Halloween is the season of fun, cozy gatherings, and of course—adorably spooky snacks! These Pumpkin Pretzels are the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and festive. With just a few pantry staples and some creativity, you can whip up a tray of these cheerful little pumpkins in no time.
They’re beginner-friendly, kid-approved, and a great family activity for a fall afternoon. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, prepping for movie night, or simply looking for a fun seasonal treat, these pumpkin-shaped pretzels will bring smiles to everyone around the table.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snack / Dessert | 15 minutes | 5 minutes (chill time) | 20 pretzels | ~120 per pretzel |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 20 mini pretzels
- 1 cup orange candy melts (or white chocolate + orange food coloring)
- 20 green M&M’s or candy-coated chocolates (for pumpkin stems)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, helps smooth the chocolate)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Melt the candy coating – Place orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Add coconut oil if needed for a glossy finish.
- Dip the pretzels – Using a fork, dip each pretzel into the melted candy, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off excess.
- Add the stem – While the coating is still wet, press a green M&M at the top of each pretzel loop to look like a pumpkin stem.
- Let them set – Place dipped pretzels on parchment paper. Allow to harden at room temperature for about 5 minutes (or pop in the fridge for quicker setting).
- Serve and enjoy – Once firm, transfer to a platter and watch them disappear in no time!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- No candy melts? White chocolate chips with orange food coloring work beautifully.
- Mess-free tip: Use a toothpick to remove extra coating from the pretzel holes.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Recipe Variations
- Spooky Faces: Use black gel icing to draw little jack-o’-lantern faces.
- Salty-Sweet Combo: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before the coating sets.
- Different Colors: Make white “ghost pretzels” with white chocolate or green “monster pretzels” with green candy melts.
Serving Suggestions
- Add them to a Halloween snack board with popcorn, cookies, and candy corn.
- Package a few in clear bags tied with festive ribbon for party favors.
- Serve alongside hot apple cider or hot chocolate for the perfect fall movie night treat.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Pretzels are proof that festive snacks don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple steps, you can turn everyday pretzels into the cutest (and tastiest) little pumpkins. They’re a sweet way to add a touch of magic to your Halloween celebrations, whether shared at a party or enjoyed at home with loved ones. Happy spooky snacking!