I still remember the first time I tried chocolate covered potato chips. I was at a family gathering when someone brought a tray of these crunchy, chocolate-dipped treats. At first, I hesitated—potato chips and chocolate? It seemed like an odd combination. But after one bite, I was hooked. The contrast between the crispy, salty chip and the smooth, rich chocolate was unlike anything I had ever tasted.
Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of mixing sweet and salty flavors. Whether it’s caramel and sea salt or peanut butter and honey, these unexpected pairings create an unforgettable experience. Chocolate covered potato chips are no exception. They blend two well-loved snacks into one irresistible bite, making them a favorite for parties, gifts, or simple indulgence. But where did they come from, and how can you make your own? Let’s dig in.
Table of Contents
The Origins of Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
It’s hard to say exactly when chocolate covered potato chips first appeared, but the idea likely started in America. People have been combining sweet and salty flavors for generations, but some believe this specific treat gained popularity in small-town candy shops.
Legend has it that chocolatiers experimented with dipping different snacks into chocolate, searching for the perfect balance of flavors. Someone must have thought, “Why not a potato chip?” And just like that, a masterpiece was born. By the mid-20th century, some chocolate shops, especially in the Midwest, were selling them as a specialty item.
Today, this snack has become more than just a novelty. Many major brands produce them, and they’ve gained a loyal following. You can find them in gourmet shops, online stores, and even in some grocery aisles. But if you want the freshest, most delicious version, the best option is to make them at home.
How to Make Homemade Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
Making chocolate covered potato chips at home is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 bag of sturdy potato chips (kettle-cooked works best)
- 1 cup of melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white)
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (optional, for a smoother dip)
- Toppings like crushed nuts or sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each potato chip halfway into the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
- Place the dipped chips on parchment paper and sprinkle with toppings if desired.
- Let them cool at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes until set.
- Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Making them at home means you can control the quality of ingredients and experiment with different flavors. Plus, they make for a fun and easy kitchen project.

Exploring Flavor Variations: Dark, Milk, and White Chocolate Coatings
One of the best things about chocolate covered potato chips is their versatility. The type of chocolate you choose can dramatically change the experience.
- Dark Chocolate: For a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the salty chip.
- Milk Chocolate: A creamy, smooth option that brings out the sweetness.
- White Chocolate: The sweetest choice, with a buttery, vanilla-like flavor.
You can also mix chocolates for a marbled effect or drizzle one type over another for added texture. If you enjoy experimenting, consider adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne for a bold twist.
The Best Types of Potato Chips for Chocolate Dipping
Not all potato chips work well for this treat. If they’re too thin, they’ll break. If they’re too greasy, the chocolate won’t stick. The best chips for dipping are:
- Kettle-Cooked Chips: Thicker and crunchier, they hold up well to chocolate.
- Ridged Chips: The extra texture helps catch more chocolate.
- Lightly Salted Chips: A balanced flavor without overpowering saltiness.
If you want something extra special, try homemade potato chips. Freshly fried or baked chips offer a crispiness that packaged ones can’t match.
Pairing Chocolate Covered Potato Chips with Other Treats
I love how chocolate covered potato chips can be enjoyed in so many ways. While they’re delicious on their own, pairing them with other treats can take their flavor to the next level.
- Ice Cream: The crunch of the chips adds a fun texture to creamy vanilla, chocolate, or caramel ice cream.
- Cheese: Believe it or not, the combination of chocolate, salt, and cheese creates an unexpected but delicious taste. A mild cheddar or creamy brie works best.
- Nuts and Dried Fruits: A handful of almonds, cashews, or dried cranberries alongside these chips makes for a sweet and salty snack mix.
- Hot Drinks: A warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate balances the richness of the chocolate coating, creating a cozy treat.
The beauty of this snack is that it fits into both casual and fancy settings. Whether you’re snacking alone or impressing guests at a gathering, there’s always a new way to enjoy them.

