If you’re craving a sweet snack that’s easy to make, you’re in the right place! In this post, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites. You’ll love how quick and fun they are to prepare, plus they make for a perfect treat or dessert. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious twist on a classic snack! Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites
To make these tasty pretzel bites, you will need:
– 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
– 1/4 cup baking soda
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
These ingredients come together to create soft, warm bites with a sweet crunch. The pizza dough is the star. It gives the pretzels their chewy texture. The baking soda helps with that classic pretzel flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Serving
While the pretzel bites are delicious on their own, you can add some fun extras:
– Melted chocolate for dipping
– Cream cheese dip for a tangy twist
These options make the bites even more enjoyable. You can create a pretzel party with different dips to try!
Substitutions for Ingredients
If you don’t have some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some easy swaps:
– For pizza dough, try bread dough or homemade dough.
– If you want a healthier option, use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
– For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter substitute.
These substitutions keep the spirit of the recipe alive. You can still enjoy tasty pretzel bites with what you have on hand!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Dough
First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. While it heats, take the refrigerated pizza dough and unwrap it. On a floured surface, cut the dough into small pieces. Each piece should be about 1-inch squares. This size helps them cook quickly and evenly.
Boiling the Pretzel Bites
Next, we need to boil the dough pieces. In a medium pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Once boiling, stir in 1/4 cup of baking soda. This mixture gives the pretzel bites their signature flavor and color. Carefully drop each piece of dough into the boiling solution for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to lift them out. Then, place them on a paper towel to drain excess water.
Air Frying and Coating
Now, it’s time to air fry the pretzel bites. Arrange them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching. This allows hot air to circulate and cook them well. Air fry for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and puff up. While they cook, mix 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a bowl. When the bites are done, brush them with melted butter. Roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix until fully coated. For a finishing touch, sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your warm, sweet pretzel bites!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that soft and chewy bite, boiling the dough is key. The baking soda bath gives pretzel bites their chewy crust. Make sure to boil each piece for 30 seconds. This step helps the pretzel bites puff up nicely in the air fryer. If you skip this, your bites may turn out too soft.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to your cinnamon-sugar mix. You can also brush some vanilla extract into the melted butter. For a twist, consider rolling the bites in crushed nuts or add a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey taste. These small changes can elevate your pretzel bites to new heights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcrowding the air fryer basket. If the bites touch, they won’t cook evenly. Also, don’t skip the melted butter step after frying. It helps the sugar stick to the pretzel bites. Lastly, watch the time closely. Overcooking can make them hard instead of soft and chewy.

Variations
Sweet Variations (Chocolate, Nutella)
You can take your pretzel bites to a sweet level. Try adding chocolate or Nutella. After air frying, dip each pretzel bite in melted chocolate. Let the chocolate set for a tasty treat. For Nutella lovers, spread a little Nutella on top. It adds a creamy twist that pairs well with cinnamon sugar.
Savory Options (Cheese-Stuffed, Herb-Infused)
Savory pretzel bites are a fun option. You can stuff them with cheese for a gooey center. Just take a small piece of dough, add cheese, and seal it up. Then, boil and air fry as usual. For herb-infused bites, mix dried herbs into the dough. Try garlic powder or Italian seasoning for great flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pizza dough. Many brands sell ready-made dough. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. The result will still be soft and tasty. You can enjoy these bites without gluten worries.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Pretzel Bites
To keep your pretzel bites fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely first. This helps prevent them from getting soggy. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also line the container with paper towels to absorb any moisture.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your pretzel bites, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites in the basket in a single layer. Heat them for about 3-5 minutes. This will keep them warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but the bites may lose some crispness. If you use the microwave, heat them in short bursts of 15 seconds until warm.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
If you want to save your pretzel bites for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in the air fryer for best results. Enjoy your warm, tasty treats anytime!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough. Just make sure it is soft and pliable. Roll it out and cut it into 1-inch squares, just like the store-bought dough. This adds a personal touch to your pretzel bites. The flavor will be fresher and more unique.
How do I know when the pretzel bites are done cooking?
Check for a golden brown color. The pretzel bites should look puffy and firm. Use a toothpick to poke one. If it comes out clean, they are ready. The air fryer cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them after 5 minutes.
What dipping sauces pair well with cinnamon sugar pretzel bites?
I love serving these bites with melted chocolate or cream cheese dip. You can also try a caramel sauce for a sweet twist. For a fun contrast, use a tangy yogurt sauce. The flavors mix well and make each bite more special.
You now know how to make delicious air fryer cinnamon sugar pretzel bites. We covered the main ingredients, steps, tips, and even fun variations. With this guide, you can impress friends and family with tasty treats. Remember to avoid common mistakes and explore different flavors. Enjoy them fresh or save some for later. Whether you want sweet or savory, there’s an option for everyone. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own! Your kitchen adventures are just starting!


