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.