Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe
If you love that perfect combo of salty and sweet, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe. Whether you’re whipping these up for a party, gift bags, or just because, these treats are ridiculously simple and insanely tasty. Plus, I’ve sprinkled in some of my go-to tricks to make sure your pretzels turn out eye-catching and irresistible every single time. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your snack obsession.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Uses just a handful of everyday pantry staples so you can make it anytime.
- Customizable: Choose your chocolate type and sprinkles to match any occasion or mood.
- Easy Technique: Melting and dipping know-how ensures smooth coatings without fuss.
- Awesome Shelf Life: Stores beautifully for up to two weeks so you can enjoy over time.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient here plays a part in balancing flavor and texture—the saltiness of pretzels meets the creamy sweetness of chocolate, and sprinkles add that extra pop of fun. Shopping tip: pick good-quality chocolate chips or candy melts for a smooth, shiny finish.

- Miniature Pretzel Twists or Pretzel Rods: Their crunch and saltiness are the foundation of these treats; choose whichever shape you prefer or mix both for variety.
- Chocolate Chips or Candy Melts: I love using a blend of milk and white chocolate chips for contrast, but candy melts are super convenient and easy to melt smoothly.
- Shortening (optional): Just a tablespoon keeps melted chocolate silky and perfect for dipping, especially if you’re using chocolate chips.
- Sprinkles: These make the pretzels festive and fun—grab your favorites or seasonal colors to mix things up.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love how flexible this Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe is—sometimes I mix dark chocolate with a hint of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch, other times I go full-on rainbow sprinkles for a kid-friendly party vibe. You can totally make this your own!
- Variation: Try adding crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top of the chocolate before it hardens for extra crunch and flavor—my kids went nuts for that combo!
- Dietary Modifications: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and gluten-free pretzels to accommodate allergies without losing any of the fun.
- Seasonal Twists: Switch up your sprinkles to match holidays—candy cane bits at Christmas or pastel candies for Easter add a special festive note.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe
Step 1: Melting the Chocolate Just Right
Start by placing your chocolate chips or candy melts into a microwave-safe bowl. If you’re working with chocolate chips, add the tablespoon of shortening now—it helps the chocolate melt into a silky, smooth mix without becoming grainy. Microwave the chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring each time. This keeps the chocolate from burning and gives you a velvety texture perfect for coating.
Step 2: Dipping Pretzels Like a Pro
If you’re using pretzel rods, pour the melted chocolate into a tall glass. This way, you can dip each rod halfway in with ease. After dipping, gently tap the glass rim with the rod to shake off any excess chocolate—this prevents clumps and keeps things tidy. Then roll or sprinkle your toppings right over the wet chocolate. Place dipped pretzels on parchment paper to set.
Step 3: Mastering the Twists
For pretzel twists, grab a fork and coat each one with the melted chocolate by dipping it fully, then tap the fork against the bowl’s side to let extra chocolate drip off. Use a toothpick to carefully slide each pretzel off the fork onto your parchment-lined tray—this little trick saves you from sticky fingers! Top each piece with sprinkles quickly before the chocolate hardens.
Step 4: Letting Them Set
Allow the chocolate-covered pretzels to sit undisturbed until the chocolate hardens completely. I usually let them chill at room temperature, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick stint in the fridge speeds it up without dulling the chocolate’s gloss. Once dry, serve, or package them up to share!
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe
- Use a Tall Glass for Rods: Melting candy melts in a tall glass makes dipping pretzel rods easier and less messy—a total game-changer in my kitchen.
- Don’t Skip the Shortening: If you’re using regular chocolate chips, the shortening thins the chocolate for a shiny, smooth finish; I’ve learned the hard way that skipping it leads to clumpy coatings.
- Act Fast on Sprinkles: Chocolate sets quickly, so have your sprinkles ready right by your dipping station to catch that perfect stick.
- Patience Is Key: Let the pretzels dry completely before moving them to avoid sticky, misshapen treats—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes
I’m a sucker for classic rainbow sprinkles, but you could also go nuts with mini chocolate chips, crushed peppermint in winter, or edible glitter for a sparkle effect. These little touches make your pretzels pop visually and add texture that keeps bites interesting.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a bowl of popcorn or fresh fruit to balance the indulgence. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert board paired with cheeses and nuts for a party spread that’s both sophisticated and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
I’ve wrapped individual pretzels in colorful cellophane tied with ribbons for birthday gifts, and for holidays, I arrange them in festive boxes or mason jars topped with seasonal decorations—these always get rave reviews and make amazing party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen’s warm. The pretzels stay crisp while the chocolate keeps its snap, and they stay fresh for up to two weeks—perfect for nibbling over time.
Freezing
Freezing chocolate covered pretzels works well if you want to make a batch ahead for parties. Just layer parchment between them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature to keep the texture and flavor intact.
Reheating
Technically, these don’t really need reheating—just let them come to room temperature if stored in the fridge or freezer to get the perfect bite without melting the chocolate on your fingers.
FAQs
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Can I use regular chocolate bars instead of chips?
Absolutely! Chop your chocolate bars into small, uniform pieces so they melt evenly. Adding a bit of shortening helps smooth it out during melting, just like with chocolate chips.
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What’s the best way to prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Make sure no water gets into your chocolate while melting. Stir well between short microwave bursts, and avoid overheating. Adding shortening can help prevent seizing too.
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Can I prepare this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove over simmering water. Stir continuously until smooth and proceed as usual.
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How do I store chocolate covered pretzels to keep them from getting sticky?
Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid humidity and direct sunlight, which can cause the chocolate to sweat and the pretzels to lose crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe is one of those easy, delightful treats I always keep in my back pocket. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find success (and deliciousness!) here. Honestly, I love how they satisfy sweet cravings while giving that little salty crunch that’s so addictive. So go ahead—grab those pretzels and chocolate, and whip up a batch. Your taste buds—and your friends—will thank you.
Print
Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 50 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy recipe for Chocolate Covered Pretzels combines salty and sweet flavors perfect for a snack or party treat. Miniature pretzel twists or rods are dipped in melted chocolate or candy melts and decorated with colorful sprinkles, creating a delightful and visually appealing treat that can be enjoyed anytime.
Ingredients
Chocolate Coating
- 12 ounces chocolate chips or candy melts (milk, white, dark, or any combination)
- 1 tablespoon shortening (only if using chocolate chips)
Pretzels and Decorations
- 50 miniature pretzel twists or 24 pretzel rods
- 1/2 cup sprinkles
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. If you are using chocolate chips, add 1 tablespoon of shortening to the bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip Pretzel Rods: If using pretzel rods, pour the melted chocolate into a tall glass. Dip each rod halfway into the chocolate, then tap it gently against the side of the glass to remove excess chocolate. Immediately coat with sprinkles and place on parchment paper to dry.
- Dip Pretzel Twists: If using pretzel twists, use a fork to scoop and coat each pretzel in chocolate. Tap the fork against the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate, then use a toothpick to slide each pretzel off the fork onto parchment paper. Sprinkle with sprinkles while chocolate is still wet.
- Set and Serve: Let all coated pretzels sit at room temperature until the chocolate is completely dry and set. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Notes
- You can use pretzel twists, pretzel rods, or a combination of both based on your preference.
- For pretzel rods, melting candy melts in a tall glass simplifies dipping and ensures an even coating.
- Choose any type or color of sprinkles to match the occasion or holiday for a festive touch.
- If desired, use candy melts to avoid adding shortening required for chocolate chips melting.
- Store finished pretzels in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness up to two weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg


