If you’re searching for an irresistible treat that combines the joy of baking with the magic of gooey chocolate and the nostalgic comfort of cinnamon sugar, these One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites are about to become your new go-to recipe. Picture plush, golden bites—still warm from the oven—tossed in a sparkling cinnamon-sugar blanket and drizzled with silky chocolate. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself on a slow afternoon, these pretzel bites deliver cozy bakery flavors without ever leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites is likely already in your pantry, and each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the lush richness of melted butter to the sweet finish of cinnamon sugar, every component builds on the last to create something truly crave-worthy.
- Warm Water (1 cup, 110°F): Kickstarts the yeast and ensures a soft, pillowy dough—just warm to the touch, not hot!
- Active Dry Yeast (2 1/4 tsp, 1 packet): Powers the bite-sized pretzels with lift and softness in under an hour.
- Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast while adding a subtle hint of molasses flavor to the dough.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy base for your pretzel bites, yielding perfect chew and golden crust.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the finish.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons melted): Adds richness and tenderizes the dough—don’t skip this step.
- Baking Soda (1/3 cup, for water bath): Gives the classic pretzel chew and that iconic, deep golden exterior.
- Water (3 cups, for water bath): Works with the baking soda for a quick and essential bath before baking.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Makes the cinnamon-sugar coat sparkle and taste divine.
- Ground Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The heart of that sweet-spicy finish you love in a warm pretzel bite.
- Butter (4 tablespoons melted, for brushing): Helps the cinnamon-sugar really cling to each pretzel bite for maximum flavor.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup, for drizzle): Melts into a luscious, decadent drizzle to crown your pretzels.
- Heavy Cream or Milk (1 tablespoon): Gives your chocolate drizzle that glossy, velvety flow.
How to Make One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Sweeten the Start
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with active dry yeast and brown sugar. Stir gently and let this sit for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the mixture to get foamy on top—this means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. That little bit of sugar gives the yeast a boost, setting the stage for light, fluffy pretzel bites.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter to your activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead for 3 to 5 minutes, working until the dough is smooth and just slightly tacky. Now, cover that dreamy dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10 minutes—the perfect amount of time to prep the next steps.
Step 3: Prep Your Workspace and Water Bath
While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water and the baking soda to a gentle boil. This baking soda water bath is key for that signature soft pretzel texture and deeply golden color—the moment you drop each bite in, kitchen magic begins.
Step 4: Shape and Cut the Pretzel Bites
Once rested, divide your dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-14 inches in length. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut each rope into 1-inch pieces. In minutes, you’ll have a countertop full of future soft pretzel bites, ready for their transformation!
Step 5: Boil Briefly for Classic Pretzel Chew
Working in batches, gently drop your dough bites into the simmering baking soda water for 20-30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, fish them out and arrange on your parchment-lined baking sheet. This quick dip gives each bite that irresistible, chewy skin and deep pretzel flavor—don’t skip it!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the sheet of pretzel bites into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until they’re puffed and gloriously golden. The scent that starts to waft through your kitchen right about now is unbelievable—you’ll be counting down the minutes until that timer rings.
Step 7: Cinnamon-Sugar Finish (and Butter!)
While your pretzel bites bake, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl—this will soon be your coating. When the bites emerge from the oven, brush them generously with melted butter, then toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm. This is what creates the ultimate sweet, crispy shell.
Step 8: Add the Chocolate Drizzle
To finish off your One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites, combine the chocolate chips and cream (or milk) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring between each interval, until smooth and glossy. Using a spoon, drizzle that luscious chocolate over your tray of cinnamon-kissed pretzel bites, then serve warm and enjoy every gooey, tender bite.
How to Serve One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites

Garnishes
Set out a festive platter and finish your pretzel bites with a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a few colorful sprinkles for an extra pop if you’re serving kids or at a party. The little details turn already-swoony treats into a true centerpiece snack.
Side Dishes
Pair your One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites with a bowl of fresh berries, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a cold glass of milk for a snack that toes the line between dessert and happy-hour munchies. A mug of coffee or hot chocolate makes this combo outrageously good on a chilly afternoon.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond stacking—try threading pretzel bites onto skewers for dippable party kabobs, piling them high in a big, beautiful basket lined with a tea towel, or arranging them in a spiral on a cake stand, drizzled with extra chocolate for wow factor. Elevate your display just as much as the snack itself!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites left, stash them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and delicious for snack attacks later on—even after the chocolate sets!
Freezing
Freeze pretzel bites (before or after tossing with cinnamon sugar) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, reheat straight from frozen and toss with extra melted butter and cinnamon sugar before serving, if desired.
Reheating
Revive leftover bites by popping them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the chocolate gets nice and melty again. Microwave works in a pinch, but baking brings back a bit of that fresh-from-the-oven charm.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough for One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites a day ahead, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let warm to room temperature before shaping and continue with the recipe as directed.
What if I don’t have active dry yeast?
If you have instant yeast on hand, you can swap it in directly (same amount) and skip the activation step; just add it with the flour and salt. Your rising time may be even quicker!
How do I keep the pretzel bites soft after storing?
Brush the bites with a little extra melted butter or pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back their softness. Keeping them in an airtight container also helps lock in moisture and keeps them tender.
Is the chocolate drizzle required?
While the rich chocolate drizzle is part of what makes these pretzel bites so irresistible, you can certainly skip it or serve it on the side for dipping. Try swapping in cream cheese frosting or caramel for a tasty variation!
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients to make a bigger batch, which is perfect for parties or to freeze some for later. Just make sure to work in batches when boiling and baking to keep your bites evenly cooked.
Final Thoughts
The sheer joy of making One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites is topped only by diving into a warm batch minutes later. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or brand new to homemade pretzels, this recipe brings bakery magic into your kitchen in a flash. Give it a try and treat yourself—you deserve it!
Print
One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful One-Hour Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites that are perfect for snacking or as a quick dessert. These homemade pretzel bites are soft, chewy, and packed with a mix of sweet cinnamon sugar and a decadent chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Water Bath:
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- 3 cups water
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Finishing Touches:
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and melted butter, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rest: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3–5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare Water Bath: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil in a pot.
- Shape and Boil: Divide dough, roll into ropes, and cut into bites. Boil each piece in the water bath briefly before baking.
- Bake: Transfer boiled bites to a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
- Coat and Drizzle: Brush warm bites with melted butter, coat in cinnamon sugar, and drizzle with melted chocolate.
Notes
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven.
- Try dipping in chocolate sauce or cream cheese frosting for a twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 handful (about 8–10 bites)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg