Copycat Chunky Candy Bars

These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re super simple to put together.These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re…

These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re super simple to put together.

These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re super simple to put together.

Want to try more homemade candy recipes? This Homemade English Toffee Recipe is one of my favorites. Crock Pot Candy is another incredibly easy candy recipe to try!

Chocolate candy squares with nuts and raisins.

Old Fashioned Chunky Candy Bars

Making homemade candy does not have to be hard. My easy peanut butter cups are the perfect example of an easy candy treat. And today’s old fashioned candy is right there.

No need for a thermometer, there’s no melted sugar involved, and you don’t even need to know what the soft ball stage is to make these easy, delicious candy bars.

Think of these Chunky Bars as a cluster of nuts, fruit, and chocolate. They have a chewy and crunchy texture. Making them is just a matter of melting chocolate and stirring everything together!

Here’s why you’re going to love this recipe:

  • Salty nuts contrast the sweet raisins, creamy chocolate with crunchy peanuts and chewy dried fruit—it’s absolute perfection.
  • It’s also easy to customize these chunky candy bars with your favorite ingredients.
  • Making these Chunky candy bars at home is quick and easy. They’re great for bake sales and tucking into tins of your favorite Christmas candies.

Only Five Ingredients

Ingredients needed to make chunky candy bars.

The full ingredient list is in the recipe card below, but here are some important things to note.

  • Chocolate – You’ll need milk chocolate morsels and unsweetened baking chocolate.
  • Coconut oil – This makes the chocolate smoother, shinier, and gives it an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth quality.
  • Salted peanuts – I love the contrast between salty roasted peanuts and raisins! Swap out for cashews or almonds for a nutty twist.
  • Raisins – If you’re not a fan, another dried fruit can be swapped in. Dried cherries and craisins are delicious alternatives.

How to Make Chunky Candy Bars

Melted chocolate for homemade candy.

Melt the Chocolate: Add the two types of chocolate and coconut oil to a warm double boiler. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted, then remove from heat.

Add the Mix-Ins: Stir the peanuts and raisins into the chocolate.

Step by step photos showing how to make homemade chunky bars.

Form the Candy Bars: Drop a tablespoon of chocolate into the cavities of a silicone brownie mold until you’ve used all of the chocolate mixture.

Set: Let the chocolate bars set at room temperature for 30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Finish: Remove the Chunky candy bars from the molds and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Chunky candy bars served on parchment paper.

Tips and Tricks

  • I like to use a silicone brownie pan because it’s the perfect size and shape for homemade Chunky candy bars and the soft silicone makes it easy to pop out the bars once they’ve set. 
  • Alternatively, you can use a square baking dish with parchment paper and pour the chocolate mixture into that. Once it sets, pull the parchment out of the pan, transfer it to a cutting board, and use a sharp chef’s knife to cut it into bars.
  • If you’d like, you can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. I like to use milk chocolate because that’s what’s in store-bought Chunky candy bars.

More Homemade Candy Recipes

These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re super simple to put together.
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Chunky Candy Bars Recipe

These homemade Chunky Candy Bars are loaded with salty roasted peanuts, raisins, and rich chocolate in every bite and they’re super simple to put together.
Course Candy
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat candy bar
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Set Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 24 pieces
Calories 37kcal
Author Aimee

Ingredients

  • 1 bag 11.5 ounce milk chocolate morsels
  • 1 ounce unsweetened baking chocolate
  • 1 Tablespoon coconut oil
  • ½ cup salted peanuts
  • ½ cup raisins

Instructions

  • Using a double boiler method, bring a small saucepan with 1-inch of water to a boil. Place a double boiler, or glass bowl, that fits on top of the saucepan over the water.
  • Add milk chocolate, unsweetened chocolate, and coconut oil to the warmed double boiler. Stir continuously until chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
  • Add in peanuts and raisins, stirring until combined,
  • Using a 1 Tablespoon scoop, drop a dollop of chocolate into the cavity of a silicone brownie mold (see notes below). Repeat until all the chocolate has been evenly divided into the mold.
  • Allow chocolate to set at room temperature for about thirty minutes, or place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to speed set the chocolate.
  • Once firm, pop each piece of candy out of the silicone cavity and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

  • I love using a silicone mold brownie pan, like this one on Amazon. You can also use a 9-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper if you prefer.
  • Dark chocolate can also be substituted for milk chocolate. However the original Chunky Candy bar is a milk chocolate treat.
  • Store candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • For a twist on flavor, swap out the raisins for other dried fruits.

