Introduction
These Witch Finger Pretzel Rods are one of my favorite quick Halloween treats to make. The combination of salty pretzel, sweet candy coating, and crunchy almond “fingernail” is surprisingly addictive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy No-Bake Treat: Just melting, dipping, and decorating.
- Great Salty & Sweet Combo: Satisfies both cravings.
- Perfectly Creepy Look: They genuinely look like gnarled witch fingers!
- Fun to Decorate: Easy enough for kids to help with.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: They can be made a day or two in advance.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag green candy melts
- About 24 pretzel rods
- About 24 whole blanched almonds (or slivered almonds)
- Optional: Red decorating gel or melted red candy melts for “blood”
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- First, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Next, place the green candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
- Then, pour the melted green candy into a tall, narrow glass or mug (this makes dipping the long pretzel rods easier).
- Hold a pretzel rod by one end and dip about 3/4 of its length into the melted green candy, turning to coat evenly. Lift it out and let any excess drip off.
- Lay the coated pretzel rod flat on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Also, while the candy coating is still wet, immediately press an almond firmly onto one end to resemble a fingernail.
- Optional: Use a toothpick or the back of a spoon to create light “knuckle” lines or wrinkles in the green candy coating before it sets.
- Repeat with the remaining pretzel rods.
- Let the pretzel rods sit at room temperature (or place in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes) until the candy coating is completely hardened.
- Finally, optional: Once set, you can use red decorating gel or melted red candy melts to add a touch of “blood” around the base of the almond “fingernail.”
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips
However, if your melted candy is too thick for dipping, stir in a tiny bit (1/2 teaspoon at a time) of vegetable shortening or coconut oil until it reaches a smoother consistency. Work quickly, as the candy melts will start to harden.