Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites – Easy Homemade Recipe with Cream Cheese Dip

The scent of cinnamon sugar drifting through my kitchen always makes me stop in my tracks. There’s just something magical about freshly baked soft pretzel bites, especially when they’re warm, pillowy, and coated in that sparkly cinnamon sugar shell. The best part? Dunking them into a luscious cream cheese dip that’s sweet, tangy, and impossible to resist.

I first made these cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I needed a little cozy pick-me-up. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could nail that classic pretzel texture at home, but after a few trials (and more than a few taste tests), I found the perfect method. These bites have become my go-to treat for family movie nights and last-minute get-togethers. Even my neighbor’s picky kids beg for a batch every time they visit!

If you’re craving something sweet, soft, and a little nostalgic, this recipe is for you. It’s got all the classic mall pretzel vibes but with a homemade twist that feels extra special. Plus, the cream cheese dip takes everything to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project or hoping to wow your friends at your next gathering, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites are the answer.

As someone who’s baked her way through dozens of pretzel recipes, I can honestly say this one is a keeper. It’s easy enough for beginners, but the results taste bakery-worthy. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make a batch of cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to homemade treats, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites are one of those recipes that just checks all the boxes. Here’s why you’ll want to make them again and again:

• Quick & Easy: The dough comes together in about 15 minutes, and you’ll have fresh, warm pretzel bites in under an hour. Perfect for when those sweet cravings strike or you need an impressive snack in a hurry.
• Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy here—just pantry staples like flour, yeast, sugar, and cinnamon. You probably have everything you need right now.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These bites are a hit at parties, game nights, brunches, or as a special after-school snack. They’re also great for holiday gatherings (think Easter brunch or Christmas morning)!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Every time I make these, they disappear in minutes. Kids love them, adults sneak extra bites, and there’s never a crumb left behind.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of soft, chewy pretzel dough with the sweet crunch of cinnamon sugar is pure comfort food. Add the creamy, tangy dip, and you’ve got something truly crave-worthy.

What sets this recipe apart is the texture—pillowy-soft on the inside, with that perfect golden crust on the outside. I use a quick baking soda bath to get that classic pretzel flavor and sheen, just like the mall pretzels but so much fresher. Blending the cream cheese dip until it’s ultra-smooth makes it irresistibly dippable, and the cinnamon sugar ratio is spot-on (trust me, I’ve tested a lot!).

Honestly, these bites bring back all those nostalgic memories of mall food courts and fun outings, but without the crowds or the price tag. They’re the kind of treat that makes your kitchen smell amazing and brings everyone to the table. If you want a recipe that’s easy, foolproof, and guaranteed to please, you just found it.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients to create soft, flavorful pretzel bites with a dreamy cream cheese dip. Here’s what you’ll need (and a few notes from my kitchen):

• For the Pretzel Dough:
  • All-purpose flour (about 3 1/2 cups / 440g) – For the best texture, I love using King Arthur or Gold Medal.
  • Warm water (1 1/2 cups / 360ml, about 110°F/43°C) – Not too hot, not too cold. Just warm to the touch for happy yeast.
  • Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp / 1 standard packet) – Instant yeast also works if that’s what you have.
  • Granulated sugar (2 tbsp / 25g) – Helps activate the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
  • Salt (1 tsp / 6g) – I use fine sea salt for even mixing.
  • Unsalted butter (2 tbsp / 28g, melted) – Adds richness and makes the dough extra soft.
• For the Baking Soda Bath:
  • Baking soda (1/3 cup / 45g) – A must for that deep brown pretzel color and classic flavor.
  • Water (4 cups / 950ml) – For boiling the bites before baking.
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g) – The sweet part of the magic dust.
  • Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 tbsp / 12g) – Use good cinnamon! I love Saigon cinnamon for more flavor.
  • Unsalted butter (4 tbsp / 56g, melted) – Helps the sugar stick and gives extra richness.
• For the Cream Cheese Dip:
  • Cream cheese (4 oz / 113g, softened) – Full-fat is best for creaminess.
  • Powdered sugar (1/2 cup / 60g) – For sweetness and smoothness.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp / 5ml) – Adds a lovely flavor.
  • Milk (2-3 tbsp / 30-45ml, as needed) – Adjust for dipping consistency.
  • Pinch of salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness.

