Kitchen Divas

  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Work With Us
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Work With Us
  • Subscribe
    • Bloglovin
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Contact
    • Work With Us
    • Subscribe
    • Bloglovin
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Dessert Recipes

    Take 5 Candy Bites 

    Published: Feb 9, 2025 · Modified: Apr 21, 2025 by Karin and Ken · This post may contain affiliate links. 6 Comments

    Share34
    Pin351
    Post
    Email
    Share
    388Shares
    385Shares
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    If you love candy, you have to try these Take 5 Candy Bites. They are the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Made with the same ingredients as the classic candy bar, they somehow taste even better from scratch. They’re melt-in-your-mouth delicious and easy enough to make anytime a craving strikes—no special occasion needed!

    Take 5 candy bites in a white bowl with one broken in half on the top to show the inside.
    Jump to:
    • Why You’ll Love This Take 5 Candy Recipe
    • Ingredients
    • Variations
    • How to Make Take 5 Candy Bites
    • Recipe Tips
    • Storage Directions 
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Recipe FAQs
    • More Delicious Easy Dessert Recipes
    • Homemade Take 5 Bites

    The peanut butter and caramel make the perfect filling for these little pretzel sandwiches enrobed in delicious melted chocolate. Each bite is well balanced, chewy, and has a little crunch!

    If you like pretzel treat recipes, you will love Butter Toffee Pretzels, Muddy Buddy Pretzels, Thin Mint Pretzels and No Bake Pretzel Cookies.

    Why You’ll Love This Take 5 Candy Recipe

    • It’s an easy copycat recipe: This is a simple Take Five bar recipe that tastes just like the store-bought version, and doesn’t take much time to make.
    • It’s customizable: It’s easy to switch up the recipe to make it your own. Feel free to experiment using your favorite ingredients.
    • It’s great to prepare ahead: I love that this recipe can be prepared in advance. It sets well and can sit in an airtight container for a day or two before serving.

    Ingredients

    Below are all of the components to create your own Take 5 candy bars at home. They are all baking items except for the pretzels. You might even have some of them in your kitchen already!

    Ingredients for making Take 5 candy bites arranged on a marble surface.
    • Pretzel snaps: I like to use pretzel snaps because their shape helps to hold the filling best. Plus, it’s what you’d find in a store-bought Take 5 candy bar.
    • Peanut butter: Chunky or crunchy peanut butter is great for this because it adds texture and is thicker than creamy peanut butter.
    • Powdered sugar: This adds a little sweetness to balance the salt from the other ingredients, while also further thickening the peanut butter.
    • Caramel squares: I like to use the squares because they are the perfect size for the pretzel snaps. I use Kraft but another brand like Werther’s Original is great, too.
    • Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are my go-to for balance, but milk or dark chocolate would be great as well. 
    • Vegetable oil: To make the pretzel sandwiches easier to dip, I add a little vegetable oil to the melted chocolate. It thins the chocolate and makes it glossy. Coconut oil or shortening are great alternatives in a pinch.

    See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

    Variations

    • Almond butter: Try this recipe with almond butter instead of peanut butter. This is great if you have a peanut allergy or if you don’t enjoy peanuts.
    • Add nuts: Place chopped hazelnuts or pecans into the middle of the pretzel sandwiches for a crunchy texture.
    • White chocolate: Coat the candies in melted white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a rich twist.

    How to Make Take 5 Candy Bites

    Here are the instructions on how to make Take Five candy bites. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 250°F.

    A hand holding a glass bowl of a peanut butter and powdered sugar mixture over pretzels on a parchment-lined baking tray

    Step 1: Make the peanut butter mixture and prep pretzels. Combine the peanut butter and powdered sugar in a medium bowl, mix until thick and creamy. Lay half of the pretzel snaps onto one of the prepared baking sheets.

    Pretzel snaps on a parchment-lined baking tray topped with a peanut butter-powered sugar mixture.

    Step 2: Spread it on the pretzels. Scoop about a teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture onto each pretzel and spread it evenly. Pop them into the freezer for about 30 minutes while you work on the caramel side. 

