Looking for a fun snack that blends sweet and salty? You’re in the right place! In this article, I’ll share my recipe for Cherry Chocolate Covered Pretzels—a treat you’ll love to make and share. With just a few ingredients, a simple process, and some tasty tips, you’ll have a delightful snack ready in no time. Let’s dive into this easy and fun recipe together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups mini pretzels
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– ½ cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Optional Ingredients
– ½ cup white chocolate chips for drizzling
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these cherry chocolate covered pretzels has about:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
Knowing the ingredients helps you plan better. The mini pretzels give a nice crunch. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor and sweetness. Dried cherries bring a fruity touch. Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly.
Optional white chocolate adds a fun twist. You can drizzle it for a pretty look. Adding sea salt on top makes it even better. It creates a sweet and salty mix that everyone loves.
If you want to know more, check out the Full Recipe for details on how to make these tasty treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
First, gather your ingredients. You will need two cups of mini pretzels, one cup of dark chocolate chips, and half a cup of dried cherries. Chop the dried cherries into small pieces. This helps them stick better to the chocolate. I also like to add one tablespoon of coconut oil to make the chocolate smooth.
Melting Chocolate
Take a microwave-safe bowl and add the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time. Stir the mixture in between. Keep doing this until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. This step is important for a nice coating.
Coating the Pretzels
Now, dip each pretzel into the melted chocolate. Make sure the pretzel is evenly covered. Use a fork to lift it out. Allow any extra chocolate to drip off. Place the pretzel on the parchment paper. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle some chopped cherries on top. This adds a burst of flavor. Repeat this for all the pretzels.
Final Touches
If you want to add a fun twist, melt half a cup of white chocolate chips like you did with the dark chocolate. Use a fork to drizzle it over the coated pretzels. This adds a nice look and taste. Finally, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top. It creates a great sweet and salty balance. Refrigerate the pretzels for about 30 minutes. Once the chocolate is set, gently peel them off the parchment paper. Enjoy your tasty treat! For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Chocolate Coating
To achieve a smooth chocolate coating, melt the chocolate slowly. Use a microwave and heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals, so it doesn’t burn. If the chocolate is too thick, add a bit of coconut oil. This helps it flow better. Dip each pretzel fully to coat all sides. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing it on parchment paper. This avoids clumps and allows for an even finish.
Best Types of Chocolate to Use
For this recipe, dark chocolate works best. It balances well with the sweetness of cherries. You can also use milk chocolate for a creamier taste. White chocolate offers a nice contrast and sweet touch. Feel free to mix chocolates for a fun twist. Always choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not letting the chocolate cool slightly before dipping. This can lead to a runny coating. Another mistake is not using parchment paper. Without it, the pretzels may stick and break. Be careful not to overload with toppings. A little cherry goes a long way! Lastly, don’t rush the setting process. Allow the chocolate to harden fully in the fridge for the best crunch.
Variations
Different Chocolate Options
You can play with different types of chocolate in this recipe. While dark chocolate adds a rich taste, milk chocolate gives a sweeter flavor. You can even use white chocolate for a fun twist. Each type brings its own charm. Just remember to melt it the same way as dark chocolate for the best results.
Substituting Nuts or Other Fruits
Add some crunch by tossing in nuts. Chopped almonds or pecans work well. You can also swap the dried cherries for other fruits. Dried cranberries or apricots add unique flavors. These changes make your pretzels special and fun. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combination.
Seasonal Variations (Holiday Themes)
You can dress up these pretzels for any season. For Christmas, add red and green sprinkles. During Halloween, use orange and black sprinkles. You can even shape the pretzels into festive forms. Try making hearts for Valentine’s Day. These small touches make your treats perfect for any occasion.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your cherry chocolate covered pretzels in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, put them in the fridge. Make sure they are not crushed or broken in the container.
Freezing Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
You can freeze these treats if you have extras. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
These pretzels taste best within a week. After that, they may lose their crunch. To keep them fresh, avoid exposure to heat or sunlight. If you see any signs of moisture, it is best to toss them. Enjoy the cherry chocolate covered pretzels while they are at their best! For the full recipe, check above.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate. Milk chocolate will give a sweeter taste. Just melt it the same way as dark chocolate. The creaminess of milk chocolate pairs well with the cherries.
How do I make these pretzels vegan?
To make the pretzels vegan, switch to dairy-free chocolate. Look for brands that use coconut or almond milk. Make sure the pretzels are also dairy-free. You can find vegan pretzels at most stores.
Where can I buy ready-made cherry chocolate covered pretzels?
You can find ready-made cherry chocolate covered pretzels at many grocery stores. Look in the snack aisle or the candy section. Online retailers also sell them. Check sites like Amazon or specialty snack shops.
What are some pairing suggestions for these pretzels?
These pretzels pair well with sweet and salty treats. Try serving them with fresh cherries or strawberries. A glass of milk or a cup of coffee goes well too. For a fun twist, enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
You learned how to make delicious chocolate-covered pretzels. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You also found ideas for variations and how to store your treats.
With these recipes, you can impress friends and family. Enjoy experimenting and personalizing each batch. Happy snacking!
