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Christmas Caramel Pretzel Bites Recipe

4.8 from 126 reviews

These Christmas Caramel Pretzel Bites are a festive, bite-sized treat combining salty pretzels with soft caramel centers and vibrant candy coatings, perfect for holiday parties or gift-giving. The crunchy pretzel base and sweet caramel are coated in colorful red, green, and white candy melts, then topped with cheerful holiday sprinkles for an irresistible seasonal snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 48 mini pretzel twists
  • 12 soft caramels, unwrapped and cut in half

Candy Coating

  • 1 cup red Candy Melts
  • 1 cup green Candy Melts
  • 1 cup white Candy Melts
  • 12 tablespoons vegetable shortening

Toppings

  • Holiday sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Arrange the mini pretzel twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place a caramel half on top of each pretzel.
  2. Melt the Caramels: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pretzels with caramels for about 2–3 minutes or until the caramels are soft but not completely melted, allowing them to slightly soften for easier coating.
  3. Melt the Candy Coating: While the pretzels are warming, melt each color of Candy Melts in separate microwave-safe bowls. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently, until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vegetable shortening per bowl to achieve a smooth, dip-friendly consistency. Add the extra tablespoon if needed.
  4. Dip the Pretzel Bites: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each caramel-topped pretzel into one of the melted candy coatings, covering it completely. Allow excess coating to drip off.
  5. Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle holiday sprinkles on top of the wet candy coating to add color and festive charm.
  6. Set and Cool: Place dipped pretzel bites back onto the parchment-lined sheet. Let them cool completely at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating them for 15–20 minutes until the candy coating hardens.

Notes

  • Ensure caramels do not overbake as they can become too runny to coat properly.
  • Vegetable shortening helps achieve a smooth candy melt consistency ideal for dipping.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Store finished pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Customize colors and sprinkles for different holiday themes or occasions.

Keywords: Christmas treats, caramel pretzel bites, holiday snacks, festive candy coating, easy holiday recipe, sweet and salty bites