I wouldn't feel a need to soak it, but I wouldn't worry if it's damp either, maybe just a quick pat dry with a kitchen towel. I feel like enough moisture would come out through the holes in the skin it wouldn't make much difference.

If you don't have an hour, you can make them faster. Microwave the potato for several minutes until fairly soft (poke a few holes in the skin first), then bake in the oven or airfryer to crisp up the skin and finish cooking it. Not quite as good as fully baked, but much quicker and less energy used. Also great for sweet potatoes.

Rolo pretzel turtles for me.

Lay out some mini pretzel twists on a baking sheet with parchment paper and top each with a Rolo candy.

Put in a low oven for maybe 6-10 minutes, until the Rolos are soft but not melted.

Then quickly press a pecan on top of each one right when they come out, then let cool.

I've also done it with animal crackers and almonds.