If you’re short on time but still want something festive, Ghost Pretzels are the easiest Halloween treat you’ll ever make. With just three ingredients—mini pretzels, white chocolate, and candy eyeballs—you’ll create spooky, sweet little ghosts that kids (and adults) can’t resist. No oven, no fancy skills, and no stress required. These no-bake Halloween snacks are ready in minutes and perfect for parties, classroom events, or just a fun afternoon project. Whether you’re decorating dessert platters or looking for edible crafts, these bite-sized ghouls are all treat, no trick.
The Story & Intro – Sweet, Spooky, and So Simple
The snack that made Halloween fun again
Sometimes the best Halloween treats are the ones you don’t have to plan weeks in advance. One rainy afternoon, looking for a no-fuss activity that didn’t involve baking, these Ghost Pretzels were born. I had leftover white chocolate chips, a bag of mini pretzels, and—luckily—a stash of candy eyeballs from last year’s Halloween bin. That was all it took.
In just 20 minutes, we had a tray full of tiny, edible ghosts lined up on parchment paper. Some had wide eyes, others looked like they were mid-scream—every single one was a little different and absolutely adorable. They were sweet, salty, and vanished faster than I expected.
A treat for all ages
What I love most about Ghost Pretzels is how fun they are to make. Kids can get in on the action, pressing candy eyeballs into melted chocolate and pretending each one has a unique personality. Adults love them too—especially when they realize just how good the white chocolate and salty pretzel combo tastes.
You don’t need a candy thermometer or piping bags—just a microwave, a fork, and a little imagination. Whether you’re prepping a Halloween party or making snack bags for school, these ghostly bites are a creative, low-effort win that looks great and tastes even better.
ngredients & Easy Method
Three ingredients. One spooky treat.
You don’t need a pantry full of ingredients to make something fun for Halloween. These Ghost Pretzels prove that simple can still be spectacular. All you need are:
- Mini pretzels: The classic twist shape is perfect for creating ghost faces. Look for brands like Snyder’s or Shultz.
- White chocolate: Use quality vanilla milk chips for smooth melting and a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the pretzels.
- Coconut oil or shortening: Just a small amount helps thin the chocolate, making dipping easier and smoother.
- Candy eyeballs: The magic touch. A little personality goes a long way.
With these four basic elements, you’re ready to make a spooky snack that looks way more impressive than it is difficult.
Step-by-step ghostly goodness
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment, wax paper, or a silicone mat. This keeps the pretzels from sticking and makes cleanup fast. Melt your white chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil in the microwave using 10-20 second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable.
Use a fork to dip each pretzel into the chocolate, coating it completely. Let the excess drip off and gently shake the chocolate from the bottom hole—this becomes the ghost’s “mouth.” Place the dipped pretzel on your baking sheet and immediately press in two candy eyeballs at the top. That’s it!
Repeat with the rest. If the chocolate starts to harden, microwave it once more briefly. When done, chill the pretzels in the freezer for 10 minutes to harden quickly.
Once set, they’re ready to serve. Sweet, salty, spooky—and ridiculously easy.
Ghost Pretzels
Ingredients
- 30 mini pretzels (like Shultz or Snyder’s)
- ▢6 oz 170 g Guittard Vanilla Milk Chips, (equal to 1 cup; half of a 12oz bag)
- ▢½ tsp coconut oil or shortening for thinning the chocolate
- ▢0.88 oz 25 g pkg Wilton Candy Eyeballs
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with wax paper, parchment paper, or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
- Melt the white chocolate and coconut oil (or shortening) in a glass bowl in the microwave, for short 10-20 second bursts, until melted.
- Immediately dip pretzels, one at a time, in the bowl, using a fork to turn the pretzel over. Shake off excess chocolate from the pretzel with the fork. Be sure to shake the chocolate out of the bottom hole, so it looks like an open mouth — screaming. Place chocolate dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
- Immediately press two eyeballs into the top two holes for eyes — add a little extra chocolate if needed.
- Repeat with remaining pretzels. Work quickly. Heating the chocolate again only once, if needed.
- Allow pretzels to rest and harden. Place in freezer for 10 minutes to speed up the process. Peel pretzels off the baking sheet and enjoy!
