Here’s a fun and easy treat: Caramel Pretzel Sticks — salty, sweet, and perfect for parties, gifts, or quick dessert cravings. Think chocolate-dipped pretzels… but better, with gooey caramel and crunchy toppings!
🥨 Caramel Pretzel Sticks
Ingredients (Makes ~20 sticks)
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20 large pretzel rods
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1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels (like Kraft)
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2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
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1 ½ cups chocolate chips or melting chocolate (milk, dark, or white)
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Optional toppings:
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Crushed nuts
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Sprinkles
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Mini M&Ms
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Sea salt
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Crushed cookies or toffee bits
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🔪 Instructions
1. Prep Your Workspace
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Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
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Set up a cooling rack or another tray nearby for dipped pretzels.
2. Melt the Caramel
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Unwrap caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with the cream.
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Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total).
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Let it cool slightly so it thickens a bit — it should coat the pretzels without sliding off too quickly.
3. Dip in Caramel
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Dip pretzel rods about 2/3 of the way into the melted caramel.
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Let excess drip off, then place on parchment-lined tray.
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Let them set slightly (you can pop them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up).
4. Melt the Chocolate
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In a separate bowl, melt chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
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(Add 1 tsp coconut oil or shortening for a smoother finish, if desired.)
5. Dip in Chocolate
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Once caramel is set, dip the caramel-coated portion of the pretzels into melted chocolate.
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Let excess drip off, then place on parchment.
6. Add Toppings
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While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with your choice of toppings.
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Let them set at room temp or chill until chocolate is firm.
✅ Tips:
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Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week.
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For gifting, wrap each in cellophane and tie with ribbon.
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Want it faster? Use caramel sauce + skip setting between steps (messier, but still tasty).
Let me know if you’d like a no-dairy version, or to make your own caramel from scratch!