Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies deliver on every level. Crispy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate come together to create bite-sized treats that are impossible to resist.

I first made these candies as a last-minute addition to a holiday dessert platter, and they were the first to disappear! Now, they’ve become a staple for parties, gift-giving, or just a satisfying snack when the sweet tooth calls. Let’s dive into why these candies will be your new favorite indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to treat! These candies are a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will adore.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and no baking required, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Perfect for busy schedules or impromptu gatherings.

They’re also customizable. Use your favorite type of chocolate, try different pretzel shapes, or sprinkle on festive toppings for any occasion. The possibilities are endless!

Plus, they’re budget-friendly. A little goes a long way, so you can whip up an impressive tray of candies without breaking the bank.

Finally, these treats are perfect for gift-giving. Package them in a decorative tin or cellophane bag, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies lies in the balance of their simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pretzels: Mini pretzels are ideal because they provide the perfect size and crunch. Opt for classic twists or snaps for a uniform look.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe, as it spreads easily and holds the candies together. If you prefer a crunch, go for chunky peanut butter!
• Chocolate: Use good-quality chocolate for the best results. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate adds a nice balance to the sweetness, but milk chocolate works beautifully too.
• Butter: Just a touch of butter helps smooth out the peanut butter filling, making it extra creamy.
• Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the peanut butter mixture while maintaining its structure.
• Toppings (optional): Add a sprinkle of sea salt, crushed pretzels, or festive sprinkles for extra flair.

You’ll also need a microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to assemble the candies.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies

Making these candies is quick, fun, and the perfect activity to do with kids or friends. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
   In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Stir until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to roll into small balls.
2. Assemble the Candies
   Scoop about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a ball. Sandwich the ball between two pretzels, gently pressing to flatten slightly. Repeat until all the peanut butter mixture is used.
3. Melt the Chocolate
   Place 1 cup of chopped semi-sweet chocolate (or chocolate chips) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Dip the Pretzel Sandwiches
   Using a fork, dip each pretzel sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the candy on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Add Toppings (Optional)
   While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with a pinch of sea salt, crushed pretzels, or sprinkles for a decorative touch.
6. Set the Candies
   Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. Once set, the candies are ready to enjoy!

These candies take just about 45 minutes total, including chill time, making them a quick yet impressive treat.

Storage Options

These candies store beautifully, so you can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

• Room Temperature: Store the candies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
• Refrigerator: For a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The chocolate will stay firm, and the flavors remain fresh.
• Freezer: These candies are freezer-friendly! Place them in a freezer-safe container with layers separated by parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

For best results, store the candies in a single layer to prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Chocolate Options: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate or a mix of both for a marbled effect.
• Nut Butter Alternatives: Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
• Add Fillings: Insert a mini marshmallow, caramel piece, or crushed toffee inside the peanut butter filling for a surprise center.
• Toppings Galore: Experiment with chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or drizzle the candies with contrasting chocolate.
• Shape Change: Use pretzel rods or larger pretzels for a different presentation style.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is incredibly forgiving and fun to personalize.

There you have it: the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and indulgent flavors in every bite. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies are guaranteed to be a hit, whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as gifts, or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!).

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