Name: Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 pkg active dry yeast ((1/4 oz)); 1 cup warm water ((110 degrees F)); 2 Tbsp granulated sugar; 2 Tbsp packed light-brown sugar; 1 Tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt; 1.5 cups bread flour; 1 to 1.25 cups all-purpose flour ((plus more for dusting)); 3 cups hot water; 0.25 cup baking soda; 0.5 cup butter ((melted)); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon; 4 oz cream cheese ((softened)); 2 Tbsp butter ((softened)); 1 cup powdered sugar; 0.5 tsp vanilla extract; 2 Tbsp heavy cream

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the smell of warm, buttery pretzels wafting through the air, especially when you’re at a mall, and Auntie Anne’s is just a few steps away. But what if I told you that you could recreate those delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) at home? Yes, you heard that right! With this Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce recipe, you’ll be indulging in these sweet, soft bites in no time. Perfect for movie nights, game days, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these pretzel bites are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce are soft, chewy, and coated in a heavenly cinnamon sugar mixture that will have you reaching for more. The cream cheese dipping sauce is the star of the show, adding a rich, creamy contrast to the sweet pretzel bites. Plus, making these at home means you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, right when they are at their best!

Ingredient Checklist

1 (1/4 oz) pkg active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110 degrees F)
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
2 Tbsp packed light-brown sugar
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 ½ cups bread flour
1 to 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
3 cups hot water
¼ cup baking soda
½ cup butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp heavy cream

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
Whisk: For mixing the yeast and sugar with water.
Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook: To knead the dough.
Baking Sheet: For baking the pretzel bites.
Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
Small Saucepan: For preparing the baking soda bath.
Mixing Spatula: For blending the cream cheese dipping sauce.

Mastering Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce: How-To

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your pretzel bites rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with brown sugar, vegetable oil, and salt. Gradually add in the bread flour and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Mix until a dough begins to form. If the dough is still too sticky, add more all-purpose flour, a little at a time, until it’s manageable.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, giving the pretzel bites their chewy texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 6: Shape the Pretzel Bites

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small sections and roll each piece into a rope about ½ inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized nuggets.

Step 7: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

In a small saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the baking soda until dissolved. This step is vital as it gives the pretzel bites their characteristic chewy texture and rich brown color.

Step 8: Boil the Pretzel Bites

Carefully drop a few pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake the Pretzel Bites

Brush the boiled pretzel bites with melted butter, then mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the pretzel bites. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce

While the pretzel bites are baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the pretzel bites are done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Dip them generously into the cream cheese dipping sauce and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce!

Substitutions by Category

Flours: You can substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour if needed, though bread flour provides a chewier texture.
Sugars: Coconut sugar can be used instead of granulated or brown sugar for a healthier option.
Dairy: Use vegan butter and non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free version of the dipping sauce.
Flavoring: For a different twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Pro Tips & Notes

Ensure your water is at the right temperature (110 degrees F) for the yeast to activate effectively.
Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s essential for achieving that authentic pretzel flavor and texture.
Feel free to customize the dipping sauce by adding different flavors like lemon zest or almond extract.
For a fun twist, try sprinkling the pretzel bites with different toppings, like everything bagel seasoning or chocolate drizzle.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can shape the pretzel bites and refrigerate them before boiling. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before boiling and baking. They can also be frozen after boiling and before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before shaping and boiling.

What if my pretzel bites don’t brown properly?

If your pretzel bites are not browning, ensure your oven is properly preheated. You can also brush them with a little extra melted butter before baking to encourage browning.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may alter the texture slightly. Start with a 50/50 mix for the best results.

How do I know when the pretzel bites are done baking?

The pretzel bites should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If they are still soft or pale, give them a few more minutes in the oven.

In Closing

There’s something truly special about homemade snacks, especially when they remind us of our favorite treats from childhood. With this Auntie Annes Copycat Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites (Nuggets) with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce recipe, you can bring that magic to your kitchen. These delightful bites are perfect for sharing, but let’s be honest, you might just want to keep them all to yourself! So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the sweet, cinnamon-sugar goodness that is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Happy baking!