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 14mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.01g | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Turtle Dessert

Our turtle dessert features layers of chocolate, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped cream with plenty of turtle candy to finish it off.

Our turtle dessert features layers of chocolate, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped cream with plenty of turtle candy to finish it off.

Peanut Butter Popcorn

Peanut Butter Popcorn in a large white bowl with Reese's Pieces sprinkled throughout.This easy Peanut Butter Popcorn recipe has fresh popped popcorn tossed in an incredible 4-ingredient peanut butter sauce! I love to toss in some Reese’s Pieces and enjoy this 15 minute treat for movie and game nights! Looking for more snack recipes? Try Caramel Popcorn, Cowboy Caviar, Sweet Chex Mix, or Chex Mix! How to…

Peanut Butter Popcorn in a large white bowl with Reese's Pieces sprinkled throughout.

This easy Peanut Butter Popcorn recipe has fresh popped popcorn tossed in an incredible 4-ingredient peanut butter sauce! I love to toss in some Reese’s Pieces and enjoy this 15 minute treat for movie and game nights!

Looking for more snack recipes? Try Caramel Popcorn, Cowboy Caviar, Sweet Chex Mix, or Chex Mix!

Peanut Butter Popcorn in a large white bowl with Reese's Pieces sprinkled throughout.

15-minute snack hack Peanut Butter Popcorn

There’s lots to love about this easy Peanut Butter Popcorn recipe, made with pantry staples in about 15 minutes. I’ll whip it up for a family movie night or a “late night” snack for my kids when they have friends over.

Make it your own by customizing the base recipe with other mix-ins. I like to replace a few cups of the popcorn with pretzels, Chex cereal, and other candy like marshmallows, candy corn, or chopped up candy bars.

How to make Peanut Butter Popcorn:

Pop popcorn and add to a extra large bowl.

Make Sauce: Stir together honey and sugar in a pot over medium heat. Boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Two images showing an easy 4 ingredient peanut butter sauce with the ingredients dumped in a saucepan, then after it's incorporated for the best peanut butter popcorn recipe.

Combine: Slowly pour HALF of the peanut butter sauce over the popcorn, gently stirring to coat. Add more, to your liking (you may not use it all). Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Two images showing how to make peanut butter popcorn by drizzling an easy peanut butter sauce on top of freshly popped popcorn then adding Reese's Pieces.

Recipe Variations:

  • Fall Party Mix: Replace one cup of popcorn with one cup of pretzels. Add some candy corn and Reese’s Pieces or M&M’s.
  • Toppings: After tossing the popcorn in the creamy peanut butter sauce, add some M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chips, or chopped Butterfinger.
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Popcorn: Allow peanut butter popcorn to cool, then drizzle with melted chocolate.

More No-Bake Treats:

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Peanut Butter Popcorn in a large white bowl with Reese's Pieces sprinkled throughout.
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Peanut Butter Popcorn

This easy Peanut Butter Popcorn recipe has fresh popped popcorn tossed in an incredible 4-ingredient peanut butter sauce! I love to toss in some Reese's Pieces and enjoy this 15 minute treat for movie and game nights!
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 352kcal
Cost $5

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 10-11 cups popped popcorn

Peanut Butter Sauce:

Instructions

  • Pop popcorn and add to an extra large mixing bowl.
  • Peanut butter sauce: In medium saucepan over medium heat add honey and sugar and stir well to combine. Bring to a boil then boil for 2 minutes, stirring. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
  • Combine: Slowly pour HALF of the peanut butter sauce over the popcorn and gently stir to coat. Drizzle more peanut butter sauce, until your desired coating is reached (you may not use it all, depending on preference). Add Reese's pieces, chocolate chips or other candy, if desired.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before eating.

