Get ready to indulge in a simple yet irresistible treat—Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites! This easy recipe transforms basic pizza dough into soft, warm bites coated in cinnamon sugar. Perfect for snacks, parties, or game day, these tasty bites delight both kids and adults. Follow my step-by-step guide to create a treat that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and create magic together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 (16 oz) package of refrigerated pizza dough
– 1/2 cup baking soda
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
To make these cinnamon sugar pretzel bites, gather your main ingredients first. Start with a 16 oz package of refrigerated pizza dough. This dough gives us the chewy texture we want. You will need 1/2 cup of baking soda for boiling the bites. The baking soda helps create the pretzel crust.
Next, grab 1 large egg. We will beat it to brush on the bites before baking. Coarse sea salt adds flavor and crunch. You will also need 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This mix gives the bites their sweet, spiced flavor. Finally, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter to coat the bites when they come out of the oven.
Optional Toppings and Dips
– Cream cheese dip
– Chocolate sauce
– Caramel sauce
You can enjoy these bites with some tasty dips. A cream cheese dip adds a nice tang. Chocolate sauce is a sweet treat for chocolate lovers. Caramel sauce brings a lovely richness. Feel free to mix and match these options to find your favorite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle. Make it about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide. Then, cut each strip into small squares, about 1 inch.
Boiling the Pretzel Bites
1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the baking soda.
2. Carefully add the pretzel bites in small batches. Do not crowd the pot. Boil each batch for 30 seconds.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove them. Place the boiled bites on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking and Coating
1. Brush each pretzel bite with the beaten egg. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
2. Bake the bites in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Look for a golden brown color.
3. While they bake, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
4. Once baked, take the pretzel bites out of the oven. Brush them with melted butter right away.
5. Toss the bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are well coated.
6. Serve warm. Enjoy with cream cheese dip or your favorite sweet sauce!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Pretzel Bites
To get the best texture, you want your pretzel bites soft on the inside and crispy outside. Start with a good boiling process. Boil each batch for 30 seconds. This step gives them that classic pretzel dough feel. If you boil too long, they may turn rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
These bites taste best warm. Serve them right out of the oven for the best flavor. Pair them with a cream cheese dip or chocolate sauce. The sweet cinnamon and salty flavors work well together. You can also serve them as a fun snack at parties!
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza dough. Many stores sell it frozen or fresh. You can also make your own. Just mix gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, and water. This dough works well, but be careful when boiling. It may need less time in the water. Keep an eye on it so it does not fall apart.
Vegan Option
To make these bites vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. For the butter, use vegan butter or coconut oil. Both give a great flavor.
For the cinnamon sugar blend, use the same sugar and cinnamon mix. Ensure your sugar is vegan. Some sugar is processed with bone char. Look for brands that are labeled vegan. This way, you can enjoy your treat without worry!
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your cinnamon sugar pretzel bites fresh, use an airtight container. Place the bites in a single layer, if possible. If you stack them, add parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, they taste best when fresh!
Reheating Tips
To reheat the pretzel bites, use your oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bites on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 5 to 7 minutes until warm. This method keeps them soft and tasty. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat them in short bursts of 10 to 15 seconds to avoid making them soggy. Enjoy your bites warm for the best flavor!
FAQs
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar pretzel bites?
Yes, you can freeze cinnamon sugar pretzel bites. Allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This helps keep them fresh. You can store them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
How long do these pretzel bites last?
Cinnamon sugar pretzel bites last about two days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Just remember that refrigeration can make them a bit tough.
What’s the best way to make them crispy?
To make your pretzel bites crispy, follow a few steps. First, ensure you boil them for the full 30 seconds. This helps create the classic pretzel texture. Then, bake them at the right temperature until golden brown. Finally, brush them with melted butter right after baking. This adds flavor and keeps them crispy.
Can I use different flavors of sugar?
Absolutely! You can use different flavors of sugar for a fun twist. Try using vanilla sugar or even pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch. Just mix the flavoring with the granulated sugar. Experimenting with flavors can make your cinnamon sugar pretzel bites unique and exciting.
You now have all you need to make tasty cinnamon sugar pretzel bites. We covered key ingredients like dough, baking soda, and butter. I shared step-by-step instructions on boiling, baking, and coating. You learned tips for perfecting texture and serving ideas. There are also safe storage methods and answers to common questions. Enjoy baking these bites for snacks or parties. You’ll impress everyone with your tasty treats!
