Unsalted Butter, melted (4 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a foamy bubble layer forms on the surface, signaling that your yeast is perfectly alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the flour and salt into the yeast mixture. Stir the flour in with a spoon until it just begins to come together. Then, switch to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on medium-low speed for around 6 to 8 minutes. The dough should turn shiny and pull away cleanly from the bowl’s sides—this is what a good, elastic pretzel dough looks like.

Step 3: First Rise

Lightly oil your mixing bowl and place the dough back inside, covering it with a kitchen towel. Set it aside in a warm spot to rise for one hour, or until it doubles in size. This rise makes the dough airy and soft, a key step for perfect pretzel bites.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to a scorching 450°F (232°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your pretzel bites bake evenly and are easy to lift off without sticking.

Step 5: Shape the Pretzel Bites

Punch down the risen dough gently to release the air. Cut it into 1/4 cup-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin log and then chop into 3/4 to 1-inch pieces. Arrange these little dough gems on your prepared baking sheets without letting them touch or overlap.

Step 6: Boil the Pretzel Bites

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and carefully stir in the baking soda—it will bubble up vigorously. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the pretzel pieces in small batches. Boil each batch for about one minute, turning them halfway through to ensure an even, glossy crust forms.

Step 7: Drain and Arrange

Using a slotted spoon, fish the boiled pretzel bites out and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheets. Make sure they sit in a single layer to bake to perfect golden brown.

Step 8: Bake Pretzels

Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes until the pretzel bites develop that signature rich golden-brown hue and a lovely crusty exterior. Keep an eye on them—they should be beautifully baked through but not too dark.

Step 9: Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Once out of the oven, let the pretzel bites cool for about 10 minutes so they’re warm but not too hot to handle. Brush them generously with melted butter, then immediately toss or coat them with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This last step delivers all the sweet, spiced goodness that makes this dessert truly addictive.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can be lovely garnishes to elevate your Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe further. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves into the cinnamon sugar mix for added warmth and depth.

Side Dishes

These pretzel bites pair beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream or a rich caramel dipping sauce. You can also serve them alongside a cup of hot coffee or spiced apple cider, turning an afternoon snack into a cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Pop your pretzel bites into a decorative bowl lined with parchment paper, or skewer several on mini sticks for a playful, easy-to-share dessert. Arrange them on a party platter surrounding small cups of cream cheese frosting or chocolate sauce for dipping—guaranteed to be the centerpiece of your snack table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pretzel bites, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to two days, maintaining their softness and cinnamon sugar coating.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the baked and coated pretzel bites in a sealed container or freezer bag. When properly stored, they keep well for up to three months—perfect for prepping snacks in advance.

Reheating

To enjoy your pretzel bites warm after storage or freezing, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their crispy outside and soft inside, reviving the brilliant cinnamon sugar flavor as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface. It just might take a few more minutes of kneading to get that smooth and elastic texture the recipe calls for.

Why do I boil the pretzel bites in baking soda water?

Boiling in baking soda water creates the distinctive pretzel crust and color. It chemically alters the dough’s surface, helping it bake into that chewy, golden-brown coating we all love in pretzels.

Can I use cinnamon sugar seasoning substitutes?

While cinnamon sugar is the classic topping, you can experiment by mixing in other spices like nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or even a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. Just be mindful of the balance so the sweetness doesn’t get lost.

Is it okay to skip the cinnamon sugar coating?

You could skip it, but it really defines the character of this recipe. The cinnamon sugar adds warmth, sweetness, and that irresistible flavor combo that makes these pretzel bites special and memorable.

How do I know when pretzel bites are fully baked?

They should be a deep golden brown color and have a firm but tender feel. If they look pale, they probably need a few more minutes. The baking time works as a guide, but visual cues are important too.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe is one of those wonderful treats you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, cozy, and full of flavor, perfect for bringing a little homemade joy to any day. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and share the warm, sugary magic with friends and family—you’ll be glad you did!

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe

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4.1 from 49 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Delightfully soft and chewy Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites, perfect for snacking or sharing. These homemade pretzel bites feature a classic yeast dough boiled in baking soda water before baking to achieve that authentic pretzel texture, then coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 1/2 cups warm water (between 100° and 110° F)
1 tablespoon sugar
0.25 ounces active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup baking soda

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water and sugar. Add the active dry yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Make the Dough: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir flour in with a spoon until a dough begins to form, about 1 minute. Attach the dough hook to the mixer and knead on medium-low speed for 6-8 minutes until the dough is shiny and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
First Rise: Remove the dough hook, lightly oil the mixer bowl, and place the dough ball back in. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheets: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape Pretzel Bites: Punch down the dough, then cut it into small 1/4 cup-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin log and cut into 3/4- to 1-inch pieces. Arrange the pieces on baking sheets without stacking.
Boil Pretzel Bites: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Slowly add the baking soda (it will bubble up), then reduce heat to medium-low. Boil pretzel pieces in small batches for 1 minute, turning halfway through.
Drain and Arrange: Remove boiled pretzel bites with a slotted spoon and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheets in a single layer.
Bake Pretzels: Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Apply Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Let baked pretzel bites cool for 10 minutes. Brush them evenly with melted butter and immediately toss or coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Notes

Ensure the water used to activate yeast is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Boiling the pretzel bites in baking soda water helps achieve the traditional pretzel crust and chewy texture.
Work in small batches when boiling to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
For extra flavor, you can vary the cinnamon sugar ratio according to your sweetness preference.
Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to regain crispness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American