Get ready to fall in love with the cozy sweetness of Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites—a treat that’s soft, golden, and perfectly snackable. This article will walk you through making these delightful Sourdough Bread Bites using simple pantry staples and a bit of leftover sourdough discard. You’ll find step-by-step directions, helpful baking tips, and creative serving ideas. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend bake, a family treat, or fun Sourdough Super Bowl Snacks, these chewy, sugar-dusted bites bring warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. You might even find yourself twisting up a batch of irresistible Sourdough Cinnamon Sticks next!
Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites
A Sweet Memory of Homemade Sourdough Treats
There’s something irresistibly comforting about the scent of cinnamon and butter drifting through the kitchen on a quiet afternoon. The first time I made Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites, it was an experiment born from a jar of spare sourdough discard and a craving for something warm and sweet. As the bites baked, their golden crusts puffed and cracked ever so slightly, releasing that signature buttery-cinnamon aroma. When I pulled them from the oven, still warm and soft, my family gathered—drawn by the scent alone. The first bite was pure joy: chewy, tangy, and sweet all at once, instantly earning a spot as our favorite homemade treat.
Part of what makes Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites so special is their perfect balance of flavor and texture. The natural tang from sourdough discard cuts through the sweetness, creating a depth you can’t get from regular dough. Each bite-sized piece is satisfyingly chewy inside, crisp on the edges, and blanketed in cinnamon sugar that sparkles in the light. They’re a hit at every gathering—easy to share, easy to love, and wonderfully versatile. Serve them as an after-dinner dessert, as a festive snack for game day, or alongside other Sourdough Super Bowl Snacks. However you enjoy them, these Sourdough Bread Bites guarantee comfort, nostalgia, and plenty of smiles.
The joy of these pretzel bites lies in their simplicity—humble ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It’s the type of recipe that connects generations, where the process is just as rewarding as the first bite. With each swirl of butter and sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, you recreate that timeless warmth that only homemade baking can deliver.
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Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 bites
Description
Soft, chewy, sweet sourdough bites coated in cinnamon sugar, made with discard for a tangy depth. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or party treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. In a large bowl combine sourdough discard, warm water, granulated sugar, and melted butter until blended.
2. Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, then knead until dough is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes in a mixer or 10 minutes by hand.
3. Cover dough and let rest at room temperature for 60-90 minutes until slightly puffed.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 ropes, cut each into 1-inch pieces, arrange on a parchment-lined sheet, and rest for 15 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a simmer in a large pot.
6. Boil pretzel bites in batches for 20-30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and return to the parchment-lined sheet.
7. Brush bites with melted butter and bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Immediately brush warm bites with butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
9. Serve warm with cream cheese dip, maple glaze, chocolate sauce, or other desired dips.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
Keywords: sourdough cinnamon sugar pretzel bites, sourdough bread bites, sourdough discard appetizers, sourdough super bowl snacks, sourdough cinnamon sticks, sweet snack
Ingredients, Tools & Dough Prep
Key Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Sourdough Bread Bites
The magic of making irresistible Sourdough Bread Bites lies in using a handful of simple, familiar ingredients. Each element contributes to the distinctive chewy texture and the deep, comforting flavor that makes these treats so special. Using sourdough discard not only reduces kitchen waste but also adds a mild tang that complements the buttery-sweet cinnamon sugar. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose / Role in Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Sourdough discard (unfed starter) | 1 cup (240 g) | Adds subtle tanginess, structure, and depth of flavor |
| Warm water | ¾ cup (180 ml) | Helps activate gluten and creates a smooth dough |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp | Feeds the dough’s yeast and enhances overall sweetness |
| All-purpose flour | 2½–3 cups (300–360 g) | Builds structure for the chewy, soft interior |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity |
| Baking soda | ½ cup (for boiling water) | Gives the signature pretzel chew and golden crust |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 4 tbsp (plus extra for brushing) | Adds richness; used both in the dough and coating |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tbsp | Brings warmth and aroma to the final coating |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | ½ cup | Creates the sparkly, sweet finish on each bite |
Each ingredient plays a key role: the sourdough discard deepens flavor, while a quick dip in baking soda water gives the pretzel bites their characteristic chew. The finishing layer of cinnamon sugar infuses them with sweetness reminiscent of warm bakery pastries.
Tools That Make Baking Easier
Having the right tools on hand turns the process of making Sourdough Bread Bites into a relaxing, rewarding experience. These items support smooth dough handling, easy cleanup, and consistent results every time.
