# Pretzel Broomstick Snacks > Cute, no-bake Halloween snacks made from candy-coated pretzel rods and crunchy noodle 'bristles.' Kid-friendly and quick to assemble—perfect for classroom parties, trick-or-treat bowls, or spooky snack platters. Canonical URL: https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/pretzel-broomstick-snacks ## Author Jake Woods https://www.topshelf.recipes/chef/jake-woods Published: September 2, 2026 Last Updated: September 2, 2026 ## About This Recipe Pretzel Broomstick Snacks are the kind of tiny theatrical treats that make a Halloween spread feel instantly festive without hours in the kitchen. The crunch of a thin salted pretzel rod paired with a glossy orange candy coating gives a sharp sweet-salty contrast, while the chow mein noodle “bristles” add a flaky, popcorn-like crisp that melts on the tongue. A dab of yellow sanding sugar or sprinkles on the tips elevates the look from homemade to party-ready, and the licorice tie adds a chewy counterpoint and a finished, broom-like silhouette that kids love to inspect before devouring. This version works because it balances speed and polish: candy melts provide a reliable, no-temper shine; a bit of vegetable shortening smooths the coating for cleaner drips; and using chow mein noodles (or crushed cornflakes) creates an airy texture that stays crunchy even after sitting on a platter. These are ideal for classroom parties, trick-or-treat bowls, or a whimsical addition to an adult cocktail table—easy to customize, quick to assemble, and designed so non-bakers can still produce picture-perfect results. ## Recipe Information - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 5 minutes - Total Time: 25 minutes - Servings: 12 - Difficulty: Easy - Category: Snacks ## Ingredients ### Prep pretzels and workspace - 24 pieces Thin pretzel rods (pretzel sticks) ### Melt the candy coating - 8 oz Orange candy melts (or orange candy coating wafers) - 2 tbsp Vegetable shortening (optional — thins candy melts for smoother dip) ### Dip and add bristles - 2 cups Chow mein noodles (crispy fried noodle sticks) or finely crushed cornflakes - 1/2 cup Yellow sanding sugar or fine orange/yellow sprinkles (optional) ### Tie the broom handles - 12 pieces Licorice laces or fruit roll-up strips (for tying broom bristles) ## Ingredient Guide ### Orange candy melts (or orange candy coating wafers) Small, colored confectionery wafers designed to be melted and used as a coating or dip for candies and treats; popular in cake- and candy-decorating rather than traditional cooking. They originate from the baking/candy-manufacturing world (brands like Wilton) and taste very sweet with a neutral, slightly waxy mouthfeel rather than a true chocolate flavor. They’re sold in craft stores, baking aisles, and online; good substitutes are colored almond bark, white chocolate tinted with oil-based coloring, or standard melting chocolate/candy coating wafers. ### Chow mein noodles (crispy fried noodle sticks) Thin, crunchy fried wheat noodles used in Chinese and Chinese‑American dishes as a crunchy topping or snack (often found in American Chinese takeout garnishes and some salad mixes). They’re bland and crispy with a lightly fried/oily note and provide texture more than flavor. Find them in the Asian aisle of supermarkets, Asian grocery stores, or online; if unavailable, crushed cornflakes, crispy rice cereal, or toasted vermicelli/crispy rice noodles make good substitutes. ### Licorice laces or fruit roll-up strips (for tying broom bristles) Licorice laces are long, thin chewy candy strands (often anise-flavored or fruit-flavored) used for decorating or tying in confectionery crafts; fruit roll-up strips are fruit-leather candy used similarly. Both come from the candy/snack aisle and taste sweet with either anise/licorice notes or concentrated fruit flavor and a chewy texture. You can find them in supermarkets, candy shops, and online; simple substitutes include other thin chewy candy strips, fruit leather cut into ribbons, or even thin strips of fondant or ribbon candy for decorative uses. ## Instructions ### 1. Prep pretzels and workspace Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper and lay out 24 pretzel rods in a single layer. Set the baking sheet nearby so you can work quickly once the candy is melted. ### 2. Melt the candy coating Place the orange candy melts and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between bursts, until smooth and pourable (about 1–2 minutes total). If you prefer a thinner dip, add a little more shortening by 1/2 teaspoon at a time. ### 3. Dip and add bristles Hold a pretzel rod and dip the top 1 to 1 1/2 inches into the melted candy, letting excess drip back into the bowl. Immediately roll or press the wet candy-coated end into the chow mein noodles (or crushed cornflakes) and sprinkle with yellow sanding sugar or sprinkles while the candy is still wet so the 'bristles' stick. ### 4. Tie the broom handles Cut each licorice lace in half if desired for shorter ties. Wrap a short piece snugly around the base of the noodle-covered area and tie or twist into a small knot to mimic the broom tie. Trim any excess licorice so it looks neat. ### 5. Set and serve Place the finished broomsticks on the prepared sheet and chill in the refrigerator for about 5–10 minutes until the candy sets. This recipe yields about 24 pretzel broomsticks; serve about 4 broomsticks per person. