If you’re looking for the ultimate chocolate dipped pretzels recipe, you’ve come to the right place! As a seasoned recipe creator who’s dipped more pretzels than I can count, I’ve perfected the art of getting that smooth, glossy chocolate coating every time—no clumps, no mess, and no “why is my chocolate turning white?!” moments. This recipe delivers foolproof results, and I’m sharing all my pro tips, topping ideas, and themed pretzel fun! 🥨
In this post you’ll find everything you need to know about making Chocolate Dipped Pretzels!
Whether you’re prepping for a party, holiday gifts, or just a sweet-and-salty snack attack, these chocolate- covered pretzels will outshine the rest. Trust me—once you try this recipe, you’ll never need another one!
What you’ll need:
Chocolate Covered Pretzels are made with just a couple of ingredients! Let’s take a closer look at what you need (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):
Best pretzels to use
Pretzel rods are the perfect choice for chocolate pretzels because their long, sturdy shape makes them easy to hold, dip, and decorate without breaking. They provide the ideal chocolate-to-pretzel ratio, offering a satisfying crunch (without getting soggy) while leaving plenty of room for creative toppings and drizzles. Their elegant look makes them ideal for gifting, parties, or a show-stopping sweet-and-salty treat! 🥨🍫
You’ll need one 10-12 ounce bag containing about 25 pretzel rods. Of course, you can also double or triple the recipe.
Best chocolate to use
Semi-sweet baking chocolate is ideal for chocolate coated pretzels because it melts smoothly and evenly, giving you a glossy, professional-looking coating that hardens beautifully. Its higher cocoa butter content than chocolate chips makes it easier to work with, ensuring a consistent texture and a satisfying crunch.
I prefer semi-sweet chocolate because it balances rich flavor and sweetness without being too sweet, but you may use milk or dark chocolate if you like.
How to make Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Let’s take a closer look at how easy it is to make chocolate covered pretzels with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):
Chocolate Covered Pretzel variations
These variations will make your chocolate dipped pretzels stand out at any event or as a delicious snack. Enjoy creating and sharing! ✨
Base Options
How tO Flavor The Dipping Chocolate
themes
Toppings for Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Here’s a list of toppings to elevate your chocolate covered pretzels into irresistible treats:
Toppings 🍬
Drizzles 🍫
Holiday-Themed 🎄🎃
Tips for making Chocolate Pretzels
What is the best way to dip pretzel rods in chocolate?
1. Hold the pretzel rod by the uncoated end and dip it straight into the chocolate.
2. Gently twist the rod as you pull it out to let excess chocolate drip off.
3. Tap the rod lightly against the rim of the glass to remove extra chocolate and avoid drips.
What is the best container for dipping pretzels?
A tall, narrow glass is the best container for dipping pretzel rods because:
•Perfect Coverage: The height of the glass allows you to dip more of the pretzel rod in one smooth motion.
•Reduces Mess: The narrow shape helps keep the chocolate contained and minimizes dripping or wasted chocolate.
•Smooth and Clean Finish: The narrow space helps you easily tap off excess chocolate, resulting in a neater final product.
PRO TIP:
If you don’t have a tall glass, you can use a mason jar, tumbler, or any tall, narrow container—make sure it’s heat-safe if you’re adding melted chocolate directly.
How do you thin chocolate for chocolate covered pretzels?
To thin chocolate, add a small amount of a neutral-tasting fat. This helps keep it smooth and dippable without affecting flavor.
OPTIONS
•Coconut oil 🥥 (solid or melted)
•Vegetable shortening
•Neutral oil (like canola, avocado, or vegetable oil)
Cocoa butter (best for professional results)
HOW TO USE
Stir it in thoroughly until smooth. Add more, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
How to make chocolate covered pretzel rods without a flat side?
Use these methods to achieve beautifully coated pretzel rods with a smooth, professional finish—perfect for gifting or serving!
•Tap Off Excess Chocolate: After dipping, gently tap the pretzel rod against the rim of your tall glass or container to remove excess chocolate.
•Let Chocolate Set at Room Temperature: Chilling in the fridge immediately can sometimes cause the chocolate to pool or flatten.
•Drying Option 1. Use a Drying Rack or Stand Upright: Place a wire cooling rack over a sheet of parchment paper. Rest the dipped pretzel rods horizontally on the rack so that only the uncoated end or thin points make contact. Excess chocolate drips down, and no flat side forms.
•Drying Option 2. Stand Upright Method: Stand the pretzel rods upright with the coated end in the air. Use a foam block (like florists’ foam) or a tall container filled with rice or dry beans to hold the rods securely.
Ideas on Gifting Dipped Pretzels
Perfect for gifting during holidays, birthdays, or just because! 🥨🍫🎁
What do you wrap chocolate covered pretzels in?
How to store Chocolate Covered Pretzels
1. Storage Container: Place pretzels in an airtight container (glass, plastic, or a resealable bag) to prevent exposure to air and humidity.
2. Environment: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or humidity as chocolate can absorb moisture and lose its texture.
How long do Chocolate Covered Pretzels last?
Chocolate covered pretzels will stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1-2 weeks. For extended storage, refrigerate in an airtight container with a paper towel for up to 3 weeks. However, be aware that the chocolate may develop a slight sheen or “bloom,” but it won’t affect taste.
How far in advance can you make Chocolate Covered Pretzels?
If stored properly, chocolate-dipped pretzels can be made up to 1-2 weeks in advance. This timeframe keeps the pretzels fresh and crisp and the chocolate firm without any risk of moisture or softening. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as they can cause the chocolate to melt or bloom.
Toppings: Some toppings (like sprinkles) may lose their crunch or color if stored for too long, so add them close to gifting or serving. However, you can only add these to wet chocolate, so it’s best to add a drizzle and then sprinkle with toppings.
Are you supposed to refrigerate chocolate covered pretzels?
Unless you’re facing extreme heat or need to keep them longer, chocolate-covered pretzels should be stored at room temperature for the best texture and appearance.
Refrigerating them can cause moisture to form on the chocolate, making it look dull or streaky (chocolate bloom).
WHEN TO REFRIGERATE
If you live in a very hot or humid climate, the fridge might help keep the chocolate firm, but it’s not necessary if you store it properly at room temperature.
Can you freeze Chocolate Covered Pretzels?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to prep treats in advance and keep them fresh for longer. However, if you’ve added toppings like sprinkles, they may lose their texture or color in the freezer, so it’s best to freeze the pretzels plain and add toppings after thawing and adding a drizzle.
1. Allow to Set: Ensure the chocolate on the pretzels is fully set at room temperature before freezing.
2. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Lay the pretzels flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they aren’t touching each other.
3. Flash Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step will help the pretzels freeze individually, preventing them from sticking together.
4. Transfer to Storage Container: Transfer the pretzels to an airtight container or freezer-safe resealable bag and store the pretzels in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Thaw: Let them thaw in a single layer without touching at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Dipped Pretzels FAQs
If your chocolate-covered pretzels aren’t hardening, there could be a few reasons. Here are the most common causes and how to fix them:
1. The Chocolate Was Too Hot When Dipped
•What Happens: If the chocolate was overheated, it may not set properly or could stay too soft.
•Solution: Make sure to melt the chocolate slowly and gently using a microwave in 20-30 second intervals or with a double boiler. Aim for a smooth, shiny consistency—not too runny or too thick.
2. Chocolate Isn’t Properly Tempered
•What Happens: If you’re using real chocolate (not candy melts), it needs to be tempered (a specific process of melting and cooling) to harden correctly and form a smooth, firm finish.
•Solution: If you’re working with real chocolate, ensure it’s tempered properly to achieve the best result. However, if you’re using candy melts, they are already formulated to harden without tempering.
3. Too Much Moisture
•What Happens: Moisture can cause chocolate to seize up and prevent it from hardening properly.
•Solution: Make sure your pretzels are completely dry before dipping. Any water on the pretzels, utensils, or chocolate can prevent it from setting properly.
4. Humidity or Warm Room Temperature
•What Happens: High humidity or a warm room can prevent chocolate from hardening, or it may cause the chocolate to remain soft or even sweat.
•Solution: Try setting the pretzels in a cool, dry place to set. Avoid placing them in a humid environment. If possible, place them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to help speed up the hardening process. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to avoid moisture.
5. Insufficient Setting Time
•What Happens: Chocolate can take some time to harden, especially if it’s thicker or was melted at a lower temperature.
•Solution: Give the pretzels more time to set—1-2 hours at room temperature or 10-15 minutes in the fridge. Ensure they are fully set before handling them.
6. Using Chocolate Chips (Without Modifying)
•What Happens: Regular chocolate chips often contain stabilizers that can affect how the chocolate sets.
•Solution: If using chocolate chips, you may need to add a bit of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to help the chocolate set more firmly.
