Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and salty with these keto chocolate covered pretzels. Ideal for low-carb lifestyles, they're a guilt-free way to satisfy cravings. These treats are surprisingly easy to make, require only 20 minutes of prep time, and use simple ingredients.
Why Keto Chocolate Covered Pretzels?
For those practicing healthy eating, treating yourself doesn't have to be out of the question. These pretzels offer a way to enjoy a savory snack without the guilt. The combination of sweet and salty creates an inexplicable magic, where each flavor enhances the other.
Ingredients and Variations
Pretzels
Get creative with your choice of pretzels. Mini pretzel twists are a good option because they create more surface area for toppings. Pretzel rods can also be used. To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pretzels.
Chocolate
Pick your favorite chocolate! Dark, milk, or white chocolate can be used. High-quality chocolate melts more smoothly and produces a better coating. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite combination. To reduce the sugar content, use low-carb chocolate chips. Lily's is a popular brand for this.
White chocolate chips or bars are often preferred because they are typically higher quality and taste better than candy melts or almond bark. However, candy melts and almond bark are more forgiving and melt easier. They also come in fun colors.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Toppings
Customize your pretzels with various toppings. Consider crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or crushed candy canes. Freeze-dried strawberries add a pop of berry flavor. You could pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries and stir some of the powder into the melted white chocolate to get more strawberry flavor. If you don't want to use strawberries, just leave them plain.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until it's smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate. Alternatively, melt chocolate in a double boiler over medium heat on the stovetop. To make your own double boiler, put a metal or heat-proof glass bowl or pot over a pot of one-inch simmering water. Simmering water should not touch the pot or bowl that is on top. Stir constantly. Ensure that no water gets into the chocolate, or it will seize. Adding a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the chocolate can help achieve a smoother and more manageable consistency for dipping.
Dip the Pretzels: Holding a pretzel by one end, dip it into the melted chocolate, coating it about two-thirds of the way. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. You can dip them halfway, which is faster and easier, or fully cover them.
Add Toppings: If you want to add toppings, do so while the chocolate is still wet. Sprinkle crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or crushed candy canes onto the chocolate-covered portion of the pretzel.
Set on Parchment Paper: Line baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper. Place the chocolate-covered pretzels on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet or tray. Make sure they're not touching each other.
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Let Them Set: Allow the pretzels to cool and harden. You can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Start with good quality chocolate, whether it's milk, dark, or white chocolate.
- Select the Right Pretzels: Choose pretzels that are fresh and in good condition.
- Melt Chocolate Gently: Use a microwave or a double boiler to melt the chocolate. If using a microwave, do it in short bursts (15-30 seconds) at a time, stirring in between. Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize and become lumpy. Make sure the chocolate is not fully melted. Start stirring and it should melt completely.
- Add Toppings Quickly: Add toppings while the chocolate is still wet so they stick properly.
Storage Instructions
Store your Chocolate Covered Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. You can freeze chocolate-covered pretzels to extend their shelf life.
Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate chips carry some surprising health benefits. This can help fight free radicals, boost the immune system, and defend against disease and cancer. Don’t feel bad about the occasional chocolate indulgence, especially if it’s dark chocolate!
Variations and Creative Ideas
- White Chocolate Strawberry Pretzels: These particular pretzels with the freeze-dried strawberries dusted on them are the best white chocolate pretzels. These delicious white chocolate pretzels are sprinkled with freeze-dried strawberries for a pop of berry flavor. Where do you buy freeze-dried strawberries? Trader Joe's always has them, and recently these have been more easy to find in regular grocery stores. Just look over by the dried fruit.
- Festive Christmas Pretzels: Add a bit of toffee bits or crushed candy cane.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzels: Use peanut butter chips.
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