Preparation Steps

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of water.
• Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramels are melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
• Dip each pretzel twist halfway into the melted caramel, letting excess drip off.
• Place the caramel-dipped pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet.
• In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening (if using). Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
• Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-dipped pretzels. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for more decorative drizzle.
• Immediately sprinkle with Valentine's Day sprinkles, if desired, before the chocolate sets.
• Let the pretzel bites sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate and caramel are set. You can also refrigerate them for about 5-10 minutes to speed up the setting process.
• Once set, carefully remove the pretzel bites from the parchment paper.