Christmas Pretzel Rods
Christmas Pretzel Rods are a simple, festive treat combining crunchy, salty pretzel rods dipped in smooth chocolate and decorated with colorful sprinkles or crushed candies. Perfect for holiday parties, homemade gifts, or a sweet and salty snack that everyone will love. Customizable with various chocolates and toppings, they’re easy to make and bring a delightful crunch and holiday cheer to any occasion.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus setting time
- Yield: 12-16 pretzel rods
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Dipping
- Diet: Gluten Free
Pretzel Rods
- Sturdy salted pretzel rods (quantity as desired, typically 12-16 rods)
Chocolate Coating
- White, milk, or dark chocolate melts or candy melts (8-12 ounces)
Festive Toppings
- Holiday-themed sprinkles (1/2 cup)
- Crushed peppermint candy or mini candy canes (1/4 cup)
- Optional: finely chopped nuts or shredded coconut (1/4 cup)
Other Supplies
- Wax paper or parchment paper (for setting pretzels)
- Prepare Your Workstation: Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper to set your pretzels after dipping, ensuring they don’t stick and stay neat as the chocolate hardens.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place your chosen chocolate melts in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler to gently melt the chocolate without burning.
- Dip the Pretzel Rods: Hold each pretzel rod carefully and dip about two-thirds into the melted chocolate, twisting slightly to cover evenly. Gently shake off excess chocolate to avoid heavy drips.
- Add Toppings Quickly: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your festive toppings over the dipped portion so they adhere firmly before the chocolate hardens.
- Let Them Set: Place the dipped, decorated pretzels on the prepared sheet and allow them to sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is completely firm and set.
Notes
- Choose high-quality chocolate melts for a smoother finish and richer flavor.
- Temper chocolate for a shiny, snap-worthy coating if desired.
- Work quickly to add toppings immediately after dipping so they stick well.
- Use cooling racks to allow excess chocolate to drip off evenly when setting.
- Store finished pretzel rods in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
- For a richer flavor, substitute with dark chocolate.
- Add peanut butter drizzle for extra indulgence.
- Use gluten-free or vegan alternatives as needed.
- Roll wet chocolate in crushed nuts or toffee pieces for extra texture.
- Store leftovers at room temperature for up to one week; freeze for up to one month using parchment layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel rod
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Christmas pretzel rods, holiday treats, chocolate dipped pretzels, festive snacks, easy holiday recipe, sweet and salty snacks