The history of pretzels is long and mysterious, but it’s no mystery that these baked goods are a popular snack around the globe. Chocolate covered pretzels are just one tasty version of this treat.
Pretzels are a popular snack across the globe. German Laugenbrezeln, American hard pretzels, and Norwegian kringler are just a few variations of this ubiquitous baked good. One particular variant, the chocolate covered pretzel, is a sweet snack for any occasion. Chocolate covered pretzels make excellent gifts, but they can also be enjoyed as an everyday treat. Grab a handful of your favorite treats from Wockenfuss as we explore the origins of pretzels, the development of American hard pretzels, and the sweet/salty combination of chocolate covered pretzels.
A Baked Treat with European Origins … Probably
There are a few widely circulated origin stories for the soft pretzel. Some cite the creator as an Italian monk making treats for children, while others swear that they were created in a French monastery. One whimsical piece of German folklore credits a kidnapped baker for the invention; given an ultimatum by a local lord, the baker is tasked with making a new kind of bread or pastry that is better than anything the lord has ever tasted before. If the baker succeeds, he’s allowed to live. In response to this challenge (and a few kitchen mishaps), the baker creates the first pretzel. While the pretzel’s precise origins are hotly debated, it’s an undisputed fact that pretzels have become a beloved snack food in all kinds of places.
Hard Pretzels: an American Innovation
Pretzels found a strong foothold in America due largely to the influx of German and Swiss-German immigrants in the 1700s. The Pennsylvania Dutch popularized soft pretzels by creating pretzel bakeries throughout rural areas in central Pennsylvania, and the savory treat eventually made its way to large cities like Chicago, New York, and Pennsylvania. Like fudge, hard pretzels are an American invention: the first commercial producer of hard pretzels opened in 1850 in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Since then, factories and small-scale producers have dabbled in all kinds of variations, including chocolate covered pretzels.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels Blend Savory and Sweet
While there are all kinds of regional versions and modern trends, chocolate covered pretzels are the ultimate twist on the classic pretzel. Crisp, salty pretzels are enrobed by a thick coating of rich dark, milk, or white chocolate. This blend of sweet and salty is addictive and craveable, making chocolate covered pretzels from Wockenfuss a favorite treat for many. The next time you feel the need for a crispy, crunchy, chocolatey treat, reach for a bag of chocolate covered pretzels from Wockenfuss!
A Wide Selection of Delicious Treats from Wockenfuss Candies
Head to WockenfussCandies.com and browse our wide selection of chocolates and candies; we promise you won’t be disappointed! Wockenfuss Candies is one of the oldest candy makers in Baltimore. We opened our doors in 1915 and have proudly served the people of Baltimore ever since. If you have any questions about our wide selection of chocolates, please contact Wockenfuss Candies by calling 1-800-296-4414 or email info@Wockenfusscandies.com. When you’re not savoring our sweets, stay satisfied by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!