Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites Easy Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites! This easy recipe brings the joy of fresh-baked pretzels right to your kitchen without the hassle. You’ll whip up soft, chewy morsels coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar blend that will have everyone asking for more. Let’s dive into the simple steps and ingredients you need to create this tasty treat. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make air fryer cinnamon sugar pretzel bites:
– 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. The warm water helps activate the yeast. Sugar and yeast work together to make the dough rise. Flour forms the base of the pretzel, while salt enhances the flavor. Baking soda gives a nice texture. Butter adds richness, and the cinnamon sugar mixture makes it sweet and tasty. Finally, coarse sea salt gives a perfect finish.
Gather your ingredients, and let’s start making these pretzel bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Activating the Yeast
To start, mix 1 cup of warm water at 110°F with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You will see it froth up, which means the yeast is active and ready to go. This step gives your pretzel bites that nice rise.
Making the Dough
Next, add 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mix. Stir until the dough forms. Now, take the dough out and knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten, which gives the dough its chewy texture.
Letting the Dough Rise
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size. This step is crucial for fluffy pretzel bites.
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar
While the dough rises, prepare the cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Set this aside. This mix will add a sweet touch that makes your pretzel bites irresistible.
Shaping the Pretzel Bites
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1 inch thick. Then, cut each rope into bite-sized pieces, around 1 to 2 inches long. This makes them perfect for snacking.
Baking Soda Bath and Air Frying
Now, prepare a baking soda bath by mixing ½ teaspoon of baking soda with about 2 cups of warm water. Dip each pretzel bite in this solution for a few seconds. This step gives them that classic pretzel flavor and color. After that, place them on a plate. Brush each bite with melted butter, then sprinkle them with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Finally, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the pretzel bites in the basket, leaving space for air to flow. Fry them for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. You may need to do this in batches. Once they are done, take them out and sprinkle with coarse sea salt while they are still warm. Enjoy these tasty treats!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Proper Dough Consistency
To knead dough well, use your palms. Push the dough, fold it, and turn it. Do this for about five minutes. The dough should feel smooth and elastic when ready. You will know it is ready when it springs back when poked. If it sticks to your hands, add a little flour.
Air Frying Best Practices
Always preheat your air fryer to 350°F before cooking. This step helps your pretzel bites cook evenly. Place the bites in the basket, but leave space between them. This space allows hot air to flow and cook all sides well. If you put too many in at once, they may not cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
For a nice look, serve the pretzel bites warm in a basket. Line the basket with parchment paper for style. You can add a small bowl of cream cheese icing or chocolate sauce for dipping. This adds flavor and fun to your snack. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can jazz up these pretzel bites in fun ways. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist. You can also toss in some nuts for extra crunch. Experiment with spices too. Adding nutmeg or cardamom can give your bites a unique flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
Want a healthier version? Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. It adds fiber and nutrients. You can also cut back on sugar in the coating. Try using just a quarter cup of sugar to still get that sweet taste.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. This will work great in the recipe. For vegan substitutions, swap regular butter with plant-based butter. You can also use coconut oil for a nice flavor. These changes keep the bites tasty for everyone!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your pretzel bites fresh, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and keeps them tasty. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating pretzel bites is easy. The best method is to use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Place the bites in a single layer. Heat for about 3-4 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but they may get soft. To keep them crispy, wrap them in a paper towel before microwaving.
Freezing Tips
To freeze pretzel bites, let them cool completely first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the bites to a freezer bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these pretzel bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these pretzel bites ahead of time. After shaping them, place the bites on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1 hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just air fry straight from the freezer. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake them in an oven?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in an oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pretzel bites on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remember to brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar right after baking for the best flavor.
How do I know when my pretzel bites are done cooking?
Your pretzel bites are done when they turn a nice golden brown color. They should feel firm to the touch and have a slight bounce back when pressed. Make sure to check them at the 5-minute mark. If they look close to being done, check every minute until they reach that perfect color.
What is the best way to serve cinnamon sugar pretzel bites?
Serve your cinnamon sugar pretzel bites warm. Place them in a basket lined with parchment paper for a cozy look. You can add a small bowl of cream cheese icing or chocolate sauce on the side for dipping. This will take your pretzel bites to the next level!
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. The amount is the same, so use 2 teaspoons. You don’t need to activate instant yeast in warm water. Just mix it directly with the flour and salt. This makes your prep even quicker!
Making cinnamon sugar pretzel bites is fun and simple. You start with easy ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast. Then, follow clear steps to make the dough and shape the bites. Activating the yeast and letting the dough rise is key. Air frying gives them a crispy finish.
In the end, enjoy your tasty treats with dips of your choice. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends. Cooking can be rewarding, and these pretzel bites are a perfect start!
