·      Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be where you lay the dipped pretzels to set.

·      Melting Candy Melts: Work with one color at a time.

·      Place ½ cup of candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power or on the defrost setting for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the candy melts are fully melted and smooth.

·      Dipping Pretzels: Dip one pretzel rod into the melted candy, tilting the bowl and using a spoon to help cover the pretzel evenly. Coat about half the length of the pretzel rod or as much as you like.

·      Gently shake off any excess candy melt before placing the pretzel rod on the parchment paper.

·      Adding Sprinkles: While the candy coating is still wet, sprinkle the patriotic sprinkles over the pretzel. You can sprinkle them by hand or roll the wet, candy-coated section of the pretzel rod in a bowl of sprinkles for fuller coverage.

·      Setting: Allow the candy melts to harden completely at room temperature, which should take about 15-30 minutes. For quicker setting, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.

·      Serving or Storing: Serve the pretzel rods once the candy melts have set. If not serving immediately, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the pretzels from becoming soft.