By ensuring the right melting temperature, dryness, and environment, your chocolate-covered pretzels should harden properly, resulting in a smooth, firm coating. Happy dipping! 🥨🍫
When chocolate-covered pretzels turn white, it’s usually due to chocolate bloom, which is a harmless but unsightly condition. Here’s what causes it and how to prevent it:
1. Fat Bloom (Most Common Cause)
•What Happens: This occurs when the cocoa butter (fat in the chocolate) separates and rises to the surface, creating a white, streaky or cloudy appearance.
•Cause: This can happen if the chocolate was stored in warm conditions or if the chocolate was melted at too high a temperature and then cooled too quickly.
•Solution: Melt chocolate slowly over low heat to avoid overheating.
Store chocolate-covered pretzels in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid extreme temperature changes (like moving them from a warm room to a cold fridge).
2. Sugar Bloom
•What Happens: This occurs when moisture comes in contact with the chocolate, causing the sugar in the chocolate to dissolve and then recrystallize on the surface as white streaks.
•Cause: This is typically caused by exposure to humidity or moisture.
•Solution:Ensure that the pretzels are completely dry before dipping.
Store pretzels in an airtight container to keep moisture out. Avoid placing them in a humid environment.
3. Storing in the Refrigerator
•What Happens: Storing chocolate-covered pretzels in the fridge too quickly or for too long can cause condensation to form on the surface of the chocolate. As it evaporates, it can lead to a bloom.
•Solution: If refrigerating, place them in an airtight container and let them come to room temperature slowly before eating to prevent condensation.
Can You Still Eat Them?
Yes! Chocolate bloom is purely a cosmetic issue. The chocolate may not look as smooth or glossy, but it’s still perfectly safe to eat.
By controlling the temperature and humidity during both the melting and storing process, you can avoid this white bloom and keep your chocolate-covered pretzels looking their best! 🥨🍫
Looking for more Christmas Gift Recipes?
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Red Velvet Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies
Sugar Cookies
Gingerbread Whoopie Pies
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Chocolate Covered Pretzel Recipe
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Ingredients
- 24 whole pretzel rods (1 10/12 oz. bag)
- 12 ounces semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- 1 teaspoon corn syrup
Toppings
- 3 ounces vanilla/white almond bark for drizzling chopped (optional)
- Pick Your Favs: Sprinkles, crushed candy canes, toffee bits, mini candies, chopped nuts, crushed Oreos/cookies, shredded coconut, etc.
Instructions
- Prep: Line a very large-rimmed baking sheet (or your counter) with parchment paper and set aside. Prepare any toppings if needed.
- Melt Chocolate: Add the chocolate, oil/shortening, and corn syrup to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power for 60 seconds, stir, then continue to microwave at 50% power at 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Dip Pretzels: Transfer the chocolate to a glass for easy dipping. Working quickly, dip the pretzel rod into the chocolate and swirl so the chocolate spreads on 2/3 of the rod. Allow the excess to drip off and transfer to the parchment paper.
- Toppings: Immediately sprinkle the pretzel with the desired toppings, skipping some if you wish to drizzle them with white. Repeat with the rest of the pretzel rods. If the chocolate becomes too cool and firm, reheat briefly in the microwave at 50% power and stir. I have to do this at least once during the process.
- Set: Let the pretzels set before drizzling or serving, about 30-40 minutes at room temperature. I don’t suggest refrigerating to speed up the process because this causes more pooling and can create white streaks on the chocolate.
- White Drizzle (Optional): Place the white almond bark and ¼ teaspoon coconut oil/shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue to microwave at 15-second increments, stirring in between, until just melted. If it becomes too thin, let it rest to thicken.
- Decorate: Transfer the almond bark to a plastic bag and snip a very small hole in one corner. Drizzle the white chocolate over the desired pretzel rods, then immediately sprinkle with toppings.
- Set: Let the pretzels set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or until the drizzle has hardened.
Notes
- Vanilla Almond Bark Drizzle: I strongly suggest vanilla almond bark for the white drizzle (optional). White chocolate is far less forgiving and can easily scorch when melting. On the other hand, almond bark is a dream to work with because it’s made with vegetable fats instead of cocoa butter so it melts smoothly, doesn’t require tempering, sets quickly, and creates a firm, glossy finish. I get my mine at Walmart or Amazon.
- Flavorings: Avoid adding anything with water—water causes chocolate to seize and become clumpy. This includes extracts like vanilla and peppermint. Use oil-based flavorings or candy flavoring oils (like LorAnn Oils) because they won’t cause the chocolate to seize.
- Variations: See post for lots of topping ideas and flavor variations!
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