Start by combining the instant yeast, brown sugar, warm water, oil, and fine salt in a stand mixer bowl. Add the all-purpose flour gradually as the mixer kneads the dough for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough becomes elastic and smooth. Cover with a kitchen towel and allow it to rise for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into six even portions and roll each portion into a 20-inch log. Using a bench cutter, slice each log into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry if they aren’t uniform; they puff up beautifully during baking!

Boil water in a large bowl, then stir in the baking soda until dissolved. Working in batches, dunk the pretzel bites into the water bath for about 30 seconds. This step is essential for achieving that classic pretzel texture. Afterward, transfer the bites onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the bites evenly on the baking sheets and bake for 12–15 minutes. Rotate the pans halfway through to ensure even browning. When they’re beautifully golden, take them out and prepare for the next step.

While the bites are still warm, toss them with melted butter until coated evenly. Then, roll them generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure every side is well covered. The buttery coating helps the sugar stick like magic!

While the pretzel bites cool slightly, whip up the cream cheese dip. Beat the softened cream cheese, butter, cream, and vanilla extract together until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth. Serve this decadent dip alongside your cinnamon sugar pretzel bites for an indulgent treat.