Video

Notes

Yield: about 10 cups popcorn. Serving size 1 cup.
Storing Instructions: Store peanut butter popcorn in an airtight container for up to one week.
Fall Party Mix: Replace one cup of popcorn with one cup of pretzels. Add some candy corn and Reese’s Pieces or M&M’s.
Toppings: After tossing the popcorn in the creamy peanut butter sauce, add some M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chips, or chopped Butterfinger.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Popcorn: Allow peanut butter popcorn to cool, then drizzle with melted chocolate.

Nutrition

Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 113mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 44g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

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I originally shared this post October 2016. Updated August 2021 and October 2024.

The material in this blog post references the trademarked brand “Reese’s.” The use of this trademark is for informational and editorial purposes only and does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by The Hershey Company or any of its affiliates.

Homemade Candy Bar Recipes

These easy, fun, and irresistibly delicious Homemade Candy Bar Recipes make quick work out of recreating some of your favorite candy bars and goodies. Take 5 Candy Bar Bites Take 5 Candy Bar Bites combine layers of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and pretzels in mouth-watering two-bite candies. Homemade Twix Bites Vanilla wafer cookies topped…

The post Homemade Candy Bar Recipes appeared first on The BakerMama.

These easy, fun, and irresistibly delicious Homemade Candy Bar Recipes make quick work out of recreating some of your favorite candy bars and goodies.

Homemade KitKat bites, peanut butter cups, PayDay candy bar bites and Take 5 candy bar bites.

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites combine layers of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and pretzels in mouth-watering two-bite candies.

Two Take 5 Bites stacked on a parchment lined baking tray.

Homemade Twix Bites

Vanilla wafer cookies topped with sweet, sticky caramel and a rich chocolate coating. Homemade Twix Bites taste irresistible!

Homemade Twix bites on a parchment lined surface. One bite is cut in half with both halves stacked together to reveal the inside of the candy.

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups

With a smooth chocolate coating over a creamy peanut butter center, these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups are two bites of pure chocolate peanut butter bliss.

Four peanut butter cups on a stack of three small white plates. The top peanut butter cup has a bite out of it.

PayDay Candy Bar Bites

Crunchy peanuts and smooth, peanut-y caramel nougat create a salty, sweet reward in these PayDay Candy Bar Bites. Get ready to kick back and enjoy!

Easy Homemade KitKat Bites

Crisp wafers covered in rich chocolate make these Easy Homemade KitKat Bites as delicious as they are simple to make. Only two ingredients and they taste just like the real thing!

A pile of homemade Kit Kat candy bar bites on a parchment lined cooling rack.

Homemade Snickers Bites

These Homemade Snickers Bites satisfy a sweet tooth! A creamy peanut butter nougat, gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts and a rich chocolate coating one bite-sized treat at a time.

A pile of homemade Snickers bites on a parchment lined white plate. One of the candies has a bite out of it.

If you make any of my Homemade Candy Recipes, be sure to snap a picture and share it with me or tag me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see. If you’re on Facebook, be sure to join my Friends of The BakerMama group. Connect and share all the fun and yummy recipes of mine that you make! 😍 I just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas I share. Enjoy!

xoxo,

Maegan's Signature

The post Homemade Candy Bar Recipes appeared first on The BakerMama.

Caramel Popcorn

A bowl of a homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe with the perfect crunchy chewy texture.This homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe is so flavorful and has the crunchy, chewy texture you want without sticking to your fingers or teeth! If you want more sweet snacks, try our Peanut Butter Popcorn, Chex Mix, Sweet Chex Mix, or a perfect Rice Krispies Treat! How to make Caramel Popcorn: Pop Popcorn: Pop your own…

A bowl of a homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe with the perfect crunchy chewy texture.

This homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe is so flavorful and has the crunchy, chewy texture you want without sticking to your fingers or teeth!

If you want more sweet snacks, try our Peanut Butter Popcorn, Chex Mix, Sweet Chex Mix, or a perfect Rice Krispies Treat!

