Ingredients
Scale
- 24-30 pretzel rods, twists, or shape of choice
- 12 oz chocolate (melting wafers, chocolate chips, or chopped chocolate bars)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother consistency)
- Optional toppings: sprinkles, crushed candy canes, sea salt, chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut
- Optional: 4-6 oz contrasting chocolate for drizzling (white chocolate if using dark/milk, or dark if using white)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace – Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This is crucial to prevent sticking. Arrange all your toppings in small bowls within easy reach, as you’ll need to work somewhat quickly once pretzels are dipped. Make sure your pretzels are at room temperature and completely dry—any moisture will cause chocolate to seize.
- Melt the Chocolate (Microwave Method) – Place chocolate (and coconut oil if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 15-20 second intervals at 50% power, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until chocolate is smooth and completely melted. Don’t rush this—overheating causes chocolate to become thick and grainy. Total time is usually 1.5-2 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate (Double Boiler Method) – Alternatively, place chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of barely simmering water (the bowl shouldn’t touch the water). Stir constantly until melted and smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat once melted.
- Test Consistency – The melted chocolate should flow smoothly off a spoon. If it seems too thick, add ½ teaspoon of coconut oil at a time, stirring well, until you achieve a coating consistency that’s fluid but not watery.
- Dip the Pretzels – Hold a pretzel by one end (for pretzel rods) or use a fork to lower it into the melted chocolate (for twists/shapes). Submerge about ⅔ to ¾ of the pretzel, leaving some undipped for easy holding. Tilt the bowl as needed to achieve good coverage. Let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl for a few seconds—you can gently tap the pretzel against the bowl’s edge to encourage dripping.
- Remove Excess Chocolate – Use a fork to gently scrape the bottom of the pretzel against the bowl rim, removing excess chocolate for a cleaner finish. For pretzel rods, a slight twisting motion while lifting helps chocolate coat evenly and drip smoothly.
- Apply Toppings Immediately – Place the dipped pretzel on your prepared baking sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, immediately sprinkle or press on your chosen toppings. Work quickly, as the chocolate begins setting within 1-2 minutes. If adding multiple toppings, apply them all before moving to the next pretzel.
- Repeat Process – Continue dipping and decorating all pretzels, arranging them on baking sheets without touching each other. If your chocolate begins to harden, reheat briefly (10-15 seconds in microwave at 50% power) to restore smooth consistency.
- Optional Drizzle – Once all pretzels are dipped and toppings applied, melt your contrasting chocolate using the same method. Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag with a tiny corner snipped off. Drizzle back and forth over the pretzels in decorative patterns for an elegant finish.
- Let Chocolate Set – Allow pretzels to sit at room temperature until chocolate is completely hardened, about 20-30 minutes. For faster setting, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes, though this can sometimes cause condensation. The chocolate should be firm and snap cleanly when fully set.
- Store or Serve – Once completely set, pretzels can be arranged on serving platters, packaged in gift bags, or stored in airtight containers.
Notes
- Don’t let any water come into contact with melting chocolate—even a single drop causes it to seize and become grainy
- If chocolate seizes (becomes thick and grainy), try whisking in coconut oil 1 teaspoon at a time to smooth it out
- Work in a cool, dry environment—humidity and heat make chocolate set slowly
- For cleaner lines on pretzel rods, wipe the very bottom edge before placing on parchment
- Chocolate covered pretzels can be made 2-3 weeks in advance when stored properly
- If chocolate sets too quickly while working, briefly rewarm to restore workable consistency
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chocolate covered pretzel rod
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 2mg