- Mixing Bowls – One large for dough and one smaller for cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Dough Hook or Wooden Spoon – Use a mixer for ease or mix by hand for a traditional touch.
- Digital Kitchen Scale – Accurately measure flour and discard for ideal dough consistency.
- Dough Scraper – Keeps shaping neat and minimizes sticking.
- Large Pot – For the baking soda boil that ensures that signature pretzel chew.
- Slotted Spoon – Ideal for lifting boiled bites cleanly from water.
- Parchment Paper & Baking Sheet – Promote even browning and prevent sticking.
- Pastry Brush – For brushing melted butter before tossing in cinnamon sugar.
Prepare your workspace before you start—measure ingredients, line your sheet, and preheat the oven. With everything ready, mixing and shaping these golden Sourdough Bread Bites becomes a rewarding, aromatic experience.
Step-by-Step Preparation & Baking
Making and Shaping the Dough with Sourdough Discard
Creating these Sourdough Discard Appetizers begins with a simple, satisfying dough. In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, and melted butter. Stir well, then gradually add flour and salt. Knead for 5–7 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or 10 minutes by hand, until smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and rest at room temperature for 60–90 minutes. The dough won’t double in size but will appear slightly puffed. Turn it onto a floured surface, divide into 6–8 portions, roll into ropes about ½–¾ inch thick, and cut into 1-inch pieces. Arrange on a lined baking sheet, cover, and rest for another 15 minutes while you heat the baking soda bath. This resting step keeps the bites light and chewy.
Throughout the process, the sourdough discard quietly enhances flavor and texture, transforming everyday ingredients into bakery-quality pretzel bites.
Boiling, Baking & Coating in Cinnamon Sugar
Fill a large pot with 8 cups of water, bring to a simmer, and carefully stir in ½ cup of baking soda. Drop the pretzel bites in batches and boil for 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined sheet. This step ensures that distinct pretzel chew and gorgeous golden finish.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush boiled bites lightly with melted butter and bake for 12–15 minutes until puffed, golden, and crisped at the edges. While still warm, brush again with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar until evenly coated. The sugar crust creates a delightful contrast to the soft interior—sweet, buttery, and aromatic.
For serving, enjoy with cream cheese dip, maple glaze, or melted chocolate. A trio of dips makes them the ultimate Sourdough Discard Appetizers for parties and cozy nights alike.
Tips, FAQs & Conclusion
Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites
Bake Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites as close to serving time as possible for the best texture. If prepping ahead for Sourdough Super Bowl Snacks, parbake them, then warm in the oven before coating with butter and cinnamon sugar. Store cooled bites in an airtight container for up to two days, or freeze for up to a month.
Adjust the sweetness to taste, try brown sugar for caramel depth, or roll dough into longer ropes for Sourdough Cinnamon Sticks. Drizzle with caramel or chocolate for dessert, or skip sugar entirely and sprinkle coarse salt before baking for savory Sourdough Bread Bites. Each variation delivers comfort and versatility in one irresistible bite.
FAQ + Conclusion
1. Can I use active starter instead of discard?
Yes. Active starter works just as well, though the flavor may be milder. Adjust hydration slightly to maintain a supple dough.
2. How long do Sourdough Pretzel Bites stay fresh?
They’re best enjoyed the day they’re baked but can stay soft for about two days in an airtight container. Reheat briefly before serving.
3. Can I freeze baked pretzel bites?
Yes. Freeze them in a single layer, then store in a bag for up to a month. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes and recoat with butter and sugar before serving.
4. How can I make them vegan-friendly?
Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of dairy butter. They’ll remain soft, sweet, and delicious.
5. What’s the best dip pairing for them?
They shine with cream cheese frosting, maple glaze, or dark chocolate sauce. For something special, try spiced caramel or vanilla custard dips.
There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from baking Sourdough Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites—the aroma of cinnamon and butter, the toasty sweetness, and the shared warmth of homemade goodness. Perfect for holidays, cozy weekends, or your next Sourdough Super Bowl Snack, these golden bites promise joy in every bite. So grab your sourdough discard, mix up a batch, and fill your kitchen with that unmistakable scent of home-baked love. These Sourdough Bread Bites—and their sweet cousin Sourdough Cinnamon Sticks—deserve a permanent place in your baking rotation. Bake, share, and savor each soft, sugary taste of comfort.