Notes
Tips, Tricks & Creative Variations
Foolproof tips for spooky success
Even though Ghost Pretzels are simple, a few small tips make a big difference in the final look and taste. First, use a high-quality white chocolate or vanilla milk chips. Lower-quality chocolate can seize or melt unevenly, making dipping frustrating.
When melting, stir between each short burst in the microwave to avoid burning. If the chocolate seems too thick, don’t panic—a tiny bit more coconut oil or shortening will thin it just enough to coat smoothly. Just remember: a little goes a long way.
Dip the pretzels one at a time. It’s tempting to rush, but moving slowly ensures each one looks clean and ghostly. Gently tap the fork against the bowl after dipping to help the chocolate drip off evenly—and always clear the bottom hole to form that classic “screaming” mouth.
Press candy eyeballs into the still-wet chocolate right away, or they won’t stick. And be sure to chill them in the freezer or fridge so they set quickly and hold their shape.
Variations to make them your own
Want to switch things up? Use white almond bark or vanilla candy melts instead of white chocolate for a budget-friendly option. Feeling bold? Add a tiny dot of red gel under one eye for “zombie” ghost vibes or give your ghosts silly expressions with edible markers once the coating is dry.
For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed pretzels or mini chocolate chips on top before the chocolate sets. Want a gluten-free version? Just use gluten-free pretzels—everything else stays the same.
These pretzels also make adorable cupcake toppers, party favors, or lunchbox surprises. However you dress them up, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Storage, Gifting & Serving Ideas
How to store Ghost Pretzels
Once your Ghost Pretzels are fully set, they’re easy to store and hold up well for days. Simply transfer them to an airtight container and place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature if your kitchen is cool and dry—they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
If your kitchen tends to be warm, store them in the refrigerator to keep the white chocolate firm. Let them come to room temperature before serving so the coating softens just enough for the perfect bite.
These treats are surprisingly sturdy, so they travel well and are ideal for making ahead of parties or events.
Spooktacular ways to serve and gift
Looking for a fun party platter? Arrange the pretzels in a ghostly shape on a large tray, or mix them with Halloween popcorn and candy corn for a sweet-and-salty snack board.
If you’re creating treat bags for trick-or-treaters, classroom events, or neighbors, place 2–3 pretzels in small clear bags tied with black or orange ribbon. Add a cute tag that says “BOO Bites” or “Ghostly Goodies” for a memorable homemade gift.
You can also set out a bowl of Ghost Pretzels on your Halloween dessert table alongside cupcakes, candy bark, or other themed snacks. They’re eye-catching, festive, and offer a fun contrast to richer desserts.
Hosting a Halloween movie night? Serve the pretzels with hot cocoa or apple cider for a cozy sweet treat that disappears fast.
Whether you’re gifting them or saving them all for yourself, Ghost Pretzels are a quick, creative way to bring smiles (and maybe a few screams) to your Halloween celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Ghost Pretzels ahead of time?
Yes! Ghost Pretzels can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container with parchment between layers to keep them from sticking. They hold their shape well and are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or treat bags.
2. What type of pretzels work best for Ghost Pretzels?
Mini pretzels with a traditional twist shape work best. The top two holes are perfect for adding eyes, and the bottom hole creates that classic open “ghost mouth.” Look for brands like Snyder’s or Shultz for consistent sizing.
3. Can I use something other than candy eyeballs?
Absolutely. If you don’t have candy eyeballs, use mini chocolate chips or small dots of black icing. Just place them carefully while the white chocolate is still wet so they stick properly.
4. What’s the best way to melt white chocolate for dipping?
Use short bursts in the microwave—10 to 20 seconds at a time—stirring in between. Add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to thin the chocolate for smoother dipping. Avoid overheating, as white chocolate can seize easily.
Conclusion
When Halloween rolls around and you need a no-fuss treat that still brings all the festive fun, Ghost Pretzels are the answer. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you’ll have an entire tray of spooky, sweet snacks in under 30 minutes. No baking, no stress—just pure Halloween joy in every bite.
They’re perfect for parties, easy enough for kids to help with, and tasty enough that adults will sneak a few too. Whether you’re gifting them or saving them for yourself, these little ghosts are guaranteed to disappear fast.
