Introduction

Chocolate covered pretzels are a delightful mix of sweet and salty that make a perfect treat for Valentine’s Day. These colorful, festive pretzel rods coated in candy melts and decorated with sprinkles are easy to make and fun to share with loved ones.

The image shows seven pretzel sticks arranged on a silver cooling rack placed on a white marbled surface. Each pretzel is partially dipped in white chocolate. The first, third, fifth, and seventh pretzels are coated with red sugar sprinkles. The second and sixth pretzels are decorated with pink, red, and white small heart-shaped and rod-shaped sprinkles, while the fourth pretzel has only pink and white sprinkles. The pretzels have a golden-brown color, and the white chocolate coating covers about two-thirds of each pretzel's length. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Light cocoa candy melts (milk chocolate morsels or chocolate-flavored almond bark)
White candy melts (white chocolate morsels or vanilla almond bark)
Pink candy melts
Red candy melts
Valentine’s Day Sprinkle Set
Heart sprinkles
Pretzel rods
Vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, 2 teaspoons)

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the candy coating according to package directions, taking care not to overheat. If the candy becomes too thick, add up to 2 teaspoons of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to thin it. Avoid adding any other liquid to prevent the candy from seizing.
Step 2: Dip or pour the melted candy over two-thirds of each pretzel rod. Gently shake off any excess coating. If using sprinkles, apply them immediately while the candy is still wet, rotating the pretzels to cover all sides. For larger sprinkles, place them individually for better coverage.
Step 3: Place the coated pretzel rods on waxed paper or a cooling rack. Waxed paper helps make removal easier once the candy sets.
Step 4: If you want to add drizzle with other colored candy melts, wait for the initial coating to fully set. Then, use a spoon or fork to drizzle the additional candy melts over the pretzels. Before they harden, gently pick them up and move them to clean waxed paper to avoid sticking.
Step 5: Let the pretzel rods dry completely before packaging or serving to ensure the coating is firm and won’t smudge.

Tips & Variations

For an even smoother candy coating, use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
Add a teaspoon of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to candy melts if too thick to help create a glossy finish and easier dipping.
Try different sprinkle shapes and colors to match other holidays or themes.
Use colored candy melts in any combination to create swirls or stripes for a unique look.

Storage

Store the chocolate covered pretzel rods in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can cause the candy coating to become sticky. If needed, re-crisp pretzels by briefly placing them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes, but avoid melting the candy coating.

How to Serve

The image shows eight pretzel sticks lined up side by side on a white marbled surface with a red and white checkered cloth in the background. Each pretzel stick is dipped in pink or white chocolate and decorated with different toppings. The first stick has pink chocolate with small white and red sprinkles. The second has white chocolate with tiny purple and red shapes. The third is covered with pink chocolate and decorated with red drizzle and white dots. The fourth has white chocolate with a red drizzle and red heart shapes. The fifth is pink chocolate with large red hearts and small pink dots. The sixth is bright pink chocolate with white and pink drizzle. The seventh has white chocolate with red, white, and pink sprinkles. The eighth is pink chocolate with pink and red hearts and sprinkles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What if my candy melts become grainy or seize up?

This usually happens from adding water or overheating. Avoid adding any liquid other than a small amount of shortening or coconut oil. If the candy seizes, you can try gently warming it again and stirring, but often it’s best to start fresh.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of candy melts?

Regular chocolate can be used, but it is more sensitive to heat and may require tempering. Candy melts are designed to melt smoothly and hold shape better at room temperature, making them easier for coating pretzels.