    Caramel squares on top of pretzel snaps on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    Step 3: Lay out the remaining pretzels and add caramel. Arrange the remaining pretzel snaps on the second prepared baking sheet. Place a caramel square onto each pretzel and place in the oven for about 10 minutes. You just want to soften the caramels, not melt them!

    Pretzel snaps sandwiches with peanut butter and caramel in the middle arranged on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    Step 4: Assemble sandwiches. Grab your chilled peanut butter pretzels from the freezer. Gently press one onto each caramel pretzel to create a sandwich. Put them back in the freezer to firm up while you prepare the chocolate.

    A hand holding a fork with a peanut butter and caramel pretzel snap sandwich over a bowl of melted chocolate.

    Step 5: Melt chocolate and dip. Melt the chocolate in the microwave until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Dip each bite into the melted chocolate with a fork. Give it a gentle tap on the bowl's side to allow any excess chocolate to drip off.

    Chocolate dipped peanut butter and caramel pretzel snap sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    Step 6: Drizzle and set. Spoon or drizzle extra melted chocolate onto the pretzel sandwiches to create a cute design. Pop them back into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so the chocolate can set. Let them sit on the counter for a few minutes before you serve!

    Recipe Tips

    • Work quickly: You don’t want the chocolate to seize or harden, so dip the pretzels fast to ensure they’re all coated.
    • Allow the caramel to cool slightly: Don’t burn yourself! Allow the caramels to cool a little bit before handling them. They will stay soft for a few minutes.
    • Chill each layer thoroughly: Chill each layer thoroughly to ensure everything holds together once assembled.

    If you love homemade candy bar recipes, you may also enjoy these Almond Joy Bites.

    Two halves of a Take 5 bar stacked on top of each other showing the inside with more candies in the background.

    Storage Directions 

    • Storing: Store these Take 5 bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Put them in a freezer bag and freeze them for up to 3 months.
    • Make Ahead: You can prepare all or a few of the layers in advance to make serving easier. I love to do this if I’m planning to bring them to a party.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Use these Take Five bars as a topping for a scoop of banana boat ice cream. They would also work great as decorations for a drumstick cake.
    • These are also great for adding texture to pumpkin mousse pie or old fashioned chocolate pie.
    • For extra indulgence, dip a Take Five bar in a dessert dip like this sweet and creamy Oreo dip.
    Close-up of homemade take 5 candies on a white plate.

    Recipe FAQs

    Can I store these Take Five candy bars in the refrigerator?

    Keeping them in the refrigerator will make the caramel inside harden. I prefer storing them at room temperature, but if you must keep them in the fridge, let them sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes before you eat them.

    Why are my candies melting?

    If they’re stored in a warm place, the chocolate might melt. Be sure to keep your Take 5 bars in a cool, dry spot.

    Can I use homemade caramel?

    You can, but I like to use the squares to ensure the caramel doesn’t leak out when I form the candy bites. Allow the homemade caramel to completely cool and thicken after you add it to the pretzels, and it should work well.

    Two open candy halves sitting on more candies in a white bowl.

    More Delicious Easy Dessert Recipes

    • A pile of butter toffee on plate.
      Crunchy Butter Toffee
    • Golden crisp marshmallow cereal bars stacked together on a plate.
      Golden Crisp Marshmallow Cereal Bars
    • Close-up of a stack of Reese's Stuffed Oreos, with the top one bitten to reveal layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and a white filling.
      Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Oreos 
    • A child holding an M&M Rice Krispie Treats in the air.
      M&M Rice Krispie Treats

    If you try this recipe and love it please leave a star rating in the recipe card below or even better, drop a review in the comment section, I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to follow along with me on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for more easy recipes!

    A white bowl filled with Take 5 candy bites and one on the top opened up to show the inside.

