Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites
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These caramel apple pretzel bites are everything you love about a caramel apple without the stick, the mess, or the commitment.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this easy snack comes together in under 30 minutes and works for parties, potlucks, or anytime you want something sweet and salty.
Ingredients
- 2 small granny smith apples (lunchbox size works perfectly)
- Juice of ½ lemon plus 1 tablespoon water
- Square pretzel snaps
- 1 bag (11 oz) caramels, unwrapped
- ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons chopped dry roasted and salted peanuts
How to Make Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites
Cut and Soak the Apples First
Use an apple slicer to core and slice both apples. Cut each slice into thirds, or adjust the size so each piece fits neatly on top of a pretzel without hanging over the edges. Put the apple pieces in a bowl, add the lemon juice and water, and toss to coat.
This helps keep the apples looking fresh. Drain and dry the apples well on paper towels before using, since wet apples won’t stick to the caramel.
Soft Caramel is the Goal, Not Melted
Preheat the oven to 275°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out the pretzel snaps in a single layer and place an unwrapped caramel on each one. The bag might say 36 caramels, but you’ll probably have a few extra—most batches use closer to 40.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the caramels are soft but not completely melted. They should be pliable and stay on the pretzel.
Work Fast Once the Tray Comes Out
Take the tray out of the oven and quickly press an apple piece into each caramel before the caramel sets. Press just enough to anchor the apple, but not so hard that the caramel gets pushed off the pretzel.
Drizzle the Chocolate and Finish with Peanuts
Microwave the mini chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 60 seconds, stirring after 30 seconds, until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate into a resealable bag, seal it, and cut a small corner off.
Drizzle chocolate over each bite, then sprinkle with chopped peanuts before the chocolate sets. Let them sit until the chocolate hardens before serving.
These are best served the same day. If making ahead, assemble a few hours out and refrigerate covered, but plan to serve before the apple moisture softens the pretzels.
This easy snack recipe makes approximately 40 bites.
More Sweet and Salty Treats
If caramel and apple is your flavor combination, caramel apple cheesecake dip belongs in your recipe rotation — serve it with apple slices and pretzels for the same salty sweet vibe in a completely different format.
For a two ingredient option that also works beautifully with apple slices, marshmallow fruit dip is always a crowd pleaser. And if you want to build out a full dessert spread, this dessert dips roundup has everything you need.
Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites
Ingredients
- 2 small granny smith apples lunchbox size
- Juice of ½ lemon plus 1 tablespoon water
- 40 square pretzel snaps
- 11 oz caramels unwrapped
- ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons chopped dry roasted and salted peanuts
Instructions
- Core and slice apples using an apple slicer. Cut each slice into thirds or size to fit neatly on a pretzel snap. Toss apple pieces in lemon juice and water. Drain and pat completely dry on paper towels before using — wet apples will not stick to the caramel.
- Preheat oven to 275°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange pretzel snaps in a single layer and place one unwrapped caramel on each. Note: the bag may say 36 caramels but most bags contain closer to 40 or more. Bake 10 to 12 minutes until soft and pliable but not fully melted.
- Remove from oven and immediately press one apple piece into each caramel. Work quickly before the caramel begins to set.
- Microwave chocolate chips for 60 seconds, stirring at 30 seconds, until smooth. Transfer to a resealable bag, snip a small corner, and drizzle over each bite. Immediately sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Let stand until chocolate is fully hardened before serving. These are best served the same day — if making ahead, refrigerate covered and serve within a few hours before apple moisture softens the pretzels.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional data provided here is auto-calculated and intended for your convenience only. As it’s generated via automation, its accuracy may be compromised. For precise nutritional insight, please compute the values utilizing the actual ingredients in your recipe through your chosen nutrition calculator or application.
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