Ingredient Tips: For a gluten-free option, use a good all-purpose gluten-free flour blend. If you’re dairy-free, swap in vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese (I’ve tried Kite Hill with good results). No vanilla? Maple syrup works in a pinch for the dip.

Honestly, these ingredients are pantry basics, but they work together to create something extra special. And if you’re out of something, don’t panic—there’s almost always a swap that’ll work (I’ve been there!).

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make these cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites, but having the right tools does make life easier. Here’s what I use every time:

• Large mixing bowl – For making the dough. A stand mixer with a dough hook is handy, but not required (I often knead by hand).
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision helps with baking, so I stick to my trusty Pyrex cups and OXO spoons.
• Baking sheet – Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup. I use a rimmed half-sheet pan.
• Medium saucepan – For the baking soda bath. Any pot large enough to hold 4 cups of water works.
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer – Makes fishing out the pretzel bites from the baking soda bath much easier (a regular spoon works in a pinch, but be careful!).
• Pastry brush – For brushing on melted butter. I’ve used the back of a spoon when I couldn’t find mine!
• Small bowl – For mixing the cinnamon sugar.
• Hand mixer or sturdy whisk – For blending the cream cheese dip. A stand mixer or even a fork can work, but make sure everything is softened to avoid lumps.

If you’re on a budget, don’t sweat it. I’ve made these with just a mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, and my hands. If you have silicone baking mats, they’re great for nonstick baking, but parchment paper works perfectly, too. Keep your tools clean—especially the pastry brush—and your baking sheets lasting longer by hand-washing when you can.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites with Cream Cheese Dip

1. Make the Pretzel Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water, 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar, and 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes, until foamy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old—grab a fresh packet!)
   • Add 2 tablespoons (28g) melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon (6g) salt. Stir to combine.
   • Gradually mix in 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour. Start with a spoon, then knead by hand or with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky. (If it’s too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.)
   • Form the dough into a ball, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes. It should puff up, though it doesn’t need to double.
2. Shape the Bites:
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface.
   • Divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 18 inches (45cm) long and 1-inch (2.5cm) thick.
   • Cut each rope into 1.5-inch (4cm) pieces. You should get about 40-48 bites total.
3. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups (950ml) water and 1/3 cup (45g) baking soda to a simmer. Stir to dissolve.
   • Working in batches, drop pretzel bites into the water for 20-30 seconds. They’ll puff and get a bit slippery—don’t over-boil, or they’ll taste metallic.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and place on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. (Keep an eye on them—every oven is a little different!)
   • Let cool just enough to handle—about 5 minutes.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
   • Combine 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1 1/2 tablespoons (12g) cinnamon in a small bowl.
   • Brush each warm pretzel bite with melted butter (4 tablespoons / 56g), then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture. (Do this while they’re warm—it sticks better!)
6. Make the Cream Cheese Dip:
   • In a medium bowl, beat 4 oz (113g) softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
   • Add 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) milk, a little at a time, until you get a creamy, dippable consistency.
7. Serve:
   • Arrange the cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites on a platter with the cream cheese dip in the center. Serve warm for maximum deliciousness!

Troubleshooting Tips: If your dough isn’t rising, check that your water isn’t too hot or cold. If your pretzel bites are too pale, leave them in the oven for another minute or two. And if the cinnamon sugar doesn’t stick, brush with extra butter!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Proofing the Dough: I’ve learned that a slightly warm oven (just turned off) is a perfect spot for rising dough, especially in winter.
• Cutting Even Bites: Use a bench scraper or sharp knife for neat, uniform pieces. Uneven pieces bake at different rates, so try to keep them similar in size.
• Baking Soda Bath: Don’t skip this! It gives the bites their signature pretzel taste and chewy texture. Just don’t let them soak too long or the flavor can turn harsh.
• Rolling in Cinnamon Sugar: The bites need to be warm, but not so hot they fall apart. I coat them in small batches—if they cool down, pop them back in the oven for a minute to warm up.
• Dip Consistency: If your cream cheese dip is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes or add a bit more powdered sugar.
• Batch Baking: If you double the batch (highly recommend for parties!), bake in separate trays to avoid crowding, which can lead to soggy bites.
• Multitasking: While the dough rises, prep your cinnamon sugar and cream cheese dip. It makes things go super smoothly.

