This treat combines the crunch of thick-cut potato chips with smooth, melted semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Chips are dipped halfway, allowing an even chocolate coating, then topped with nuts, flaky sea salt, or sprinkles while still wet. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate before serving to enjoy a satisfying balance of salty and sweet flavors.
Use sturdy kettle-cooked chips to avoid breakage and experiment with different chocolate types for varied sweetness. This easy-to-make snack is perfect for sharing or storing for a few days in an airtight container.
My college roommate used to keep a secret stash of potato chips in our dorm room, and one rainy Tuesday during finals week, I discovered her melting chocolate chips in the dorm microwave. She dipped a handful of those plain ridged chips into the chocolate and handed me one, insisting I try what she called the ultimate study snack.
Last summer I made these for my nephews birthday party, and the kids went absolutely wild for them. The parents were even more obsessed, standing around the plating dish pretending to be sophisticated while reaching for chip after chip.
Ingredients
- Thick cut potato chips: Kettle cooked or ridged chips hold up better during dipping and have that satisfying crunch that thin chips lack
- Semi sweet or dark chocolate: Chopping it into small pieces helps it melt evenly and prevents seizing
- Flaky sea salt: A finishing sprinkle over the chocolate amplifies the sweet salty balance
- Chopped toasted nuts: Almonds or peanuts add another layer of texture and make them feel extra special
Instructions
- Set up your workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and have all your toppings ready before you melt the chocolate
- Melt the chocolate:
- Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring constantly until completely smooth and glossy
- Dip the chips:
- Hold each chip and dip about halfway into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off for a clean edge
- Add toppings immediately:
- Sprinkle with nuts, salt, or sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet so everything sticks
- Let them set:
- Leave at room temperature for thirty minutes or refrigerate for fifteen minutes until the chocolate hardens
These have become my go to gift for neighbors and coworkers during the holidays. Last December I packed them in little cellophane bags tied with twine, and my neighbor texted me within an hour asking for the recipe.
Making Them Your Way
White chocolate creates an entirely different experience and pairs beautifully with crushed candy canes during winter. Milk chocolate works if you prefer something sweeter and less intense.
Storage Secrets
Store them in an airtight container between layers of wax paper to prevent sticking. They stay perfectly crisp at room temperature for three days, though they rarely last that long in my house.
Perfect Pairings
A glass of sparkling wine or dessert stout creates such a sophisticated tasting experience. My sister serves them alongside vanilla ice cream for an unexpected sundae topping.
- Set up a dipping station at parties so guests can customize their own chips
- Make extra because the first batch always disappears during testing
- Package them within twenty four hours for maximum freshness if gifting
Sometimes the simplest combinations are the most genius. These chocolate covered chips prove that a little creativity in the kitchen can turn basic snacks into something magical.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of potato chips work best?
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Thick-cut, sturdy kettle-cooked chips are ideal as they hold the chocolate coating without breaking easily.
- → How should the chocolate be melted?
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Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth and silky.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
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Yes, sprinkle toasted nuts, flaky sea salt, or colorful sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet for added texture and flavor.
- → How do I store these treats?
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to three days to maintain freshness and crispness.
- → What chocolate varieties can I use?
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Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works well; white or milk chocolate can also be used for a sweeter variation.