A bowl of a homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe with the perfect crunchy chewy texture.

Not all Caramel Popcorn recipes are created equal.

I’ve had my fair share of caramel corn and for me, the best ones have a healthy coating of caramel covering the entire kearnal, and they’re not too sticky, or too hard. This version accomplishes that and I love that the caramel is made in one pan on the stove and you don’t even need a candy thermometer. Drizzle the caramel over fresh popped popcorn and bake it for a few minutes to get that perfect crunchy, chewy texture. This will be the highlight of your next movie night or game day!

How to make Caramel Popcorn:

Pop Popcorn: Pop your own plain kernels in the microwave in a brown paper bag, or with an air popper, or if you want a richer butter flavor, use a bag of movie theater microwave popcorn. After it’s popped, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and pour the popcorn on top.

Make Caramel: Add butter to a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt, whisking until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it gently boil for 2 minutes then remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla.

Two images showing how to make a an easy caramel sauce on the stove to make the best caramel popcorn recipe.

Coat Popcorn: Drizzle caramel over popcorn, gently tossing it with a spatula until it’s coated evenly. Bake 200°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Enjoy the best caramel corn for a movie night, game day, or really anytime!

Two images showing how to make caramel popcorn by laying popped popcorn on a baking sheet, then drizzling homemade caramel on top, tossing, and baking to add that perfect crunch.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget a silicone spatula! It’s heat resistant and stays cleaner then a wooden spoon. I love to use a large non-stick skillet for this recipe because it’s so easy to clean and it comes to a boil much quicker than a saucepan.

More Caramel Recipes:

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A bowl of a homemade Caramel Popcorn recipe with the perfect crunchy chewy texture.
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Caramel Popcorn

Our easy caramel corn recipe has the perfect crunchy and chewy texture and is so easy to make. (No popcorn machine or special equipment required!)
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8
Calories 322kcal
Cost $4

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Add popped popcorn and spread in an even layer.
  • Caramel: Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. As soon as the caramel starts to gently boil, boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla
  • Drizzle caramel over popcorn. Toss gently with a spatula until the popcorn is evenly coated.
  • Bake at 200 degrees F for 45 minutes, stirring the popcorn every 15 minutes.
  • Store caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for to 2-3 weeks

Video

Notes

Popcorn: Pop your own plain kernels in the microwave in a brown paper bag, or with an air popper, or if you want a richer butter flavor, use a bag of movie theater microwave popcorn.
To Pop Popcorn without a Popper: Add ¼ cup popcorn kernels to a brown paper lunch bag and fold the top closed. Microwave for about two minutes, or until you hear the popping slowing down. 

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 197mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 53g | Vitamin A: 284IU | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 1mg

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Get recipe ideas weekly!

*I originally shared this recipe March 2015. Updated March 2019, September 2022 and September 2024.

PayDay Candy Bar Bites

Crunchy peanuts and smooth, peanut-y caramel nougat create a salty, sweet reward in these PayDay Candy Bar Bites. Get ready to kick back and enjoy! A Perfect PayDay Candy Bar Recipe 4 simple ingredients make one big pay off. Made with peanuts, peanut butter, marshmallow creme and crunchy, salty peanuts, these PayDay Candy Bar Bites…

The post PayDay Candy Bar Bites appeared first on The BakerMama.

Crunchy peanuts and smooth, peanut-y caramel nougat create a salty, sweet reward in these PayDay Candy Bar Bites. Get ready to kick back and enjoy!

A large white plate of payday candy bar bites on a white counter.

A Perfect PayDay Candy Bar Recipe

4 simple ingredients make one big pay off. Made with peanuts, peanut butter, marshmallow creme and crunchy, salty peanuts, these PayDay Candy Bar Bites are a sweet, salty escape. A soft peanut-y nougat topped with peanuts. They’re so full of delicious flavor and texture.

My homemade candy recipes make recreating your favorite candy bars so easy. Whether it’s 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups or super easy Homemade KitKat Bites or the super satisfying Homemade Snickers Bites, you’re gonna be in love at first bite.

A parchment lined surface stacked with PayDay Bites.

