Here’s a delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make your kitchen smell irresistible. These delightful little bites are soft and chewy, with a perfect balance of sweetness from the cinnamon sugar coating. They’re reminiscent of those you find at fairs and amusement parks, but now you can enjoy them fresh from your oven. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even a fun treat for gatherings, these pretzel bites will surely become a favorite in your home.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm water (110°F/43°C) | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking soda | ½ cup |
| Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Coarse sea salt | For sprinkling |
Method of Preparation:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the flour amount slightly.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this process.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a long rope, about 1 inch in diameter. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the pretzel bites.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the baking soda until dissolved. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites:
- Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the baking soda bath for about 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Pretzel Bites:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- While the pretzel bites are baking, mix the cinnamon and brown sugar in a bowl. Once the pretzel bites are out of the oven, brush them with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
Presentation & Decoration:
- Serving: Serve the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites warm, ideally right out of the oven. They are perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat at parties.
- Decoration: For an extra touch, serve them with a side of icing or chocolate sauce for dipping. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
Conclusion:
This Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe is a fantastic way to indulge in a sweet treat that is simple to make and utterly delicious. With their soft, chewy texture and the delightful sweetness of cinnamon sugar, these pretzel bites will bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, movie night, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after kneading. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
How do I store leftover pretzel bites?
Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their warmth and softness.
Can I freeze pretzel bites?
Yes! Freeze the baked and cooled pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What if I don’t have coarse sea salt?
If you don’t have coarse sea salt, you can use regular granulated salt or kosher salt for sprinkling, but use it sparingly as it can be saltier.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding other flavorings to the cinnamon sugar, such as nutmeg, vanilla, or even a dash of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.