Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods combine sweet, salty, and crunchy textures in one delightful treat. These easy-to-make snacks are perfect for parties, gifts, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home.
Ingredients
- 14 thick pretzel rods
- 40 soft caramels (such as Werther’s Original)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate melting wafers
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Unwrap the soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Step 3: Add the heavy cream to the caramels. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
- Step 4: Dip each pretzel rod into the melted caramel, leaving a few inches at the top uncovered for easy handling.
- Step 5: Let excess caramel drip off, then place the coated pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6: Allow the caramel to set for 15-20 minutes; chilling in the fridge helps it set better.
- Step 7: Melt the chocolate wafers or chips in a microwave-safe bowl, using 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler on the stovetop.
- Step 8: Once the caramel has set, dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate to cover the caramel layer completely.
- Step 9: Gently shake off excess chocolate and place the pretzels back on the baking sheet.
- Step 10: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles.
- Step 11: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.
- Step 12: Once firm, your caramel chocolate pretzel rods are ready to enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For easier handling, leave the top few inches of each pretzel rod uncoated with caramel and chocolate.
- Try white chocolate or milk chocolate as alternatives for coating to vary the flavor.
- Add crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or even a drizzle of contrasting chocolate for extra visual appeal.
- Use a Silpat mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Storage
Store caramel chocolate pretzel rods in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature briefly before serving for the best texture. Avoid storing in humid conditions to keep the pretzels crisp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pretzels?
Yes, thick pretzel rods work best for dipping, but you can also try thinner rods or pretzel twists, though the coating process might be trickier.
How can I avoid the chocolate and caramel from melting or becoming sticky?
Make sure the caramel is fully set before applying chocolate and allow the chocolate to firm up in a cool, dry place. Storing in a cool environment helps maintain their texture and prevents stickiness.
PrintCaramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods Recipe
Delight in the perfect gourmet snack with these Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods. Crunchy pretzel rods are generously coated in creamy, soft caramel and then dipped in rich semi-sweet chocolate, finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that irresistible sweet and salty combination. These treats are simple to make, ideal for parties, gifting, or a decadent homemade dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 14 pretzel rods 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pretzels
- 14 thick pretzel rods
Caramel Coating
- 40 soft caramels (such as Werther’s Original)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Chocolate Coating
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate melting wafers
Toppings
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent the pretzels from sticking during the setting process.
- Melt caramels: Unwrap the soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the heavy cream, then microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
- Dip pretzels in caramel: Dip each pretzel rod into the warm caramel, leaving a few inches at the top uncovered for handling. Allow excess caramel to drip off before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Set caramel: Let the caramel-coated pretzels set for 15-20 minutes. For a firmer set, chill the pretzels in the refrigerator during this time.
- Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate wafers in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate on the stovetop using a double boiler method.
- Dip pretzels in chocolate: Once caramel is set, dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate to cover the caramel layer completely. Shake off any excess chocolate and return the pretzels to the baking sheet.
- Add toppings: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the pretzel rods with flaky sea salt or other toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles as desired.
- Set chocolate: Allow the chocolate to fully set at room temperature, or refrigerate the pretzels for 10-15 minutes for quicker setting.
- Serve: Once the chocolate is firm, the caramel chocolate pretzel rods are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using soft caramels ensures easy melting and a smooth coating.
- For a firmer caramel layer, chill the caramel-coated pretzels before dipping in chocolate.
- If you prefer, add crushed nuts, sprinkles, or colored sugars as toppings along with the sea salt for added texture and flavor.
- Store the finished pretzel rods in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to keep the chocolate crisp.
- These treats make excellent gifts; consider packaging them in decorative cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
Keywords: caramel chocolate pretzel rods, caramel pretzels, chocolate dipped pretzels, sweet and salty snacks, homemade candy, party snacks
