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Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe

When I first made these cinnamon sugar pretzel bites, I couldn’t believe how much they reminded me of the soft pretzels I used to get at the mall.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 packet instant yeast makes the dough rise and gives it that soft, fluffy texture
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the dough
  • 1 cup warm water helps activate the yeast—make sure it’s warm, not hot
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil keeps the dough soft and workable
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour gives the pretzels their light, pillowy structure
  • ½ cup baking soda key for that signature chewy pretzel crust when boiled in water
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted (helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar for the sweet, crunchy topping
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon adds warm spice and cozy flavor
  • 4 ounces cream cheese rich and creamy base for dipping
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened (makes the dip smooth and fluffy)
  • 2 –3 tablespoons cream or milk to adjust the consistency
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract adds depth and sweetness
  • ½ cup powdered sugar sweetens the dip just right

Method
 

  1. I start by mixing yeast, brown sugar, warm water, oil, and salt in my stand mixer bowl. Then I slowly add flour while the mixer kneads for about 5 minutes. Once the dough turns smooth and elastic, I cover it with a towel and let it rise for an hour until it doubles in size.
  2. After rising, I punch the dough down to release air. I divide it into six pieces, roll each into long ropes, and cut them into small bite-sized pieces. Even if they aren’t perfectly shaped, they bake up beautifully.
  3. Next, I dissolve baking soda in boiling water. I drop the dough pieces into the bath for about 30 seconds. This is what gives pretzels their chewy crust. Then I transfer them onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
  4. I preheat my oven to 400°F and bake the pretzel bites for 12–15 minutes, turning the pan halfway through. Once golden brown, I pull them out and get ready for the best part—coating them.
  5. While they’re still warm, I toss the bites in melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated on all sides. This step makes them taste magical.
  6. For extra indulgence, I whip softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and cream together. Then I mix in powdered sugar until smooth. It’s the perfect dip for these sweet bites.

Notes

  • I always check the water temperature (about 110°F) so the yeast activates properly.
  • Covering the dough with a damp cloth keeps it from drying out while rising.
  • Never skip the baking soda bath—it’s the secret to authentic pretzel texture.
  • Using fresh ground cinnamon makes the coating more flavorful.