Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites

KrystelOctober 7, 2023

DifficultyMedium

Total time1 hour15 minutes

Servings8

The Ultimate Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Recipe: Mall Quality at Home!,

Are you tired of spending a fortune on those mouthwatering cinnamon sugar pretzel bites from the mall? Well, get ready to save some serious dough while still indulging in the divine taste you crave. In this article, we'll walk you through a simple recipe that guarantees superior taste and texture, bringing the flavors of the mall right into your kitchen. Not only that, but this baking adventure is the perfect way to bond with your little ones while creating lasting memories. So, get your aprons on and prepare yourself for the ultimate cinnamon sugar pretzel bites that will have you saying, "Move over, mall!",

Ingredients

Now, let's dive into the key ingredients that will bring these irresistible cinnamon sugar pretzel bites to life. With just a handful of basic pantry staples, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the same mouthwatering flavors found at your favorite mall.

First up, you'll need 2 and ¼ cups of all-purpose flour. This versatile ingredient forms the foundation of our pretzel dough, providing the perfect texture and structure. Next, gather 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, which will add a subtle sweetness to balance out the cinnamon sugar coating.

To achieve that unmistakable pretzel taste, you'll want to have 1 teaspoon of salt on hand. This ingredient not only enhances the flavors but also helps to activate the yeast, ensuring a perfectly risen and chewy bite.

Speaking of yeast, make sure to have 1 packet (or 2 and ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast ready to go. This magical ingredient is responsible for the pretzel dough's rise, resulting in that delightful pillowy interior we all know and love.

For the warm and comforting notes of cinnamon sugar, you'll need ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. These two ingredients will come together to create that addictive coating that makes these pretzel bites truly irresistible.

To bind everything together, you'll require 1 and ½ cups of warm water and ¼ cup of baking soda. The warm water will activate the yeast, while the baking soda bath will give the pretzel bites their signature golden brown and chewy exterior.

Lastly, don't forget ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted. This glorious ingredient is key to achieving that buttery richness and perfect glossy finish on your pretzel bites.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you're ready to embark on a homemade pretzel-making adventure that will transport you straight to the mall, right in the comfort of your own kitchen.,

Preparation

To ensure a smooth and successful pretzel-making adventure, it's essential to prepare all your ingredients beforehand. First and foremost, gather 2 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour in a large mixing bowl. This will serve as the base for your pretzel bites, providing them with the perfect texture and chewiness.

Next, add ¼ cup of granulated sugar into the mixing bowl. This will help to balance out the savory flavors and add a touch of sweetness to each bite. Alongside the sugar, don't forget to include 2 and ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. This magical ingredient is what will make your dough rise and give your pretzel bites that light and fluffy texture.

Now, it's time to add a hint of saltiness to the mix. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, which will not only enhance the flavor of your pretzel bites but also contribute to the overall balance of the recipe. Lastly, remember to include ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted. This glorious ingredient is key to achieving that buttery richness and the perfect glossy finish on your pretzel bites.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you're ready to embark on a homemade pretzel-making adventure that will transport you straight to the mall, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. By carefully preparing each ingredient, you're setting the stage for shaping the pretzel bites into bite-sized pieces of perfection.,

Shaping the Pretzel Bites

Now that you have gathered your ingredients and mixed them together to create a flavorful dough, it's time to move on to the next step: shaping the pretzel bites. This is where the magic happens, as you transform the dough into bite-sized pieces of perfection.

To begin, take a small piece of the dough, about the size of a golf ball, and roll it into a long, thin rope. The length of the rope will depend on how big you want your pretzel bites to be, so feel free to experiment and find the perfect size for your taste.

Once you have your dough rope, take each end and bring them together to form a circle. The circle should be about one inch in diameter, allowing for a nice, even cooking throughout. Take note of how the dough feels in your hands as you shape it - it should be smooth and elastic, a sign that you've achieved the right consistency.

With your circle formed, twist the ends together, making sure they are securely sealed. This not only adds a charming visual touch but also helps the pretzel bites hold their shape during baking. Repeat this process with the remaining dough, creating as many pretzel bite circles as your heart desires.

As you shape the pretzel bites, remember that practice makes perfect. It might take a few tries to get the hang of it, but don't worry - even imperfectly shaped pretzel bites will taste delicious. If you find yourself struggling, take a moment to enjoy the process and embrace the unique shapes that emerge from your hands.

With the pretzel bites now shaped, you're almost ready to indulge in their irresistible goodness. But before we can savor their soft, doughy centers and golden exteriors, there's one more step to complete. In the next section, we'll explore the baking and topping process, taking these pretzel bites to a whole new level of mouthwatering delight.,

Baking and Topping

With the pretzel bites now shaped, you're almost ready to indulge in their irresistible goodness. But before we can savor their soft, doughy centers and golden exteriors, there's one more step to complete. Baking the pretzel bites is a crucial part of the process that will elevate these treats to a whole new level of mouthwatering delight.

Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature stated in the recipe. This will ensure that the pretzel bites bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color. As the heat envelops the bites, it will work its magic, turning the dough into a delectable blend of softness and chewiness.

Place the pretzel bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing enough space between each one to avoid overcrowding. This will enable them to bake evenly and prevent them from sticking together. As they bake, the aroma of freshly baked pretzels will fill your kitchen, intensifying your anticipation for that first delicious bite.

Now, it's time to apply the finishing touch that will take these pretzel bites to a whole new level of irresistible goodness – the toppings. Once the pretzel bites are out of the oven and still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter. This step adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the surface.

