Peppermint - pretzel candies are a delightful treat that combines the crispness of pretzels, the coolness of peppermint, and the sweetness of candy. These candies are not only delicious but also relatively easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your dessert - baking repertoire.

To start with, let's gather the necessary ingredients. You will need pretzels, which can be either the classic stick - shaped ones or the small, round pretzels. The choice depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve for your candies. For the peppermint flavor, you can use peppermint extract or peppermint candy canes. If you opt for candy canes, you'll need to crush them into a fine powder. And of course, you'll need chocolate. You can choose between milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, or even use a combination of them.

First, preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are evenly spaced so that the chocolate has enough room to spread without merging the candies together.

If you're using chocolate chips, place a small amount of chocolate chips on top of each pretzel. The amount can vary depending on the size of the pretzel, but generally, 1 - 2 teaspoons per pretzel should be sufficient. Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven for just a few minutes, usually about 3 - 5 minutes. The goal is to let the chocolate start to melt, but not to over - heat it. You'll know it's ready when you can easily spread the chocolate with a spoon or the back of a knife.

While the chocolate is still warm and pliable, it's time to add the peppermint flavor. If you're using peppermint extract, add a tiny drop or two on top of the melted chocolate and gently swirl it in. If you're using crushed candy canes, sprinkle them generously over the melted chocolate. The peppermint will not only add a wonderful flavor but also a beautiful, festive look to the candies.

After adding the peppermint, let the candies cool at room temperature. As they cool, the chocolate will harden, and the peppermint will become an integral part of the candy. You can also speed up the cooling process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 - 20 minutes. But be careful not to leave them in the fridge for too long, as the pretzels may become soggy.

Once the candies are completely cooled and the chocolate has hardened, you can remove them from the baking sheet. You can store these peppermint - pretzel candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They make a great snack on their own, or you can use them to decorate other desserts, such as cakes or ice cream.

Peppermint - pretzel candies are also a great option for gift - giving. You can package them in cute little boxes or bags and share them with your friends, family, or colleagues. They are especially popular during the holiday season, as the peppermint flavor is associated with Christmas and winter festivities.

Another variation of these candies is to add other toppings. For example, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before adding the peppermint. The combination of sweet, salty, and minty flavors is truly a taste sensation. You can also add some colored sprinkles for an extra pop of color, especially if you're making them for a party or a special occasion.

In conclusion, peppermint - pretzel candies are a versatile and delicious dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out in the world of dessert - baking, these candies are a great recipe to try. So, head to your kitchen, gather the ingredients, and start creating these wonderful peppermint - pretzel candies today!