Chocolate makes the world a better place. Wouldn't you agree? Oddly enough, I didn't grow up loving it. I never stuffed my face with Hershey’s bars or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups when I was little. I never even craved chocolate. It wasn't until I took a trip to Switzerland in 2016 that I fell in love with it. One visit to the Cailler chocolate factory, and it was all over. It was a trip I won at work, and they completely spoiled us by gifting us with a chocolate-making class. The sweet smell the entire time we were in the building was almost seductive. It's like that tantalizing aroma cast a spell on me. Four decades of my life, no need for chocolate. One trip to Callier, and I'm hooked. Perhaps it had something to do with the endless samples they fed us. Ahhhh, Callier, I miss you, and I thank you for opening my eyes to the world of chocolate.
Now, I could eat a piece every night after dinner (but I don't). I'm always looking for ways to have a little nibble, and I love chocolate covered pretzels. Hence, why I had to create these gluten-free chocolate covered pretzel sticks. They're a bite-sized guilt-free snack when you're craving something chocolate. And they're easy enough and fun for all ages to make. The chocolate's sweetness combined with the pretzel's salt and crunch is a delightful combo, and the nonpareils make them colorful and fun. These are gluten-free if you want them to be. Otherwise, use regular pretzels. The pretzel sticks work for me because I can get my chocolate fix, but they keep me accountable. I only eat 3-4 at a time. You can use any shape pretzel you like: twists, rings, or rods. And they’re incredibly quick to make. Most of the time is letting them set in the fridge. They’re fun for birthday parties and also make a nice homemade treat for gifting.