Next, generously sprinkle the pretzel bites with the delightful mixture of cinnamon and sugar. As you do this, the warm dough will absorb the sweet-spicy blend, creating a heavenly combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The cinnamon sugar coating will also add a delightful crunch with every bite.

While it's tempting to dig in immediately, allow the pretzel bites to cool for a few minutes. This will give the flavors a chance to meld together and the cinnamon sugar coating to set, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Plus, enjoying them at just the right temperature will prevent any accidental tongue burns and allow you to fully appreciate their delectable texture.

With the baking and topping steps complete, the pretzel bites are now ready to be devoured. In the next section, we'll explore the pure joy and satisfaction of sinking your teeth into these perfect cinnamon sugar pretzel bites. Get ready for a taste sensation that will transport you to the blissful indulgence of mall-quality goodness, right in the comfort of your own home.,

Enjoying the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites

While it's tempting to dig in immediately, allow the pretzel bites to cool for a few minutes. This will give the flavors a chance to meld together and the cinnamon sugar coating to set, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Plus, enjoying them at just the right temperature will prevent any accidental tongue burns and allow you to fully appreciate their delectable texture.

With the baking and topping steps complete, the pretzel bites are now ready to be devoured. Sink your teeth into these perfect cinnamon sugar pretzel bites and prepare to experience a taste sensation that will transport you to the blissful indulgence of mall-quality goodness, right in the comfort of your own home.

As you take your first bite, the aroma of warm cinnamon and freshly baked dough envelops your senses, instantly triggering nostalgia and anticipation. The exterior of the pretzel bites is lightly crisp, giving way to a soft and chewy center that offers a satisfying contrast in every bite. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory pretzel base.

As you savor each mouthful, the flavors dance on your tongue, leaving you wanting more. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a harmonious symphony of warm, comforting notes that evoke memories of cozy evenings and special treats. The pretzel bites offer that irresistible balance between familiar and exciting, bringing together the classic flavors you love with a unique twist.

Whether you're enjoying these scrumptious pretzel bites as a snack while watching a movie, serving them as party appetizers, or indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, their versatility is truly a testament to their perfection. Every bite sparks joy, filling you with a sense of contentment and pleasure that can only be experienced with the finest homemade creations.

Now that you've discovered the sheer delight of these cinnamon sugar pretzel bites, you'll never have to rely on the mall for your fix. Stay tuned for the conclusion of this article, where we'll share some tips and tricks to enhance your baking experience and ensure that every batch of pretzel bites turns out just as amazing as the first.,

In conclusion, mastering the art of creating your own batch of cinnamon sugar pretzel bites is not only a culinary triumph but also an opportunity to bond with your loved ones. By following the straightforward steps outlined in this recipe, you can indulge in pretzel bites that rival the mall's finest. Moreover, involving your children in this scrumptious adventure will create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, don your aprons, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delectable journey that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "Happiness is not a goal… it's a by-product of a life well-lived." And what better way to savor happiness than biting into a warm, homemade cinnamon sugar pretzel bite? Happy baking!

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cinnamon, pretzel bites, pretzels

Prep Time: 1 hour hour

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Krystel

Ingredients

• For the pretzels:
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups warm water about 110°F
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• For baking soda bath:
• 3 cups water
• ¼ cup baking soda
• For the cinnamon sugar coating:
• 4 tablespoons butter melted
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• For the cream cheese frosting:
• 4 ounces cream cheese completely softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons butter at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

• Make the dough:
• 1 In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine all of the dough ingredients. Mix on low speed until combined.
• 2 Increase speed to medium and knead for 7 to 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth and doesn’t stick to the sides of the bowl or your hands, adding a little more flour if needed.
• 3 Place in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let rise until about doubled in size, about 1 hour.
• 4 Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spray with nonstick cooking spray or grease with butter.
• Shape the pretzels:
• 1 Remove the dough to a clean work surface. Divide into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece against the counter or between your palms into about a 20-inch long log. Keep the remaining pieces covered. Only add flour to your work surface or dough if absolutely necessary.
• 2 Using a bench cutter, cut about thirteen 1 ½-inch pieces from each log. Be sure to not cut these too big, they will puff up in the oven! Place on the two greased parchment-lined baking sheets.
• Prepare the baking soda bath:
• 1 Bring the water to a boil (I like to use an electric kettle). Carefully pour the water into a large bowl (I use the bowl the dough rose in) and add in the baking soda. Stir with a wooden spoon to dissolve.
• 2 Dunk the pretzels bites in the baking soda solution, starting with the ones you shaped first, for no more than thirty seconds, before gently removing with a slotted spoon back to the greased and lined baking sheets, spacing them out at least half an inch apart.
• Bake the pretzels:
• 1 Bake both trays at 400°F for about 12 to 15 minutes, alternating the trays halfway through the baking time for even baking, until golden brown to your preference.
• 2 Let cool for 5 minutes before peeling away from the parchment paper.
• Coat with cinnamon sugar:
• 1 Place the cooked pretzels in a large sealable container. Toss with the melted butter. Add the cinnamon and sugar and toss to combine.
• Make the cream cheese dip:
• 1 In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, butter, cream or milk, and vanilla on medium-high speed until very light, creamy, and smooth, about three minutes. On low speed, gradually add in the sugar and beat until fluffy.
• 2 Coated pretzels are best served soon after making. Alternatively, you can freeze the baked uncoated pretzels. Thaw to room temperature, then refresh in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before coating as the recipe instructs.