Simple and Simply Delicious Homemade Candy Bar

If you’re into sweet and salty combo, you’re going to love these homemade PayDay bars. You won’t believe how easy and quick they are to make! Just 4 ingredients and a few minutes and you’ll be in peanut heaven!

10 miniature payday candy bars on a parchment lined surface.

PayDay Candy Bar Bites Ingredients and Supplies

(see recipe card at the bottom of this post for measurements and details)

Ingredients:

Supplies:

Caramel squares, peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, and peanuts in small white dishes on a white marble counter.

How to Make PayDay Candy Bar Bites

  • Preheat the oven to 250°F. Unwrap and place the caramels a few inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 5 minutes to soften the caramels. They should not melt. They should just soften so that you can reshape them.
  • Meanwhile, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the peanut butter and marshmallow creme until well combined.
  • As soon as the caramels are softened, add them to the mixing bowl with the peanut butter and marshmallow creme mixture. Beat until the caramels are well incorporated and the mixture is thick and smooth.
Steps to make PayDay candy bar bites.
  • Place the peanuts in a shallow bowl.
  • Shape 1 tablespoon portions of the mixture into a 2-inch long log and immediately press the log into the peanuts so that it is coated on both sides.
Payday candy bar bite dipped in peanuts in a small white bowl.
  • Repeat with the remaining mixture and peanuts.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
16 miniature payday candy bars on a parchment lined surface.

How to Store PayDay Bites

Store homemade PayDay Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. 

To freeze, flash freeze in a single layer on a parchment lined sheet pan for about 1 hour. Then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe plastic bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Alternatively, flash freeze in a single layer for 1 hour and then space out in layers with parchment between each layer in a freezer-safe plastic bag or container to freezer for up to 3 months.

To defrost, keep wrapped and allow to defrost in the refrigerator first and then let come to room temperature before enjoying.

10 miniature payday candy bars on a parchment lined surface.

If you make these PayDay Candy Bar Bites, be sure to snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see. If you’re on Facebook, be sure to join my Friends of The BakerMama group to connect and share all the fun and yummy recipes of mine that you make! ???? I just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas I share. Enjoy!

xoxo,

Maegan's signature
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A large white plate of payday candy bar bites on a white counter.

PayDay Candy Bar Bites

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  • Author: The BakerMama
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bites

Description

Crunchy peanuts and smooth, peanut-y caramel nougat create a salty, sweet reward in these PayDay Candy Bar Bites. Get ready to kick back and enjoy!


Ingredients

  • 12 caramel squares
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup marshmallow creme
  • 1 cup roasted salted peanuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 250°F. Unwrap and place the caramels a few inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 5 minutes to soften the caramels. They should not melt. They should just soften so that you can reshape them.
  2. Meanwhile, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the peanut butter and marshmallow creme until well combined.
  3. As soon as the caramels are softened, add them to the mixing bowl with the peanut butter and marshmallow creme mixture. Beat until the caramels are well incorporated and the mixture is thick and smooth.
  4. Place the peanuts in a shallow bowl.
  5. Shape 1 tablespoon portions of the mixture into a 2-inch long log and immediately press the log into the peanuts so that it is coated on both sides.
  6. Repeat with the remaining mixture and peanuts.
  7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

The post PayDay Candy Bar Bites appeared first on The BakerMama.

Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and almonds with words on topChocolate Dipped Pretzels are a fast and easy dessert. They’re so fun and great for giving, quick snacks, or dessert tables. Chocolate with pretzel rods and nuts or sprinkles for topping – the salty sweet combination is fabulous – everyone loves these from kids to adults. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Once you make this…

pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and almonds with words on top

Chocolate Dipped Pretzels are a fast and easy dessert. They’re so fun and great for giving, quick snacks, or dessert tables. Chocolate with pretzel rods and nuts or sprinkles for topping – the salty sweet combination is fabulous – everyone loves these from kids to adults.

pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and almonds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Once you make this recipe for dipped pretzels once, you’re going to love how easy it is! There is nothing out there that has the flavor of this almond bark dipped pretzels – I promise!  Pretzels with almond bark have an amazing salty and sweet crispy flavor, and let’s not forget all the chocolate!