    Homemade Take 5 Bites

    Karin and Ken
    This homemade Take 5 Candy Bites recipe is easy to make but hard to share! They are the best blend of sweet and salty flavors with a chewy and crunchy texture.
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 10 minutes mins
    Chilling Time 1 hour hr
    Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 10 Servings
    Calories 558 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 60 pretzel snaps
    • ¾ cup chunky peanut butter
    • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
    • 30 individually wrapped caramel squares ( I use Kraft classic caramels)
    • 2 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions
     

    • Lay out half of the pretzel snaps onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    • Combine crunchy peanut butter with powdered sugar, then spread 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture onto each pretzel snap, and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
    • Preheat your oven to 250°F and lay out the other half of the pretzel snaps on another baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    • Place one caramel square on top of each pretzel snap, then bake for 10 minutes to soften the caramels.
    • Immediately press the chilled peanut butter pretzels on top of each softened caramel pretzel to create mini sandwiches, then return to the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up again.
    • In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in-between, until melted and smooth.
    • Coat each pretzel sandwich in the melted chocolate, let any excess chocolate run off, then place on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    • Optionally drizzle the tops with any leftover melted chocolate, then place in the fridge to set the chocolate (about 30 minutes).
    • Return to room temperature to soften the caramels before enjoying!

    Notes

    • If you store these candies in the refrigerator, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften the caramels.
    • Ensure that you dip the pretzel sandwiches quickly, so the melted chocolate doesn’t cool and seize before you’re finished.
    • Use vegetable oil, coconut oil, or even shortening to keep your melted chocolate thin and glossy so it’s easier to dip.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 558kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 9gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 246mgPotassium: 477mgFiber: 5gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 35IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg
    Keyword homemade take 5 candy, take 5 candy bites
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    This post was originally published December 2017. It's been updated with a new recipe, images, and content.

    Share34
    Pin351
    Post
    Email
    Share
    388Shares
    385Shares

    More Dessert Recipes

    • Rhubarb dump cake topped with whipped cream in a small blue bowl.
      Rhubarb Dump Cake
    • A slice of jello poke cake being served.
      Jello Poke Cake
    • Cheesecake trifle with layers of cake, berries and whipped topping.
      Cheesecake Trifle (Red, White & Blue)
    • A slice of red, white, and blue cheesecake on a stack of white plates.
      Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake

    Comments

    1. Candy says

      February 14, 2025 at 9:08 pm

      5 stars
      I have never tried a take 5. Your pictures looked so good I just had to and I’m so glad I did. Absolutely wonderful and so addictive I will definitely be making them again lol My grandchildren are going to love these. I imagine most will. Thank you for sharing another terrific recipe I’m loving your site. 💕

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 15, 2025 at 8:50 am

        I could not agree with you more. All the best. Karin

    2. Sandy says

      February 13, 2025 at 7:52 am

      5 stars
      These are so good. Too good. So hard to stop munching on them. Thank you for my new favorite treat! ❤️

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 13, 2025 at 8:11 am

        We love them too. Enjoy your day. Karin

    3. Cynthia Green says

      December 11, 2017 at 4:47 pm

      I tried these today and they are amazing!! I am known to not cook or bake-but these were so easy!! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        December 11, 2017 at 4:58 pm

        You are welcome! I love how easy they are! I always hide some in the freezer to put out when I need them! They freeze beautifully. Glad you loved them. I have trouble stopping at only one! Thank you so much for letting me know. You made my day. Take care and all the best. Karin

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating





    Welcome!

    We are the kitchen divas: Karin and my partner in life, Ken.

    We have been attached at the heart and hip since the first day we met, and we love to create new dishes to keep things interesting. Variety is definitely the spice of life!

    More about us

    Most Popular July 4th Recipes!

    • A slice of red, white, and blue cheesecake on a stack of white plates.
      Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake
    • 4th of July candy chocolate bark leaned up against other chocolate bark.
      4th of July Chocolate Bark
    • A bowl of cheesecake fruit salad with a wooden spoon.
      Cheesecake Fruit Salad
    • A slice of red white and blue cake being held up by a metal spatula.
      Red, White, and Blue Cake

    More Red, White and Blue Desserts ➡️

    Summer Favorites

    • A slice of strawberry charlotte cake on a plate topped with fresh strawberries.
      Strawberry Charlotte
    • A slice of Oreo delight on a white plate garnished with an Oreo cookie.
      No-Bake Oreo Delight
    • A slice of Funfetti ice cream cake on a blue plate.
      Funfetti Ice Cream Cake for Birthdays & More
    • A stack of three frozen s'mores bars on top of each other.
      Frozen S’mores

    More Sweet Treats ➡️

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign up for emails and what's new!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Us

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Kitchen Divas All Rights Reserved