Chocolate Covered Pretzels for a Healthy Snack Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate covered pretzels make a delightful snack that balances salty crunch with rich, smooth chocolate. This healthy version uses dark chocolate and berry powder for a flavorful twist that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without guilt.
Ingredients
- 16 whole-grain pretzel rods (about 4 inches each)
- 6 oz (170 g) 70% cacao chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tsp coconut oil, refined or unrefined
- 2 Tbsp freeze-dried strawberry or raspberry powder
- ⅛ tsp flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
- 1 Tbsp white chocolate chips (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper. Place the berry powder and flaky sea salt in separate small bowls for easy access later.
- Step 2: In a dry bowl, combine the finely chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until about 75% melted. Then stir off heat until the chocolate becomes smooth and fully melted.
- Step 3: Tilt the chocolate bowl slightly and dip each pretzel rod, rolling it once to coat evenly. Scrape off any excess chocolate on the rim of the bowl, then lay the pretzel on the parchment-lined pan.
- Step 4: Immediately dust the chocolate-covered pretzel with berry powder, then sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top. Repeat this process for all the pretzels.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the pretzels for 8 to 10 minutes until the chocolate sets and becomes firm.
- Step 6: (Optional) Melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle it in zig-zag patterns over the pretzels. Chill for an additional 2 minutes to set the drizzle.
- Step 7: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Tips & Variations
- Use dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for a richer flavor and health benefits.
- Substitute freeze-dried raspberry powder with blueberry or blackberry powder for different berry notes.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds along with the berry powder before chilling.
- To make the drizzle easier, warm the white chocolate gently over a double boiler instead of microwaving.
Storage
Store the chocolate covered pretzels in an airtight container or tin at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If stored in the fridge, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid storing in humid areas to keep the pretzels crisp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste, but dark chocolate offers a better balance of sweetness and health benefits.
What can I substitute for coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use a small amount of butter or vegetable oil to help melt the chocolate smoothly, though coconut oil helps give a nice shine and sets well.
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Chocolate Covered Pretzels for a Healthy Snack Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 chocolate covered pretzels 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and healthy chocolate covered pretzels made with 70% cacao chocolate, enhanced with a hint of berry powder and flaky sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. These guilt-free snacks are quick to prepare and ideal for satisfying your chocolate cravings without the added guilt.
Ingredients
Chocolate Coating
- 6 oz (170 g) 70% cacao chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tsp coconut oil, refined or unrefined
Snack Base
- 16 whole-grain pretzel rods (about 4 inches each)
Toppings
- 2 Tbsp freeze-dried strawberry or raspberry powder
- ⅛ tsp flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
- 1 Tbsp white chocolate chips (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Prep station: Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper to prepare for placing the dipped pretzels. Place the berry powder and flaky sea salt each in separate small bowls for easy access during topping.
- Melt: In a dry bowl, combine the finely chopped 70% cacao chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is about 75% melted. Then remove from microwave and stir continuously off the heat until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy.
- Dip: Slightly tilt the bowl to gather chocolate on one side. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate and roll it once to coat evenly. Scrape off any excess chocolate on the edge of the bowl and lay the pretzel carefully onto the prepared parchment-lined sheet pan.
- Top: Immediately sprinkle the dipped pretzels with freeze-dried strawberry or raspberry powder followed by a light dusting of flaky sea salt. Repeat this process with the remaining pretzel rods.
- Set: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is firm and set. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips separately and drizzle them in zig-zags over the set pretzels, then chill an additional 2 minutes to harden the drizzle.
- Serve: Enjoy the pretzels immediately as a healthy snack, or store them in an airtight tin at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using 70% cacao chocolate adds antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate, making this snack healthier.
- Freeze-dried berry powder adds vibrant color and natural fruity flavor without moisture, helping the chocolate set properly.
- Flaky sea salt enhances the flavor by providing a crunchy contrast and balancing sweetness.
- The optional white chocolate drizzle adds a decorative touch but can be omitted for simpler presentation.
- Store these pretzels in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent melting.
- You can substitute coconut oil with another neutral oil if preferred, but coconut oil helps the chocolate coat smoothly and set faster.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate covered pretzels, healthy snack, whole grain pretzels, 70% cacao chocolate, berry powder, sea salt, easy snack, low fat snack