  • All you need are just a few minutes of time to make these dipped pretzel rods!
  • You only need a few ingredients
  • Kids can help make them and they last awhile in the refrigerator.
INGREDIENTS in pretzel rods on counter

Ingredients Needed

  • Chocolate – use your favorite kind. Semi sweet chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips work. My favorite chocolate for melting are candy melts (Ghirardelli tastes the best) but chocolate chips are easier and everyone has them in their pantry.
  • Vegetable oil – If you’re using chocolate chips, this helps them melt. You can substitute shortening if needed.
  • Chopped Nuts – We love chopped almonds but you can use any nuts. Swap sprinkles if you don’t want to use nuts.
  • Pretzel Rods – Rods are a must! Find these at the grocery store in the pretzel section.

How to make Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

  1. Stir chocolate chips and oil in a microwave safe bowl. Heat on high power in 30 second increments, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth.
  2. Dip each pretzel rod in the chocolate as for as you can in the bowl you’re using. If you want the chocolate to come further up the rod than the bowl allows, use a spoon to paint it up the rod. Tap off the excess chocolate, then place the rod on the prepared cookie sheet. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or other toppings.
  3. Repeat until the chocolate is gone. Chill to set.
pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and almonds

Expert Tips

  • I think that these make a great gift idea! Once you dip pretzels into the melted chocolate, put them on wax paper to firm up, and then add them to a cute food gift box! 
  • How to store dipped pretzels: As long as you store these pretzels in an airtight container, you can store them for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator!
  • Can you freeze dipped pretzels? I don’t recommend freezing them because they’re really simple and quick to make. As long as you have about 15 minutes of time, you can make them fresh. They might not thaw very well either, the pretzels will get soggy.
  • Use any toppings – not just nuts. You can sprinkle these with sprinkles or mini chocolate chips or candy!

FAQ

What can I use to decorate pretzel rods besides nuts? 

Sprinkles are always a great idea! You can easily omit the nuts and use sprinkles or even mini sweet chocolate chips instead. 

How far in advance can you make dipped pretzel rods?

If you want to prep ahead, you can! You can make these up to 14 days in advance, but be sure to keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. 

How long does it take for dipped pretzel rods to dry?

For them to be firmed up all the way, I’d give them about 45 minutes to 1 hour. 

How do you thin chocolate for dipping pretzels?

This is where adding the oil comes into play. If the dipping or melting chocolate is too thick, the oil will help to easily thin it out. 

How do you drizzle pretzels?

You can dip or drizzle pretzels; up to you! When you dip into the melted chocolate, you’re covering the entire top of the rod with chocolate.  When you drizzle, you just need to put a little bit of melted chocolate on a fork and then wave it back and forth over the top of the pretzel rod. This will drizzle the rod with chocolate, but it won’t be as thick. 

Dark Chocolate Almond Dipped Pretzels in a clear jar
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels Recipe

These Dark Chocolate Almond Dipped Pretzels are so easy to make! This recipe has only 3 ingredients and is perfect for snacking, parties, or gifts!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 12 Pretzel Rods
Calories 145kcal
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (270g) chocolate chips (any flavor – see note about using almond bark)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (any kind)
  • 12 Pretzel Rods

Instructions

  • Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Place chopped nuts in a bowl and gather pretzel rods.
  • Stir chocolate chips and oil in a microwave safe bowl. (I like to use Dixie paper bowls for this because it’s easy clean up.) Heat on high power in 30 second increments, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth.
  • Dip each pretzel rod in the chocolate as for as you can in the bowl you’re using. If you want the chocolate to come further up the rod than the bowl allows, use as spoon to paint it up the rod. Tap off the excess chocolate, then place the rod on the prepared cookie sheet. Sprinkle with chopped almonds. Repeat until chocolate is gone. Chill to set.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Video

Notes

  • To use almond bark or candy melts – use about 10 ounces and omit the oil. Melt according to package directions.
  • Swap the nuts out for sprinkles or any other toppings you like!

