Chocolate Peppermint Covered Pretzels

 Chocolate Peppermint Covered Pretzels

Yields: About 24 pretzels

Prep time: 15 minutes

Chill time: 30 minutes (optional)

Ingredients:

 * 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips

 * 1 tablespoon shortening

 * 1 cup crushed peppermint candies

 * 24 pretzel rods

Instructions:

 * Line a baking sheet: with parchment paper.

 * Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

 * Dip pretzels: Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating evenly. Let excess chocolate drip off.

 * Sprinkle with peppermint: Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the chocolate-coated pretzels.

 * Chill (optional): For extra firmness, chill the pretzels in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

 * Store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips:

 * For a festive touch, use candy canes instead of peppermint candies.

 * To make mini pretzels, use pretzel sticks instead of rods.

 * For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or sprinkles to the chocolate before it sets.

Enjoy your delicious and festive Chocolate Peppermint Covered Pretzels!