There is something utterly irresistible about warm, soft pretzels, especially when they come bursting with melty chocolate and a dusting of cinnamon sugar. This One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe is a total game changer for anyone craving a sweet and comforting snack that’s ready in no time. Imagine tender, golden-brown pretzel bites loaded with gooey chocolate centers, perfectly balanced by a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating. Whether you’re serving these at a casual get-together or indulging in a cozy night at home, these bites deliver joy in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting these delightful chocolate and cinnamon-sugar soft pretzel bites is surprisingly simple, thanks to a handful of straightforward pantry staples. Each ingredient plays its part, from the warm water activating the yeast to the cinnamon-sugar that brings the perfect finishing touch of sweetness and spice.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and creates the perfect dough temperature.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of subtle sweetness.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness.
- 1/4 cup baking soda: Creates that signature pretzel crust in the boiling bath.
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash): Gives those pretzel bites a beautiful golden sheen.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The melty heart of every pretzel bite.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon to form a sweet, crunchy coating.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the sugar coating.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating): Helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly to each bite.
How to Make One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm water, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a large bowl. Let this mixture rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy—that’s your yeast waking up and ready to work its magic. Stir in the flour, salt, and melted butter until a shaggy dough forms. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until your dough feels soft and elastic, perfect for shaping those pretzel bites.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Find a cozy, warm spot in your kitchen and let the dough rise for 30 minutes. This rest time lets the dough puff up beautifully, giving your pretzel bites that tender, fluffy interior we all crave.
Step 3: Prep Baking and Boiling
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, bring a large pot with 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully stir in the baking soda—this bath will give your pretzels that iconic chewy crust and deep golden color.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Pretzel Bites
When the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into an 18-inch rope and slice the ropes into 1-inch pieces. Flatten each bite slightly, add a few semi-sweet chocolate chips in the center, and pinch the dough around the chocolate tightly to seal up that delicious secret inside.
Step 5: Boil and Bake
Drop the prepared pretzel bites carefully into the boiling baking soda water, doing this in batches so you don’t overcrowd your pot. Let them bath for 20 to 30 seconds before scooping them out with a slotted spoon onto your parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush each bite with your egg wash for that gorgeous gloss, then bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and inviting.
Step 6: Coat and Finish
While the pretzels are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until every bite is perfectly coated. The mixture adds a sweet, slightly crunchy layer that complements the rich chocolate inside beautifully.
How to Serve One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your pretzel bites with a light drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. A pinch of flaky sea salt can also do wonders to enhance the sweet and savory balance, making each bite even more crave-worthy.
Side Dishes
These pretzel bites pair marvelously with a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate or a creamy chai latte to keep the cinnamon vibes flowing. For a fun twist, serve with a side of vanilla ice cream or a simple caramel dipping sauce for an indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, present your One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe in a rustic basket lined with colorful napkins, or pile them high on a charming wooden platter. You can also serve them with small bowls of dipping sauces—like cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache—to let guests customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store your pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, keeping their soft texture and sweet cinnamon crunch.
Freezing
To save these treasures for later, freeze uncoated pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Warm leftover or frozen pretzel bites in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through and regain that fresh-baked charm. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the exterior slightly crispy while keeping the inside soft and melty.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate depending on your taste preferences. Each type will bring its own unique flavor twist to your pretzel bites.
Is it necessary to boil the pretzel bites in the baking soda water?
Yes, this step is key to achieving the classic pretzel texture and chewy crust. The baking soda bath reacts with the dough to create that beautiful, golden-brown exterior that sets pretzels apart from regular bread.
How do I prevent the chocolate from leaking during baking?
Make sure to pinch the dough tightly around the chocolate chips to completely seal them inside each bite. This will keep the chocolate melting in place during baking and prevent any mess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe relies on the structure provided by all-purpose flour, so a simple substitution won’t yield the same chewy texture. However, experimenting with gluten-free baking blends designed for yeast breads might work with some tweaks.
What’s the best way to enjoy these pretzel bites?
Enjoy them warm and freshly coated in cinnamon sugar for the ultimate indulgence. They make a fantastic snack, a sweet treat after dinner, or a fun party appetizer that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying treat, this One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for when you want the cozy flavors of soft pretzels combined with the irresistible allure of chocolate and cinnamon sugar, all without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your mixing bowl and whip up a batch—you won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 48 pretzel bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft, warm pretzel bites stuffed with melted semi-sweet chocolate and coated in a fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture. Ready in just one hour, these homemade treats combine classic pretzel texture with a sweet twist, perfect for a cozy dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Boiling Mixture
- 1/4 cup baking soda
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Filling and Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Stir in flour, salt, and melted butter until a dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil, then carefully stir in the baking soda.
- Form Pretzel Bites: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into an 18-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces. Flatten each piece slightly, place a few chocolate chips in the center, then pinch the dough closed to seal completely around the chocolate.
- Boil Pretzel Bites: Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for 20 to 30 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Brush each pretzel bite with the egg wash to help them develop a shiny, golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. While pretzel bites are still warm, brush them with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve: Enjoy these chocolate and cinnamon-sugar soft pretzel bites warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the pretzel bites are tightly sealed around the chocolate to prevent leaking during boiling and baking.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
- These pretzel bites are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving to regain softness.
