Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites
These warm, soft pretzel bites are coated in a generous layer of sweet cinnamon sugar, making them the perfect treat. This recipe allows you to easily create these delightful bites at home, offering a homemade alternative to bakery-bought pretzels. Enjoy the irresistible combination of textures and flavors in every bite!
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Dough hook (if using stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowls
- pastry brush
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water 105-115°F
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 cups water
- ¼ cup baking soda
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
- Add the salt and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into approximately 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 20-24 inches long. Shape the rope into pretzel bites.
- In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda.
- Gently drop each pretzel bite into the boiling water, one or two at a time, for 30 seconds per side.
- Remove the pretzel bites from the water with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the pretzel bites are baking, melt the butter for the cinnamon sugar coating. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
- As soon as the pretzel bites come out of the oven, brush them generously with the melted butter.
- Immediately dip each pretzel bite into the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure they're fully coated. You might need to gently press the sugar onto them.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best results; if it doesn't foam, it's inactive. The water temperature is crucial – too hot will kill the yeast, too cold and it won't activate. Don't skip the baking soda bath, as it's essential for the pretzel's characteristic flavor and chewy texture. Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore warmth and slight softness. For variations, try drizzling with melted chocolate or omitting the cinnamon sugar for a savory version with coarse salt and garlic powder.