These Pumpkin Spice Pretzels are a fun snack that brings fall flavor to life! They’re soft, salty, and dusted with a sweet pumpkin spice blend that makes them absolutely tasty!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a twist on a classic? I find myself sneaking a few while watching a movie. They’re perfect with a cozy blanket and a warm drink! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Small Pretzels: You can use traditional pretzels or even pretzel sticks. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pretzels available in most stores. They still give that satisfying crunch!
White Chocolate Chips: If you’re not into white chocolate, try using dark chocolate or even vanilla-flavored candy melts. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend gives it that warm flavor. If you don’t have it, mix ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger together in the same amounts. It works just as well!
Candy Decorations: Pearl sugar adds a nice crunch, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it. Regular granulated sugar or even crushed nuts make interesting toppings!
How Can I Melt Chocolate Smoothly?
Melted chocolate needs a bit of care to get it just right. Here are some steps to ensure it’s perfectly smooth:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl, and make sure it’s dry—water can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Heat in small intervals—20 to 30 seconds is best. Stir after each interval until it’s fully melted.
- Don’t overheat! Chocolate holds its shape even when it’s melting. Stir it until it’s smooth.
This approach helps prevent burning it and gives you that nice, velvety texture you want for dipping!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz package of small pretzels
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- Optional: pearl sugar or coarse sugar for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes for the chocolate to set. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to homemade, tasty Pumpkin Spice Pretzels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Chocolate:
Start by placing the white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds at a time. Stir well after each interval until everything is nice and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it!
2. Mix in the Spices:
Once your chocolate is melted, add in the pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir it all together until the spices are fully mixed in. Your chocolate should now smell like fall!
3. Dip the Pretzels:
Take each pretzel and dip it halfway into the spiced chocolate mixture. Let the extra chocolate drip back into the bowl so there’s not too much on them.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the dipped pretzels onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will help them come off easily once they’re set!
5. Add Some Sweet Crunch:
If you’d like, sprinkle the dipped pretzels with pearl sugar or coarse sugar right away before the chocolate sets. This gives them a lovely extra texture!
6. Drizzle for Style:
With any leftover spiced chocolate in the bowl, you can drizzle it over the pretzels for a decorative touch. Just use a spoon and let it fall in thin streams over the top.
7. Let It Set:
Now you’ll want to let the chocolate set completely. You can either leave them at room temperature or pop them in the refrigerator for quicker setting—about 30 minutes should do the trick!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate is all set, they’re ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at parties, as a cozy treat at home, or just indulge yourself. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Regular Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark or milk chocolate can be used in place of white chocolate. Just be aware that it will change the flavor profile, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Pie Spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can make your own by mixing together 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, and a pinch of allspice if you have it. It works great!
How Long Do These Pretzels Last?
These pumpkin spice pretzels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
Can I Freeze the Pretzels?
Yes, you can! Place the pretzels in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!