These fun Pumpkin Pretzel Rods are a sweet twist on a crunchy snack! Coated in orange candy melts and sprinkled with cute festive toppings, they’re perfect for fall gatherings.
Every bite gives you that sweet and salty combo we all love. I like to set them out at parties, and they disappear faster than I can make them! 🎃🥨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzel Rods: The backbone of this recipe! I recommend using standard pretzel rods for a nice crunch. You can use thin pretzel sticks if you prefer a lighter option, but avoid soft pretzels as they won’t hold the coating well.
Orange Candy Melts: These gives the vibrant color. If you can’t find orange candy melts, you can use white candy melts and add some orange food coloring. This way, you can customize the shade to your liking!
Sprinkles: I suggest using a mix of white and black sprinkles for that festive look. You can also have fun with seasonal sprinkles like pumpkins or ghosts if you want to spice it up a bit! Just make sure they’re compatible with the candy coating.
How Do You Get the Candy Coating Just Right?
Dipping the pretzel rods in candy melts may seem tricky, but it’s all about timing! Here’s how to ensure you get that perfect coating:
- Make sure the candy melts are fully melted and smooth; a few small lumps are okay, but major chunks will clump up on your pretzels.
- Don’t rush the dipping! Gently rotate the pretzel while pulling it up to create an even coat, and let the excess drip off before sprinkling.
- If you’re adding sprinkles, do it right after dipping. The coating sets quickly, so it’s best to sprinkle while it’s still warm and tacky.
Trust me, the first dip is always the learning one, and soon you’ll be a pro with these festive treats!
How to Make Pumpkin Pretzel Rods
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 30 pretzel rods
- 12 oz orange candy melts
- 1/2 cup white sprinkles
- 1/2 cup black sprinkles
- Optional: gold or pumpkin-themed sprinkles for extra festivity
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 20-30 minutes for the pretzels to set. Overall, you can whip these up and enjoy them in less than an hour, making them a perfect last-minute treat for fall gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
To get started, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make cleanup easy and help the pretzels not stick!
2. Melt the Candy Coating:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the orange candy melts. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are completely smooth. You can also melt them over a double boiler if you prefer that method. Just be sure to keep them warm while you work!
3. Dip the Pretzel Rods:
Grab a pretzel rod and hold it by one end. Dip the rod into the melted candy coating, covering about 3/4 of the pretzel. You can twist it a bit to help get an even coat. Allow any excess coating to gently drip back into the bowl.
4. Add the Sprinkles:
After dipping each pretzel, immediately sprinkle a mix of white and black sprinkles over the coated part. This is where you can get creative! If you have other festive sprinkles, feel free to use them too.
5. Set the Pretzels:
Place the decorated pretzel rods upright on the lined baking sheet to set. Keep them spaced out to avoid sticking together.
6. Let Them Harden:
Leave the pretzels at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or pop them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to set quickly. Just make sure they are completely hardened before moving on!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pretzel rods are set, arrange them on a cute serving platter. They’re ready to impress your friends and family! Enjoy these sweet and salty treats any time this fall—they’re sure to be a hit!
These Pumpkin Pretzel Rods are not only tasty but also make for some delightful decor at your fall festivities. Happy snacking!
Can I Use White Chocolate Instead of Candy Melts?
Absolutely! You can use white chocolate or flavored candy melts if you prefer. Just be aware that white chocolate can be a little trickier to work with, so make sure to melt it slowly to avoid seizing.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Rods?
Store any leftover pretzel rods in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just keep them away from heat sources to prevent the coating from melting.
What Can I Use Instead of Sprinkles?
If you don’t have sprinkles, chopped nuts, crushed candy corn, or mini chocolate chips make great alternatives for decorating! Just ensure any substitutes you use can stick to the candy coating.
How Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free Pumpkin Pretzel Rods, simply use gluten-free pretzel rods. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free varieties that work perfectly in this recipe!