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated up to 1 week. ## Nutrition Estimated nutrition per serving (4 pretzel broomsticks): - Calories: 451 kcal - Protein: 1.7 g - Carbohydrates: 96 g - Fat: 6.8 g - Saturated Fat: 1.6 g - Trans Fat: 0 g - Fiber: 1.2 g - Sugar: 49.4 g - Added Sugars: 0 g - Cholesterol: 0 mg - Sodium: 463 mg - Potassium: 350 mg - Calcium: 47 mg - Iron: 1.7 mg - Vitamin D: 0 mcg ## Tips ### Control your dip depth Dip only 1–1½ inches of the pretzel so the candy-to-pretzel ratio mimics a broom and keeps the handle easy to hold without sticky fingers. ### Avoid overheating melts Heat candy melts in short bursts and stir between intervals to prevent seizing; if grainy, add 1/2 teaspoon of shortening and reheat briefly to smooth. ### Press bristles gently After dipping, press the chow mein noodles into the candy with light, even pressure to avoid breaking the pretzel and to get full coverage. ### Work in batches Prepare a shallow bowl of bristles and a small plate for sprinkles so you can dip, roll, and decorate a few pretzels at a time before the coating sets. ### Neat licorice ties Stretch licorice slightly before wrapping to make a tidier knot and trim excess with kitchen scissors for a polished look. ## Variations and Substitutions ### Gluten-free swap Use gluten-free pretzel sticks and crushed gluten-free rice cereal instead of chow mein to keep the snack suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. ### Vegan/dairy-free option Choose vegan candy melts made from carnauba wax or cocoa butter and a plant-based shortening; confirm licorice is gelatin-free or use fruit leather strips. ### Spicy-sweet twist Stir a pinch of cayenne or smoked chili powder into the melted candy for an adult-friendly heat that contrasts nicely with the sweet coating. ### Chocolatey broomsticks Use dark or milk chocolate melts instead of orange and swap yellow sugar for orange sanding sugar or edible gold dust for a richer flavor profile. ## Notes These Pretzel Broomstick Snacks are fast to make, decorate, and kid-approved—great for last-minute Halloween treats. They're easy to customize (color, sprinkles, ties) and store well for a party spread. ### Storage and Make-Ahead Store finished broomsticks in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 48 hours to preserve crispness; layer with parchment to prevent sticking. For longer storage up to a week, refrigerate but bring to room temperature before serving to avoid a chewy coating. Avoid sealing while the candy is still tacky, as trapped moisture will soften the chow mein bristles. ### Serving Suggestions Arrange broomsticks upright in a shallow glass jar or lay them fanned on a platter with other Halloween bites like candy corn, caramel apples, or mini chocolate pumpkins for a playful spread. For drinks, pair with a fizzy citrus punch or a warm apple cider—orange-coated brooms complement both bright and spiced beverages. Add small name tags or toothpick flags to make them classroom-safe individual portions. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Can I use real chocolate instead of candy melts? Yes, tempered chocolate or carefully melted compound/chocolate works; keep in mind real chocolate is thinner and sets differently, so it may require chilling to firm up and can be more prone to bloom at room temperature. ### How do I keep the chow mein noodles from getting soggy? Ensure the candy coating is thick enough to encapsulate the noodles quickly—work in small batches and chill finished pieces briefly to set the coating; store in an airtight container at room temperature to avoid moisture exposure. ### What can I use instead of licorice for the ties? Thin fruit leather strips, narrow ribbons of edible wafer paper, or a thin strand of melted chocolate piped and hardened can substitute if licorice isn’t available or desired. ### Can I assemble these ahead of time for a party? You can make them a day in advance and store them in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature; avoid refrigerating for extended periods unless necessary, as condensation can soften the bristles. ### Are these safe for small children? They’re a fun treat, but the pretzel rods and licorice pose choking risks for very young children—supervise toddlers and consider breaking broomsticks into smaller pieces for kids under five. ## Related Recipes and Guides - [South Chicago Packing 100% Pure Tallow Popcorn with Browned Butter and Chili](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/south-chicago-tallow-popcorn-browned-butter-chili) - [Charred Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/charred-caramel-apple-pretzel-bites) - [Mike's Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Goat Cheese and Arugula](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/mikes-hot-honey-pepperoni-pizza-goat-cheese-arugula) - [Grilled Flatbread Crostini with Whipped Feta, Charred Cherry Tomatoes & Basil Oil](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/grilled-flatbread-crostini-whipped-feta-charred-cherry-tomatoes-basil-oil) - [Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake Bites](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/fresh-strawberry-cheesecake-bites) - [Apple-Berry Baked Oatmeal with Honey and Cinnamon](https://www.topshelf.recipes/recipes/apple-berry-baked-oatmeal-honey-cinnamon) - [No-Bake Funny Halloween Treats: 15 Quick Recipes](https://www.topshelf.recipes/articles/no-bake-funny-halloween-treats-15-quick-recipes) - [DIY Edible Monster Eyes Candy](https://www.topshelf.recipes/articles/diy-edible-monster-eyes-candy) - [Nutrition for Youth Athletes](https://www.topshelf.recipes/articles/nutrition-for-youth-athletes)