Pumpkin Spice Pretzels

Ingredients

• 24 oz White Chocolate (High-quality white chocolate, divided: 20 oz for dipping, 4 oz for drizzling. Use baking bars or chips. Ghirardelli or similar recommended.)
• 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (Freshly opened pumpkin pie spice for best aroma. Adjust to 1.5 tsp for a stronger flavor.)
• 2 drops Orange Food Coloring (Optional; gel food coloring is preferred for vibrant color. Use sparingly to achieve desired tint.)
• 8 oz Pretzel Twists (One half of a 1 lb bag of pretzel twists; choose a size that is easy to dip. Ensure freshness.)
• Orange Sprinkles (Optional, for decoration. Use orange sanding sugar or festive fall-themed sprinkles.)

Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line three large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the chocolate from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Melt Dipping Chocolate: Melt 20 oz of white chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water or in the microwave. If microwaving, heat in 15-second intervals, stirring well between intervals to ensure even melting and to prevent burning. The chocolate should be completely smooth and fluid.
3. Flavor the Chocolate: Once melted, stir in pumpkin pie spice and orange food coloring (if using) into the melted chocolate until evenly combined. Mix thoroughly for consistent flavor and color throughout.
4. Dip the Pretzels: Dip pretzel twists approximately 3/4 of the way into the warm, flavored chocolate. Rotate the pretzel slightly to ensure even coating.
5. Remove Excess Chocolate: Lift each dipped pretzel and gently tap or shake off any excess chocolate to prevent a thick, uneven coating. A fork can be used to scrape off extra chocolate from the bottom of the pretzel.
6. Arrange Pretzels: Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart to prevent sticking. Ensure they are lying flat so the chocolate sets evenly.
7. Melt Drizzling Chocolate: Melt the remaining 4 oz of white chocolate using the same method (double boiler or microwave). Again, melt in short intervals if microwaving, stirring until smooth.
8. Drizzle Chocolate: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the dipped pretzels in a decorative pattern. Use a fork, spoon, or piping bag for creating thin, even lines. Create your own design for visual appeal.
9. Add Sprinkles: Optional, immediately sprinkle the orange sprinkles (or other themed sprinkles) over the drizzled chocolate before it sets. Press lightly to ensure they adhere well.
10. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the baking sheets for about 30-45 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set and hardened. Chilling helps the chocolate set quickly and prevents the pretzels from becoming soggy.
11. Serve: Once set, carefully remove the pumpkin spice pretzels from the baking sheets. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent the chocolate from melting.