Nutrition

Serving: 1pretzel rod | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 98mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g

Easy Chocolate Dipped Pretzels are a great snack or dessert – or a great gift for the holidays! Sprinkle them with nuts or candy or sprinkles – the perfect recipe!

Favorite Pretzel Recipes

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites combine layers of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and pretzels in mouth-watering two-bite candies. My Favorite Candy Bar I’ve had a Homemade Take 5 Bar recipe for years, so it was only a matter of time before I made them bite-sized! I have a feeling you’re going to love these…

The post Take 5 Candy Bar Bites appeared first on The BakerMama.

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites combine layers of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and pretzels in mouth-watering two-bite candies.

Two Take 5 Bites stacked on a parchment lined baking tray.

My Favorite Candy Bar

I’ve had a Homemade Take 5 Bar recipe for years, so it was only a matter of time before I made them bite-sized! I have a feeling you’re going to love these Take 5 Candy Bar Bites as much as I do! A pretzel base topped with peanut butter, crunchy chopped peanuts, rich caramel, smooth chocolate and some flaky sea salt for good measure. They’re two bites of awesome!

A Take 5 Candy Bar Bite cut in half on a parchment lined baking tray. Visible are a pretzel topped with peanuts and peanut butter, caramel and chocolate.

Candy Bar Bites for the Holidays

Our family has so much fun making treats for the holidays. I can’t wait to share these Take 5 Candy Bar Bites with our friends and family. Along with other goodies like my Homemade Twix Bites, 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups and Easy Homemade KitKat Bites, they’re sure to be a hit.

A large white serving plate filled with Take 5 minis.

Sweet and Salty

Combining sweet and salty is one of my favorites. It’s why I sprinkle salt on my Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies. And on my Dark Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Filled Dates. These mini Take 5 bars are just as satisfying. Salty pretzels and peanuts plus sweet caramel. Sweet chocolate plus the bite of sea salt. Perfection!

A stack of three Take 5 Bites stacked on a parchment lined baking tray. The top bite is cut in half.

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites Ingredients and Supplies

(see recipe card at the bottom of this post for measurements and details)

Ingredients:

Supplies

Ingredients to make Take 5 Candy Bar Bites in small white glass dishes on a white marble counter.

How to Make Take 5 Candy Bar Bites

  • Arrange the pretzels on a small parchment-lined sheet pan that will fit in your freezer.
  • Spread each pretzel with about 3/4 teaspoon of the peanut butter.
  • Sprinkle the peanut butter on each pretzel with about a teaspoon of the lightly chopped peanuts.
  • Preheat the oven to 250°F. Unwrap and place the caramels a few inches apart on another parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 5 minutes to soften the caramels. They should not melt. They should just soften so that you can reshape them.
  • Remove the caramels from the oven and while they’re still warm slightly flatten each caramel into a square shape that will fit the size of the pretzel.
Steps to make Take 5 Candy Bar Bites
  •  Place the flattened caramel over the chopped peanuts on each pretzel.
  • Place the sheet pan of pretzel bites in the freezer for 15 minutes to flash freeze them.
  • When you’re ready to coat the pretzels in chocolate, place 1 cup of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30 seconds intervals until melted and smooth, stirring between each interval.
  • Remove half of the flash frozen pretzel bites from the freezer. Using a fork, dip and coat each bite completely in the melted chocolate, letting any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl before transferring the coated bite to a parchment-lined sheet pan.
  • Sprinkle each bite with a little flaky sea salt, if desired.
  • Repeat with the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips and remaining bites that are in the freezer.
Steps to make Take 5
  • Let the bites set at room temperature until the chocolate is completely set. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. 
24 Take 5 Candy Bar Bites on a parchment lined aluminum baking sheet.

How to Store Take 5 Candy Bar Bites

Store homemade Take 5 Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. 

To freeze, flash freeze in a single layer on a parchment lined sheet pan for about 1 hour. Then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe plastic bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Alternatively, flash freeze in a single layer for 1 hour and then space out in layers with parchment between each layer in a freezer-safe plastic bag or container to freezer for up to 3 months.

