Name: Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 40 mini pretzels; 2 medium Granny Smith apples, diced into small cubes; 20 soft caramel candies, unwrapped; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening; 1/4 cup white chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat with a touch of nostalgia, look no further than Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites. Each bite delivers tart apple wrapped in buttery caramel, all sandwiched between crunchy pretzels and dipped in luscious chocolate. Whether you’re planning a cozy evening snack, a fun fall party platter, or just want to treat yourself to a crowd-pleasing dessert, these no-bake gems come together in minutes and disappear even faster. Let’s get snacking!

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites is how effortlessly these simple pantry ingredients combine to give you layers of crunch, goo, and chocolatey decadence. Each component has a unique role: crisp pretzels add satisfying texture, tart apples bring brightness, and caramel plus chocolate make them downright irresistible.

Mini Pretzels: Choose mini twists or squares for the perfect bite-sized sandwich and salty contrast.
Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness cuts the sweetness and keeps every bite refreshing—dice them small for better stacking.
Soft Caramel Candies: Unwrap these classic, chewy candies for a buttery layer that holds the bites together.
Heavy Cream: Just a splash ensures your caramel melts smooth and spoons easily over the apples.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Melt these down for rich, chocolatey coating and a professional, glossy finish.
Coconut Oil or Shortening: This little addition keeps the chocolate silky and perfectly dippable.
White Chocolate Chips (optional): Drizzle these for a gorgeous finish and a hint of creamy sweetness.

How to Make Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This trick not only prevents sticking but also makes clean-up a breeze. Lay out your 20 bottom pretzels on the tray, setting the stage for this yummy assembly line.

Step 2: Build the Apple Base

Dice those Granny Smith apples into small, even cubes—think one for each pretzel. Plop a cube right on top of each pretzel base. If you want to keep them bright and crisp, feel free to toss the apple pieces in a squirt of lemon juice before you start building.

Step 3: Melt the Caramel

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your unwrapped caramels with the heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until everything is silky smooth. The heavy cream helps make the caramel spoonable and glossy.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Working quickly (because caramel sets as it cools), spoon a little bit of that dreamy caramel over each apple cube. Immediately top with a second pretzel, gently pressing down to form a sandwich. You’re looking for firm but not squished!

Step 5: Dip and Drizzle

Melt the semisweet chocolate chips together with coconut oil or shortening in a new bowl until glossy. Dip each pretzel bite halfway into the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off, then lay them back on your parchment. For a festive flair, melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the top in pretty zigzags.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Pop your baking sheet into the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and everything’s gloriously stuck together. Then, dig in—or arrange on a platter and share with friends (if you can resist!).

How to Serve Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites

Garnishes

Give your Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites a little extra oomph by sprinkling on a pinch of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cinnamon sugar, or even some finely chopped toasted nuts for bonus crunch. If you went with the white chocolate drizzle, a few sprinkles never hurt!

Side Dishes

These bites are bold on their own, but they play so nicely with cozy drinks like apple cider, spiced tea, or hot chocolate. For an indulgent dessert spread, pair them with other finger-food treats such as brownies, fruit skewers, or chocolate-covered strawberries.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites on a tiered tray for a party, pile them in little snack cups as lunchbox surprises, or wrap them in cellophane tied with ribbon for adorable edible gifts. Arranging them in a wreath or circle on your serving plate turns them into showstoppers for the fall table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), keep Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re at their best within a day to keep the apples crisp and fresh, but you might find they’re just as addictive on day two.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the fresh apples, which can turn mushy. If you absolutely must try, freeze in a single layer and plan to eat them frozen or thawed quickly for a firmer texture. They’re definitely a treat best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

No need to reheat—these bites are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’ve chilled them for storage, let them sit out for a few minutes to take the edge off the chill before you serve or snack.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert, Snack

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples add wonderful tartness to balance the sweetness, feel free to swap in Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples if you prefer something sweeter.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

A quick toss of your apple cubes in a little lemon juice will keep them fresh-looking and crisp. This is a particularly handy trick if you’re making a big batch or prepping a little ahead of time.

Is it okay to skip the white chocolate drizzle?

Of course! The white chocolate is optional for extra pizzazz. If you want to keep it simple (and a dash less sweet), just go with the semisweet chocolate dip or try a sprinkle of sea salt instead.

Can I make Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites gluten free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free mini pretzels. Every other ingredient should be naturally gluten free, but always check your labels to be sure.

What if I don’t have coconut oil or shortening?

No worries—if you’re out of coconut oil or shortening, you can melt the chocolate chips on their own. The oil just helps the chocolate stay smooth and shiny, but your bites will still taste fantastic without it.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites are one of those magical treats you’ll end up craving all year long. They’re easy enough for a last-minute snack attack but impressive enough to wow guests. Give them a try, get creative with your drizzles and add-ins, and don’t be surprised if they vanish seconds after hitting the table!

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 20 bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. With layers of caramel-coated apples sandwiched between mini pretzels and dipped in chocolate, these bites are a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Bites:

40 mini pretzels

Apple Filling:

2 medium Granny Smith apples, diced into small cubes

Caramel Coating:

20 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
1 tablespoon heavy cream

Chocolate Coating:

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening

Optional White Chocolate Drizzle:

1/4 cup white chocolate chips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Pretzel Bites: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 20 pretzels on the sheet and top each with a cube of apple.
Caramel Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spoon a small amount of caramel over each apple cube. Top with another pretzel to form a sandwich.
Chocolate Coating: Melt semisweet chocolate chips with coconut oil. Dip each pretzel bite halfway into the chocolate and return to the baking sheet.
Optional White Chocolate Drizzle: If desired, melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over the bites for decoration.
Chill: Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until set. Serve chilled.