These pumpkin pretzels are irresistibly cute and tasty. They require no baking, making them a great option for a last-minute treat or a fun activity with kids. The combination of salty pretzels and sweet candy coating is a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily scale the recipe for parties or gift bags. Plus, they look like mini pumpkins—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Mini pretzel twists
Orange candy melts
Green M&M’s (or green mini chocolate candies)
Vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, to thin candy melts)
Directions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to the package instructions. If the candy is too thick, stir in a small amount of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to thin it out.
Dip each pretzel twist into the melted orange candy, using a fork to tap off the excess.
Place the coated pretzels on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Immediately press a green M&M into the top center of each pretzel while the coating is still wet, to resemble a pumpkin stem.
Let the pretzels sit at room temperature or in the fridge until the candy coating is completely set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 30 pumpkin pretzels and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare, plus additional time for the coating to set (about 15–20 minutes).
Variations
Use white chocolate dyed with orange food coloring if you don’t have candy melts.
Swap green M&M’s for mini green gummy candies or green icing for the stems.
Add orange sanding sugar to the wet coating for sparkle and texture.
Use pretzel rods dipped in orange candy for a pumpkin stick version.
Try adding pumpkin spice to the candy coating for a hint of seasonal flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store pumpkin pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from heat or moisture to prevent melting or softening. These treats do not require reheating and are best enjoyed at room temperature.
FAQs
What kind of pretzels work best for pumpkin pretzels?
Mini pretzel twists work best because their shape resembles a pumpkin when coated.
Can I use white chocolate instead of candy melts?
Yes, you can use white chocolate and add orange food coloring, though it may not be as smooth for dipping.
How do I prevent the candy coating from being too thick?
Add a teaspoon of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to thin the melted candy for smoother coating.
Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make them a few days ahead and store them in an airtight container.
Are these pretzels gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free pretzels and ensure your candy melts are gluten-free.
Can I use other colors for different themes?
Yes! Use different colored candy melts for various holidays or events.
How long do the pretzels take to set?
They usually set in about 15–20 minutes at room temperature or faster in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze pumpkin pretzels?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the candy coating to crack or sweat when thawed.
What can I use instead of green M&M’s?
Try green mini chocolate chips, icing, or small pieces of green gummy candy.
Are these treats kid-friendly to make?
Yes! This is a great recipe for kids to help with dipping and decorating.
Conclusion
Easy pumpkin pretzels are the perfect combination of cute, festive, and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a fall party, making Halloween goodies, or just want a simple seasonal snack, these no-bake treats are a fun and flavorful way to celebrate autumn.
Easy pumpkin pretzels are a festive, no-bake fall treat made with mini pretzels dipped in orange candy coating and topped with green M&M’s to resemble little pumpkins. Perfect for parties, Halloween, or cozy autumn snacking.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes (includes setting time)
Yield:30 pumpkin pretzels
Category:Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
30 mini pretzel twists
1 cup orange candy melts
30 green M&M’s (or green mini chocolate candies)
1 tsp vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for thinning candy melts)
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to the package instructions.
If the candy is too thick, stir in vegetable shortening or coconut oil to thin it out.
Dip each pretzel twist into the melted orange candy, using a fork to tap off the excess.
Place the coated pretzels on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Immediately press a green M&M into the top center of each pretzel while the coating is still wet to resemble a pumpkin stem.
Let the pretzels sit at room temperature or in the fridge until the candy coating is completely set, about 15–20 minutes.
Notes
Use white chocolate dyed with orange food coloring if candy melts aren’t available.Swap green M&M’s for green icing or gummy candies for the stem.Add orange sanding sugar before the coating sets for sparkle and texture.Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.These are a great make-ahead treat and kid-friendly to prepare.
