Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites combine the warm, chewy goodness of classic pretzels with a sweet cinnamon sugar twist. These delightful morsels are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. With a fluffy, soft interior and a slightly crisp exterior, these bites burst with flavor and will delight your taste buds. Plus, they come with a dreamy cream cheese dip that takes them to the next level. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make these irresistible treats!
Why Make This Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are a fantastic blend of sweet and savory that everyone loves. They are easy to make and are perfect for parties, movie nights, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. The warm, buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful combination of the soft texture of the pretzel with the sugary crunch of cinnamon, making them appealing to both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
Making these soft pretzel bites at home is simpler than you might think. The process involves creating a dough, boiling it in a baking soda solution, and then baking it to a perfect golden brown. Below, you will find a straightforward approach to preparing these treats, complete with tips to ensure they turn out great every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 TBS brown sugar
- 2 TBS unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 9 cups water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg
- 1 TBS water
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 tsp cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, instant yeast, brown sugar, and salt. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it starts to bubble.
- Add the melted butter and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 9 cups of water to a gentle boil. Stir in the baking soda once it’s boiling.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces (about 1-inch each). Roll each piece into a ball.
- Drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
- Beat the egg with 1 TBS water, then brush the egg wash over the pretzel bites.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- While the bites are baking, mix together melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Once the pretzel bites are done, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm.
- For the cream cheese dip, mix softened cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth. Serve alongside your pretzel bites.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 3 pretzel bites):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients.)
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
These pretzel bites are delightful hot out of the oven, but they are also great at room temperature. Serve them as an appetizer at parties or alongside a movie night. Pair them with the cream cheese dip for a delicious treat that friends and family will love. For a fun twist, you can even serve them during game day or as part of a holiday spread.
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the pretzel bites cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
- Make sure your water is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it.
- Kneading the dough well will develop the gluten, giving you that desirable chewy texture.
- Do not skip the baking soda bath! This step is crucial for achieving the classic pretzel flavor and appearance.
- Use a pizza cutter to easily slice the dough into even pieces before rolling.
- If you want to skip the cream cheese dip, a simple chocolate sauce or caramel would also pair wonderfully!
Delicious Variations
- Savory Option: Try adding shredded cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon for a seasonal flare.
- Toppings: Drizzle some chocolate or top with sea salt for a sweet-salty combination.
- Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Stuff the dough with chocolate chips or jalapeño cheese before rolling for an extra surprise!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitue active dry yeast, but you’ll need to dissolve it in the warm water first and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before combining with the other ingredients.Why do we boil the pretzel bites?
Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda solution creates a unique texture and helps develop the classic pretzel flavor and color.How do I know when my pretzel bites are done?
Look for a deep golden-brown color. If they’re golden all over, they’re ready to come out of the oven!
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are a delicious treat that combines warmth, sweetness, and fun in every bite. They make for a perfect snack for any occasion, whether it’s a gathering or simply a cozy night in. With easy ingredients and straightforward steps, there’s no reason not to try making these delectable bites. Gather your friends and family around the table, whip up a batch, and watch as they disappear in no time. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experiences and tips with others!