There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet and salty, and these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies take it to the next level. Crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate come together in perfect harmony to create bite-sized treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
I first came across this recipe during the holiday season, looking for something quick yet impressive to gift to neighbors. Since then, it’s become a go-to treat for everything from parties to last-minute desserts. Let’s dive into why these candies will become your new favorite indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with a treat that checks all the boxes: simple, delicious, and endlessly satisfying. These candies aren’t just a dessert—they’re an experience.
First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With no baking required, you can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or spontaneous cravings. Plus, they’re made with just a handful of pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
Another reason to adore this recipe? It’s perfect for sharing! Whether you’re packaging them up for gifts or serving them at a gathering, these candies are guaranteed to impress everyone who takes a bite.
Lastly, the balance of flavors and textures is unbeatable. The crunch of the pretzel, the creaminess of the peanut butter, and the smoothness of the chocolate come together to create pure magic.
So, whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day or a festive addition to your dessert table, these candies are sure to deliver.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies lies in their simplicity, but every ingredient plays an important role in creating their signature flavor and texture.
Mini Pretzels
The foundation of this recipe, mini pretzels provide that signature crunch and a touch of saltiness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate and peanut butter. Go for classic twisted shapes or opt for pretzel snaps if you prefer a sturdier base.
Peanut Butter
Creamy peanut butter works best here, as it creates a smooth, cohesive filling. If you’re a fan of chunky peanut butter, you can use it for added texture, but make sure it’s easy to spread.
Chocolate Chips
Use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, well-balanced flavor. If you prefer a darker or milkier chocolate, feel free to substitute. For a glossy finish, consider adding a small amount of coconut oil when melting the chocolate.
Powdered Sugar
Mixed with peanut butter, powdered sugar helps thicken the filling and adds just the right amount of sweetness. Be sure to sift it first to avoid any lumps.
Butter
A small amount of butter adds creaminess to the filling and ensures it holds together well during assembly.
No special equipment is needed for this recipe, but having a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate and parchment paper for easy cleanup will make the process even smoother.
How To Make These Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies
Creating these candies is as straightforward as it gets, but a few tips will help you nail them every time. Let’s break it down step by step.
Start by preparing your peanut butter filling. In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of softened butter. Stir until smooth and slightly firm. The consistency should be thick enough to roll into small balls without sticking to your hands.
Next, lay out your mini pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Scoop a small amount of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a ball, roughly the size of a marble. Place the ball on top of a pretzel, then gently press another pretzel on top to create a sandwich.
Once all the sandwiches are assembled, it’s time for the chocolate. Melt your chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If you’d like, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother, shinier coating.
Dip each pretzel sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Use a fork to lift the candy out, letting any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. Place the coated candies back on the parchment-lined sheet.
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative touch. Allow the candies to cool at room temperature or speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
And just like that, your candies are ready! The total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes, making this recipe perfect for a quick treat that looks like it took hours.
Storage Options
These candies store beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert or gift. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
- Refrigerator: If you prefer your candies slightly firmer, refrigerate them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to two weeks this way.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
When reheating (if necessary), avoid microwaving, as this can melt the chocolate unevenly. Instead, let them come to room temperature naturally for the best texture.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
- Nut-Free Option: Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or cookie butter to accommodate allergies.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or bars for a deeper, less sweet flavor profile.
- Flavor Twists: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the peanut butter filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Festive Flair: Decorate the candies with holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter for a seasonal touch.
- Different Pretzels: Try pretzel rods for a fun variation or use gluten-free pretzels for a dietary-friendly option.
No matter how you customize them, these candies are a guaranteed hit. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your favorite combination!
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate sweet and salty treat with Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Candies! These no-bake candies combine creamy peanut butter, crunchy pretzels, and rich chocolate for a delightful bite-sized snack that’s perfect for holidays or anytime cravings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 candies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: Sprinkles or sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and crushed pretzels until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the balls in the freezer for 20 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the chilled balls into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with toppings, if desired.
- Chill in the fridge until the chocolate is set.
Notes
- Use salted pretzels for a stronger sweet-salty contrast.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 95mg
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