To defrost, keep wrapped and allow to defrost in the refrigerator first and then let come to room temperature before enjoying.

ake 5 Candy Bar Bites on a parchment lined aluminum baking sheet.

If you make these Take 5 Candy Bar Bites, be sure to snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see. If you’re on Facebook, be sure to join my Friends of The BakerMama group to connect and share all the fun and yummy recipes of mine that you make! ???? I just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas I share. Enjoy!

xoxo,

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Two Take 5 Bites stacked on a parchment lined baking tray.

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites

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  • Author: The BakerMama
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bites

Description

Take 5 Candy Bar Bites combine layers of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and pretzels in mouth-watering two-bite candies.


Ingredients

  • 24 square shaped pretzels
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts, lightly chopped
  • 24 caramel squares
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Flaky sea salt, for garnishing, if desired

Instructions

  1. Arrange the pretzels on a small parchment-lined sheet pan that will fit in your freezer.
  2. Spread each pretzel with about 3/4 teaspoon of the peanut butter.
  3. Sprinkle the peanut butter on each pretzel with about a teaspoon of the lightly chopped peanuts.
  4. Preheat the oven to 250°F. Unwrap and place the caramels a few inches apart on another parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 5 minutes to soften the caramels. They should not melt. They should just soften so that you can reshape them.
  5. Remove the caramels from the oven and while they’re still warm slightly flatten each caramel into a square shape that will fit the size of the pretzel. Place the flattened caramel over the chopped peanuts on each pretzel.
  6. Place the sheet pan of pretzel bites in the freezer for 15 minutes to flash freeze them.
  7. When you’re ready to coat the pretzels in chocolate, place 1 cup of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30 seconds intervals until melted and smooth, stirring between each interval.
  8. Remove half of the flash frozen pretzel bites from the freezer. Using a fork, dip and coat each bite completely in the melted chocolate, letting any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl before transferring the coated bite to a parchment-lined sheet pan. Sprinkle each bite with a little flaky sea salt, if desired.
  9. Repeat with the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips and remaining bites that are in the freezer.
  10. Let the bites set at room temperature until the chocolate is completely set. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

The post Take 5 Candy Bar Bites appeared first on The BakerMama.

Homemade Raspberry Pectin Gummies (no Gelatin!)

These delightfully chewy raspberry gummies are made with real fruit and set with pectin (indeed, there’s no gelatin required for this recipe, meaning they are vegetarian and even vegan-friendly)! While it does require time and precision, making your own gummy candies is incredibly satisfying and well worth the effort, resulting in perfectly sweet, chewy fruit […]

The post Homemade Raspberry Pectin Gummies (no Gelatin!) first appeared on Love and Olive Oil.

These delightfully chewy raspberry gummies are made with real fruit and set with pectin (indeed, there’s no gelatin required for this recipe, meaning they are vegetarian and even vegan-friendly)!

While it does require time and precision, making your own gummy candies is incredibly satisfying and well worth the effort, resulting in perfectly sweet, chewy fruit gummies bursting with bright raspberry flavor.

Small dish of Homemade Raspberry Pectin Gummies on a light pink background with linen and bowl of raspberries in the background.

Before we get started let me clarify that these are perfectly innocent gummies, not those kinds of gummies, and I cannot and will not advise as to how to adapt this recipe to be those kinds of gummies. Just so we’re clear up front. All good?

Moving on.

The raspberry flavor is on point. Many gummy recipes are basically water, sugar and pectin with concentrated flavorings mixed in at the end.

Not this recipe, which is made using real fruit in the form of pureed fresh raspberries (strained, because, let’s face it, seeds would mar the perfection that is the chewy gummy texture). Frozen berries will work here too, with a few caveats (see the notes at the bottom of this post for more on that).

Pectin-based gummies, while they do take more time and precision to make than gelatin-based recipes, present flavors more cleanly and produce a vegetarian-friendly candy with a lovely jammy chew. Think of the texture like a really thick jam, as that is essentially what it is (compared to gelatin gummies which are more stretchy/rubbery). It’s like the difference between a gumdrop and a gummy bear.

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