Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate balance of pillowy-soft, golden dough kissed with a double coating of cinnamon-sugar and melty chocolate, look no further than Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites. This playful twist on classic pretzels delivers everything you love about sweet and salty snacks in pint-sized bites perfect for sharing—or secretly hoarding! Each bite lures you in with its warmth and aroma, just waiting to be dunked in glistening chocolate or devoured straight from the tray. Whether you’re baking with kids, planning a movie night, or treating yourself to a cozy afternoon, these pretzel bites are little crowd-pleasers you’ll crave again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites lies in a handful of everyday ingredients that work together to create something truly special. Every component plays a role, whether it’s building up a tender crumb, adding a hint of caramel, or delivering that signature sweet crunch.

• Warm water (1 ½ cups at 110°F): Gives the yeast a jumpstart and ensures your dough rises beautifully fluffy.
• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): The foundation of those light, airy pockets and perfect chewiness.
• Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle depth and helps activate the yeast for a richer flavor.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups): This classic base delivers structure and softness with every bite.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and highlights the flavors throughout.
• Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons + 4 tablespoons for brushing): Creates a plush texture in the dough and adds irresistible richness when brushed on at the end.
• Baking soda (⅓ cup): Key for the “pretzel” effect—gives that lightly crisp exterior you know and love.
• Water for boiling (6 cups): Used with the baking soda to give the bites their classic look and finish.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Forms half of our signature cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Delivers a cozy warmth that wraps each bite in nostalgic sweetness.
• Mini chocolate chips or melted chocolate (½ cup): The chocolatey finish, offering gooey pockets or the perfect dip.

How to Make Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and brown sugar. Let this cozy mixture sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. Watching the yeast come to life—forming a bubbly, fragrant foam—is half the fun, and it ensures your Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites will turn out light and fluffy every time.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Stir in the flour, salt, and the first portion of melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough comes together, then tip it onto a lightly floured surface. Knead with gentle enthusiasm for 6 to 8 minutes, feeling the dough transform from rough to smooth and elastic beneath your hands. Once you reach this stage, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape and Cut the Pretzel Bites

Once risen, turn the dough out and divide it into six equal pieces. Channel your inner kid and roll each piece into a long rope, roughly 12 inches in length. Then, slice each rope into adorable 1-inch bites—this is where you start to see Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites taking shape! Set the bites aside on a clean surface while you prep the boiling water.

Step 4: Boil with Baking Soda

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring 6 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Carefully drop the pretzel bites in batches into the bubbling bath, letting them cook for about 30 seconds. This quick dip is what gives them that golden, slightly chewy “pretzel” finish! Using a slotted spoon, transfer each batch to your prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Once all your bites are boiled and arranged, slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until they turn irresistibly golden brown and slightly puffed. These Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma—don’t be surprised if people start to drift in, following their noses!

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar

While the bites are still warm from the oven, brush them generously with the second portion of melted butter. Immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture you prepared with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This step encases each bite in a sparkling, crunchy-sweet shell you’ll love.

Step 7: Add Chocolatey Goodness

Now for the grand finale: generously toss your bites with mini chocolate chips so they melt slightly into the warm dough, or set out a bowl of melted chocolate for dipping. Either way, you’re adding a glorious, decadent twist that makes these Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites

Garnishes

Dress up your platter by showering the bites with a flourish of mini chocolate chips just before serving, or dust them lightly with extra cinnamon-sugar. For a grown-up twist, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt for that irresistible sweet-salty contrast. It’s the little touches that take your Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites from delightful to absolutely show-stopping!

Side Dishes

Pair these warm bites with fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices for brightness, or set out an assortment of dipping sauces—salted caramel, a quick cream cheese frosting, or more melted chocolate are all stellar sides. Think of it as a build-your-own snack board where everyone finds their favorite pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, pile the bites high in a rustic basket lined with parchment, or skewer them onto sticks for fun, sweet-and-savory “pretzel pops.” You could also arrange them in a circle around a bowl of melted chocolate for eye-catching presentation, turning your Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites into the centerpiece dessert of any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you miraculously have leftovers, store your Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, but if your kitchen is humid, a quick reheat will revive their fresh-baked magic.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these bites for longer storage! Let them cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To serve, just remove the amount you need, let them thaw at room temperature, and then warm them up before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

To recapture that irresistible just-baked warmth, pop your pretzel bites into a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a toaster oven, which works wonders for small batches. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it may make the bites a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate after the first rise. When ready to use, just let the dough come back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before continuing with shaping and boiling.

What type Snack, Dessert

Mini chocolate chips melt into the warm bites for a gooey finish, but high-quality dark, milk, or even white chocolate bars are all excellent for melting and serving as a dipping sauce. Play around to find your favorite!

Can I make these pretzel bites vegan?

Yes! Substitute plant-based butter and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free, and you’ll have vegan-friendly Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites that taste just as incredible.

Is it possible to skip the boiling step?

The baking soda boil is what gives these bites their classic pretzel texture and gorgeous color. If you skip it, they’ll still bake up as soft rolls but won’t have the same distinctive flavor or chew, so it’s worth the extra minute or two!

How do I keep the cinnamon-sugar coating from falling off?

Brushing the bites with melted butter while they’re still warm is the secret—this helps the cinnamon-sugar adhere and form that craveable shell. Toss quickly and gently, then serve soon after for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a sweet snack that’s outrageously comforting and a total hit at any gathering, don’t wait a second longer to whip up a batch of Chocolate and Cinnamon-Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites. With their pillowy centers, glittery coating, and rivers of chocolate, this recipe proves that a simple pantry can yield serious magic. Gather your favorite people, pour some extra chocolate, and enjoy every melt-in-your-mouth bite!

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