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These Candy Corn Pretzel Bites are a simple yet irresistible treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors for Halloween or any festive occasion. Small bite-sized snacks made from crunchy pretzels topped with melted Hershey’s kisses and finished with a candy corn piece create a fun and addictive combination that your guests will love.
I first made these for a Halloween party and was surprised how fast they disappeared. Now they are a year-round favorite for casual get-togethers and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- Seventy-five miniature bite-sized pretzels: provide the perfect salty crunch and base, look for pretzels that are uniform in size for even topping
- Seventy-five Hershey’s kisses from one 12-ounce bag: adds creamy smooth chocolate, unwrapping them carefully saves you time later
- Seventy-five pieces of candy corn: the sweet, fruity finish and festive colors are essential, buy fresh bags close to the holiday for best flavor and texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This low temperature gently softens the chocolate without melting the pretzels themselves.
- Arrange the Pretzels and Add Kisses:
- Place pretzels in an even layer on the baking sheet. Top each pretzel with an unwrapped Hershey’s kiss. Keep them neatly spaced to make adding the candy corn easier after melting.
- Bake Until Shiny and Soft:
- Pop the tray into the oven for 5 minutes. Watch carefully as the chocolate kisses turn shiny and slightly soft but still hold their shape. This step is key to achieve the right meltiness without losing form.
- Add Candy Corn Pieces:
- Remove the pan right away from the oven. Press a single piece of candy corn firmly into the center of each softened chocolate kiss. The warmth will spread the chocolate and secure the candy corn on top.
- Cool and Set:
- Let your candy corn pretzel bites cool at room temperature for about one hour or until the chocolate hardens completely and is no longer soft to the touch. Avoid refrigerating as it may cause condensation and affect the texture.
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Candy corn is my favorite part about this treat because it brings the perfect festive pop of color and seasonal sweetness. I remember making these with my kids every Halloween and how excited they were to help press the candy corn on top. It always feels like a little holiday tradition in our house.
Storage Tips
Keep these bites in an airtight container at room temperature away from heat or humidity. Proper storage keeps the pretzels crisp and the chocolate firm. When stored correctly, they stay fresh up to two weeks making them a great make-ahead snack.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap miniature pretzels with mini waffle pretzels for a slightly different texture but same great crunch
- Use any chocolate kisses you like such as dark chocolate or flavored varieties for a different twist
- If you cannot find candy corn, small colorful gummy candies work as an alternative to maintain the festive look
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Serving Suggestions
These bites are perfect for party platters and snack trays alongside other Halloween treats like caramel apples or popcorn balls. Serve with a warm fall beverage like apple cider or hot chocolate to complement the sweet and salty flavors. They also make adorable edible gifts packaged in clear cellophane bags tied with seasonal ribbons.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pretzels work best?
Miniature bite-sized pretzels are ideal since they create perfectly portioned pieces with a satisfying crunch to balance the sweetness.
- → Can I use other chocolates instead of Hershey’s kisses?
Yes, other bite-sized chocolates that soften well when warmed can be used, but Hershey’s kisses offer the perfect melt and shape for these bites.
- → How do I ensure the chocolate melts properly without burning?
Bake at a low temperature (around 200 °F) just until the kisses look shiny and soft; this gentle heat helps maintain the shape and texture.
- → How long can these treats be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Is it necessary to cool the bites before serving?
Yes, allowing them to cool until the chocolate solidifies ensures the candy corn stays secure and the texture remains firm.