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Patriotic Pretzel Rods

Patriotic pretzel rods are a quick no-bake treat: pretzel rods are dipped in melted white candy melts, then decorated with red, white, and blue sprinkles. The coating hardens into a crunchy, glossy shell that’s easy to make for parties.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
resting/hardening 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

pretzel rods
  • 12 pretzel rods
white candy melts or white chocolate
  • 12 oz white candy melts or white chocolate
coconut oil (optional)
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional) Use only if the melted coating seems thick.
red sprinkles
  • 0.25 cup red sprinkles
blue sprinkles
  • 0.25 cup blue sprinkles
white star sprinkles
  • 2 tbsp white star sprinkles
red, white, and blue sanding sugar (optional)
  • 1 red, white, and blue sanding sugar (optional) Optional extra sparkle after dipping.

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Prep
  1. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Melt white candy melts according to package directions until smooth and pourable.
  3. Stir in coconut oil if needed for a smoother coating, then keep it warm enough to dip.
Dip and decorate
  1. Dip each pretzel rod about three-quarters of the way into the melted chocolate.
  2. Gently tap off excess coating so the bottom doesn’t pool.
  3. Immediately decorate with red sprinkles, before the coating sets.
  4. Immediately decorate with blue sprinkles, covering the wet chocolate while it still clings.
  5. Immediately add white star sprinkles for a starry patriotic finish.
  6. If using, sprinkle red, white, and blue sanding sugar over the wet coating for extra sparkle.
  7. Place each dipped pretzel rod back on the prepared sheet pan and keep space between them.
Set
  1. Allow the coating to harden completely at room temperature until firm to the touch.
Serve or store
  1. Serve immediately for the best snap, or store in an airtight container for later.

Notes

Pro tip: Dip in batches and decorate right away—sprinkles stick best when the chocolate is still glossy. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended because the coating can lose its crisp texture. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based white chocolate or candy melts formulated to be dairy-free.