![- 4 slices of thick bread (brioche or challah) - 2 large eggs - 1/2 cup milk - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar - Additional mixture (1 tablespoon sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon) - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for frying) - Maple syrup or honey for serving The key to great Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks lies in the ingredients. Start with thick slices of bread like brioche or challah. These breads soak up the egg mixture well. For the egg mix, use large eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. This mix adds richness and flavor. Next, you need cinnamon and sugar. Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. You will want an extra mix of sugar and cinnamon for coating later. This makes them irresistible. Don't forget the butter! A tablespoon of unsalted butter helps fry the sticks. It gives them a nice golden color and flavor. The dish pairs perfectly with maple syrup or honey for dipping. With these ingredients, you can make a delightful breakfast or snack that everyone will love. Check out the Full Recipe for all the details! In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar. This mix is key. It gives the French toast sticks their rich flavor. Make sure the ingredients blend well. You want a smooth mixture. This will coat the bread perfectly. Next, slice the bread into sticks. Aim for 1-inch wide pieces. This size helps them cook evenly. Using thick bread, like brioche or challah, adds great taste. Uniform sticks ensure that every bite is just as tasty as the last. Now, dip each stick into the egg mixture. Make sure they get fully coated. Let any extra liquid drip off before cooking. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt. Once the pan is ready, place the sticks in without crowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and a bit crispy. After cooking, mix some sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. While the sticks are warm, roll them in this mix. The cinnamon sugar coating makes them delightful! For more details, you can refer to the [Full Recipe]. The best bread makes a big difference. I love using thick bread like brioche or challah. These types add a soft texture and sweet flavor. They soak up the egg mixture well and stay soft inside. You can also try Texas toast for a nice change. Look for bread that isn't too fresh. Day-old bread works best. It holds up better while cooking. To get perfect golden-brown sticks, use medium heat. If the heat is too high, they might burn. Keep an eye on them while cooking. Flip them carefully with a spatula. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The goal is a crispy outside and soft center. If they are browning too fast, lower the heat. This way, you get that nice, even color. You can serve these sticks in many fun ways! Maple syrup or honey make great dips. They add sweetness and flavor. You can also add fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas on the side. For extra flair, sprinkle some whipped cream on top. If you're feeling adventurous, try a chocolate sauce for dipping. It makes a tasty treat! {{image_2}} You can add chocolate chips or fruit to the egg mixture. This twist makes your French toast sticks even more fun. Just fold in small amounts of your favorite fruit, like berries or bananas, before dipping the bread. For chocolate lovers, sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips. These additions bring sweetness and texture to each bite. Switching to brown sugar or flavored syrups can change the flavor profile. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel taste that pairs well with cinnamon. You can also try flavored syrups, like maple or vanilla, for a unique touch. Drizzle these on or serve them for dipping. Each option offers a new twist on this classic dish. You can easily make this dish plant-based by swapping out eggs and milk. Use a mixture of flaxseed meal and water instead of eggs. For milk, try almond, soy, or oat milk. These substitutes maintain the creaminess and flavor you want. This way, everyone can enjoy cinnamon sugar French toast sticks, regardless of their diet. For the full recipe, check the main article. To keep leftover cinnamon sugar French toast sticks fresh, follow these steps: - Cool the sticks: Let them cool to room temperature. - Use an airtight container: Place the sticks in a container with a tight lid. - Refrigerate: Store them in the fridge for up to three days. - Freeze for longer storage: For freezing, wrap each stick in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To enjoy the sticks again, reheating is key: - Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy. - Skillet method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter, then place the sticks in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Knowing how long your cinnamon sugar French toast sticks last is important: - In the fridge: They stay fresh for about three days. - In the freezer: They can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. By following these storage tips, you can savor every bite of your delicious cinnamon sugar French toast sticks. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections. Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Make the egg mixture and cut the bread into sticks. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a few hours. You can also cook them, then keep them warm in the oven at low heat. This way, you save time and still enjoy a tasty breakfast. If you need alternatives, try using gluten-free bread or low-carb options like cloud bread. You can also use slices of banana or even zucchini for a unique twist. These options still give you a fun shape and taste great with cinnamon sugar! To keep the sticks crisp, don't soak them too long in the egg mixture. Just a quick dip works wonders. Make sure your pan is hot enough before cooking. This helps to seal the outside quickly, keeping the inside soft but not soggy. Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks! In this blog post, we covered how to make delicious Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for the best results. I also shared fun variations and storage techniques to keep your leftovers fresh. Enjoying these treats at breakfast or brunch elevates your meal. Whether you customize the flavors or pick the right bread, your French toast will impress. Try it out and make each bite count.](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/664e1dd1-150a-4660-86e6-505ad35a42cc-768x768.webp)
