These Pumpkin Pretzel Rods are a fun and tasty treat! They combine crunchy pretzel sticks with a sweet pumpkin coating, perfect for fall. Easy to make and share with friends!
I’ll admit, the combination of salty and sweet makes these hard to resist. I enjoy them as a snack while watching my favorite fall movies—snack goals achieved! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzel rods: The star of this treat! I love using thick pretzel rods for their crunch and sturdiness. If you want, you can swap these for pretzel sticks or even pretzel twists for a fun twist.
Pumpkin spice candy melts: These give a fantastic fall flavor. If you can’t find them, white chocolate melts with a bit of pumpkin spice or pumpkin puree mixed in work well as an alternative.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: They add a rich chocolate flavor. If you’d like a lighter option, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate. Sometimes I mix both for a flavor kick!
Coarse white sprinkles: These sprinkles add a lovely touch! You can use other types of sprinkles if you like, but I find the white ones stand out beautifully against the pumpkin color.
How Do I Melt Chocolate Smoothly?
Melt chocolate without burning it by using a gentle heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and start with 30-second intervals. Stir after each to prevent hot spots.
- If you have a double boiler, that’s a great choice too! Just let the steam do the work for you.
- When it’s almost melted, take it out and stir until completely smooth. This residual heat will help melt any remaining chunks.
Taking your time with melting chocolate can make a huge difference in texture and taste!
How to Make Pumpkin Pretzel Rods
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 40 pretzel rods
- 2 cups pumpkin spice-flavored candy melts or pumpkin spice white chocolate melts
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for half dipped in chocolate)
- 1/2 cup coarse white sprinkles or white sugar pearls
- Cooking spray or parchment paper (for workspace)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a little time for the coating to set. It’s perfect for a fun fall project or a great addition to any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Workspace:
Start by getting everything ready! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This will help the pretzel rods lift off easily once they’re set.
2. Melt the Candy Coating:
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the pumpkin spice candy melts. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring every time until they’re nice and smooth. Be patient; this keeps the chocolate from burning!
3. (Optional) Melt the Chocolate Chips:
If you want to add a chocolate layer, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate bowl using the same 30-second interval method. Stir until it’s fully melted and smooth.
4. Dip the Pretzel Rods:
Grab a pretzel rod by the bare end and dip it about two-thirds into the melted pumpkin spice candy. Allow extra coating to drip back into the bowl. This will keep the dipped part nice and neat!
5. Add Some Sparkle:
Before the melted coating sets, sprinkle the dipped section with coarse white sprinkles or sugar pearls. This adds a fun decorative touch that looks festive!
6. Set the Coated Pretzels:
Place each coated pretzel rod on the parchment-lined baking sheet to harden. This is where the magic happens!
7. (Optional) Chocolate Dipped Variation:
For variety, dip other pretzel rods in the melted semi-sweet chocolate and then sprinkle them for a delicious mix of flavors. It’s like getting the best of both worlds!
8. Repeat and Finish:
Keep dipping and decorating until all your pretzel rods are coated. It’ll be a fun assembly line of deliciousness!
9. Let Them Set:
Allow your pretzels to sit at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for a few minutes until the coating is fully set and firm. This is the hardest part—waiting!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once set, arrange your adorable Pumpkin Pretzel Rods on a festive plate and enjoy! They make great snacks for parties or just cozy nights in. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh!
These Pumpkin Pretzel Rods are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delight to share with friends and family. Enjoy your fall festivities!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Candy Melts?
Absolutely! While pumpkin spice melts give a festive fall flavor, you can use any flavor you like, such as vanilla or chocolate. Just remember that it may change the overall taste of your pretzel rods!
How Long Do Leftover Pretzel Rods Last?
Store leftover pretzel rods in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I Make These Pretzel Rods Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply look for gluten-free pretzel rods at the store. There are many great options available that will still give you the same crunchy texture and flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Sprinkles?
If you’re out of sprinkles, consider using crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even drizzle some caramel or chocolate on top for added flair. Get creative with whatever you have on hand!