My first attempt at these bites, I tried skipping the baking soda bath to save time—big mistake! The bites tasted more like dinner rolls than pretzels. Also, don’t overwork the dough or you’ll end up with tough bites. Gentle kneading is key. With a little practice, you’ll have bakery-level pretzel bites every time.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (I like Cup4Cup). The dough will be a bit stickier, so dust your hands with flour and handle gently.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap unsalted butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free cream cheese for the dip. Almond milk works perfectly in place of regular milk.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips and drizzle over the coated bites for a fun twist. My kids love this for birthday parties!
• Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, stir a pinch of pumpkin pie spice into the cinnamon sugar mix. In summer, zest a little orange into the cream cheese dip for a citrusy kick.
• Savory Swap: Skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle the bites with coarse salt after the baking soda bath. Serve with mustard or cheese dip for a snack-board vibe.

One of my personal favorites is adding a dash of cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a slightly exotic flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative or adjust the flavors to suit your family’s tastes. There’s really no wrong way to enjoy these soft pretzel bites!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For the ultimate experience, serve these cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites warm, straight from the oven. Pile them high on a pretty platter with the cream cheese dip in a bowl in the center—they look gorgeous and inviting (perfect for Pinterest snaps, if you ask me!).

Pair them with hot cocoa, chai tea, or a vanilla latte for a cozy treat. For brunch, add fresh fruit and scrambled eggs for a sweet-and-savory combo. During the holidays, I love dusting a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for sparkle.

Leftovers (if you ever have any) keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, stash them in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through—the sugar will crisp up a bit, which is honestly delicious. The cream cheese dip stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days; just give it a good stir before serving again.

And here’s a fun secret: the flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, so leftover bites make a fantastic next-day snack (if you hide a few from the family, that is!).

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bite (without dip) is roughly 55 calories, with about 1g protein, 1.5g fat, and 9g carbs. The cream cheese dip adds an extra 40-50 calories per serving, depending on how much you use (I never judge!).

These bites are lower in fat than typical fried doughnuts, and the homemade version lets you control the sugar. Using real butter and full-fat cream cheese gives satisfying flavor, while the option to swap in gluten-free or dairy-free ingredients means nearly everyone can enjoy them. Just a heads-up—these do contain gluten and dairy in the standard recipe, so adjust as needed for allergies.

What I love most is that these treats are portion-friendly and satisfying. Paired with fresh fruit or a cup of milk, they make a sweet snack that feels indulgent but not over-the-top.

Conclusion

There’s something special about baking cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites from scratch. It’s a recipe that brings people together, fills your kitchen with warmth, and guarantees smiles all around. These bites are endlessly customizable, easy to make, and always a hit—whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself.

I love making these for my family because they’re simple, fun, and just a little bit nostalgic. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on them—try a new spice, make a different dip, or double the batch for sharing. If you give this recipe a try, let me know in the comments how it turned out or share your own favorite twist.

Go on, bake up a batch, pour a mug of something cozy, and enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-sugar bite. Happy baking!

FAQs

How long do cinnamon sugar soft pretzel bites stay fresh?

They’re best eaten fresh and warm, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that soft texture.

Can I freeze the pretzel bites?

Yes! Freeze baked and cooled pretzel bites in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through before serving. Wait to coat with cinnamon sugar until after reheating, if possible.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No problem. You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes a little extra elbow grease, but I do it this way often and it works great!

Is there a way to make these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely. Make the dough and cut the bites, then refrigerate (covered) overnight. Bring to room temperature before boiling and baking the next day. You can also prep the cream cheese dip ahead and store in the fridge.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works too! You can skip the proofing step and mix it right in with the flour and other ingredients.

Print