There are so many occasions in our lives that we want to bring a little gift to our family and friends. It could be for a Shalom Zachor, a L’chaim, a Refuah Shleima or even a Kiddush.

These meichels are perfect for that. If you are using them for a Shalom Zachor, just use the blue chocolates. If you are using them for a girl’s kiddush, use the pink chocolates. Just wrap them up in a beautiful box and your gift will be well-received. The recipe below makes about 80 pieces.

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup (1 stick) margarine, softened

3 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

1 lb bag square shaped pretzels

Assorted candy melts:

1/2 package white chocolate candy melts

1/2 package chocolate candy melts

1/2 cup pink candy melts

3 tsp shortening, divided

In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, margarine, vanilla, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Roll into 1/2 tsp balls and place on a pretzel; top with second pretzel and place on waxed paper-lined cookie sheet. Chill in freezer until firm, about 20 minutes

Melt candy melts, one color at a time, in the microwave per directions on package, adding 1 tsp shortening with each color (30 sec intervals, stirring in between). Using a fork, gently dip the pretzel bite into the candy coating rotating until covered. Once covered remove and softly tap/shake until the excess chocolate falls off. Place back on wax paper to dry.

To decorate with drizzled chocolate, place excess melted chocolate in a sandwich bag. Using scissors, cut the very tip off the sandwich bag. The smaller your cut, the smaller the drizzle. Use the sandwich bag to pipe the chocolate back and forth over the pretzel bite until you reach the desired look.

It’s as simple as that.

Feel free to contact me with your favorite recipes. Just email Heimishhousehold_gmail.com

Gail Hochman is a resident of Bergen County, NJ, has been married for 35 years and has many, many grandchildren.

By Gail Hochman