Description
These Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods are a delightful treat combining crunchy pretzels with rich, smooth caramel and a decadent chocolate coating. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, they offer the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, making them an ideal snack or gift for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
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, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the caramel coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramels are fully melted and smooth.
- Dip the pretzels: Holding each pretzel rod, dip it into the warm caramel mixture, coating about two-thirds of the pretzel. Allow excess caramel to drip off, then place it on parchment-lined baking sheets. Let them cool and firm up at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting wafers in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until smooth and glossy.
- Coat with chocolate: Dip the caramel-coated portion of each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, covering the caramel evenly. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before returning the pretzels to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add sea salt topping: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle flaky sea salt lightly over the chocolate-coated caramel portion of each pretzel for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Set the pretzels: Let the pretzels sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is fully set, about 30 minutes.
- Serve and store: Once set, enjoy your caramel chocolate pretzel rods immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Notes
- You can use a double boiler method instead of microwaving to melt caramel and chocolate if preferred.
- Choose thick pretzel rods for better coating coverage and ease of handling.
- If caramel hardens too quickly, gently reheat it before dipping.
- Customize toppings with chopped nuts or sprinkles instead of sea salt if desired.
- Store pretzels in a cool, dry place to prevent chocolate from melting.