• Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed.

For Dough Preparation:

• In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook, combine all the dough components on a low setting until just mixed. Raise the speed to medium and knead for about 7 to 10 minutes until the dough achieves an elastic, smooth texture, adding a little flour if it becomes too sticky.
• Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, ensuring it is completely coated. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rise until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F, while preparing baking sheets lined with parchment paper that is lightly greased with non-stick spray or butter.

For Shaping Pretzels:

• Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes around 20 inches long, keeping the unused portions covered to prevent drying.
• Using a bench scraper, cut each rope into 13 segments, each about 1 1/2 inches in length. Ensure these pieces are sized appropriately to allow for expansion in the oven. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets with space in between.

For Baking Soda Bath:

• Bring 3 cups of water to a boil, then carefully stir in the baking soda into a large bowl. Dunk the pretzel pieces in this mixture, ensuring each one is submerged for no more than 30 seconds before using a slotted spoon to lift them back onto the greased baking sheets.
• Bake in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through to achieve a uniform golden color. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the parchment.

For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• In a large sealable container, warm pretzels should be coated with melted butter. In a separate bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar, then toss the pretzels to ensure each one is covered evenly.

For Cream Cheese Dip:

• Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, blend the cream cheese, softened butter, milk or cream, and vanilla on medium-high until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency, about 3 minutes. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar while mixing on low until it is fully combined.
• These pretzels are best served right after preparation, but for later enjoyment, freeze the baked (uncoated) pretzel bites. When ready to serve them, heat the oven to 350°F for about 5 minutes before applying the cinnamon sugar coating. Enjoy!