Where to Buy the Best Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
Sometimes, I don’t have time to make chocolate covered potato chips from scratch, so I look for the best store-bought options. Luckily, many brands sell high-quality versions of this treat.
- Local Candy Shops: Some of the best versions come from small businesses that hand-dip their chips in premium chocolate.
- Gourmet Chocolate Stores: Brands like Godiva and smaller artisanal chocolatiers often carry them as a specialty item.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and specialty snack stores make it easy to order fresh, high-quality chips with a variety of flavors.
- Grocery Stores: Some supermarkets stock them in the snack or candy aisle, especially around the holidays.
If you’re looking for a top-tier experience, I recommend checking reviews before buying. Some brands use higher-quality chocolate, while others focus on extra crispy chips. Finding the right balance makes all the difference.
Health Considerations: Indulging in Moderation
As much as I enjoy chocolate covered potato chips, I know that balance is key. Like most sweet and salty snacks, they’re best enjoyed in moderation.
- Calorie Content: Because they combine chocolate and fried chips, they can be high in calories. A small portion is enough to satisfy cravings.
- Sugar and Sodium: Too much of either can be unhealthy, so choosing lightly salted chips and dark chocolate can be a smarter option.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Making them at home lets you control ingredients, reducing sugar or using a healthier oil for dipping.
The good news is that enjoying this snack occasionally won’t ruin a healthy lifestyle. I like to treat myself every once in a while, especially when I pair it with fresh fruit or nuts for a more balanced treat.
Creative Gift Ideas Using Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
Whenever I need a unique gift, I turn to chocolate covered potato chips. They’re a fun alternative to traditional chocolates and cookies, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Holiday Gifts: A decorative tin filled with these chips makes a great Christmas or Eid present.
- Birthday Treats: Packaged in a fancy box with a handwritten note, they become a thoughtful, personalized gift.
- Party Favors: Mini bags of these chips work well as wedding or party favors that guests will actually enjoy.
- Customizable Options: Add a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of sea salt, or even edible gold flakes for a gourmet touch.
Since they’re easy to make in large batches, I often prepare them for celebrations. They always surprise and delight whoever receives them.

FAQs
Does Lay’s still make chocolate covered potato chips?
Lay’s previously released Wavy Milk Chocolate Covered Potato Chips, a limited-edition snack that quickly gained popularity. However, they are no longer widely available in stores. Occasionally, they reappear during the holiday season or through select online retailers. If you’re looking for a similar treat, some gourmet brands and local chocolate shops offer their own versions.
Do chocolate potato chips exist?
Yes, chocolate covered potato chips are a real and beloved snack. They combine the crispiness of potato chips with the smooth, rich texture of chocolate, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. While large snack companies have produced them in the past, many specialty brands and homemade recipes continue to keep this unique treat alive.
Does Trader Joe’s have chocolate covered potato chips?
Trader Joe’s has offered chocolate covered potato chips in the past, but they have since been discontinued. Instead, they now sell Snacky Clusters, which contain chocolate-coated potato chips, corn chip dippers, and pretzel nuggets. While not the same as pure chocolate-covered chips, they still deliver a satisfying mix of sweet and salty flavors.
What are the best potato chips to dip in chocolate?
For homemade chocolate covered potato chips, choosing the right chip is key. The best options include:
Kettle-cooked chips – Thick and sturdy, they hold up well when dipped in chocolate.
Ridged chips – The extra texture helps capture more chocolate for a richer bite.
Lightly salted chips – A subtle saltiness enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Lay’s Wavy Original and classic kettle chips are top choices for achieving the perfect crunch and coating.
Conclusion
When I first heard about chocolate covered potato chips, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But from the very first bite, I knew they were something special. The combination of crunchy, salty chips and smooth, sweet chocolate is a match made in snack heaven.
Whether you’re making them at home, buying them from a specialty store, or giving them as gifts, they always bring a little joy. The best part? They can be customized with different chocolates, toppings, and pairings to suit any taste.
If you haven’t tried them yet, now’s the time. You might just discover your new favorite treat.
Food for Thought & Your Plate! Explore More:
- Jalapeño Fritos Discontinued: 7 Pro Tips to Satisfy Your Cravings;
- Delicious Snow Cone Treats: 15 Fascinating Facts;
- Quesillo: 7 Important Secrets About The Venezuela’s Dessert.

Crispy Chocolate Covered Potato Chips
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Description
Sweet, salty, and irresistibly crunchy! These homemade chocolate covered potato chips are the ultimate snack or gift idea—easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ridged potato chips (Lay’s, Ruffles, or Kettle Chips)
- 1 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- ¼ tsp sea salt (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Dip the Chips: Using tongs or a fork, dip each potato chip halfway into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
- Set & Chill: Place the chocolate-covered chips on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Let Them Harden: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
- Enjoy! Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Try drizzling white chocolate over the chips for a gourmet touch.
- Experiment with different chip flavors like barbecue or salted vinegar!
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: 12
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Protein: 2
Keywords: Chocolate covered potato chips, sweet and salty snack, easy chocolate snack, homemade gift ideas, crunchy chocolate treats