In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, and softened butter. Mix until you have a dough-like consistency. I learned the hard way that if the butter isn't softened, you'll end up with a clumpy mixture. Patience is key here; let the butter sit out until it's just right.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 teaspoon each. Press one ball between two pretzel snaps, gently but firmly enough to make a sandwich without the peanut butter squeezing out the sides. This step is all about balance; too much pressure and you'll break the pretzels, too little and your bites won't hold together.

Place the pretzel sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 20 minutes. This is crucial as it solidifies the peanut butter, ensuring it doesn't leak when dipped into the warm chocolate later on.

When you're ready to coat the bites in chocolate, place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl. Melt over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring constantly until smooth and glossy. I once tried melting chocolate directly in a pot and ended up with a grainy, burnt mess. The double boiler method is gentle and gives you control, preventing the chocolate from seizing.

Using a fork, dip each pretzel sandwich into the melted chocolate, turning to coat evenly. Let the excess chocolate drip off by tapping the fork on the edge of the bowl. This technique took me a few tries to master, but it's the secret to a smooth, even coating without a pool of chocolate at the base of each bite.

Place the chocolate-coated bites back onto the parchment paper. If you're using sea salt flakes, now is the time to sprinkle a few on top of each bite. The salt not only enhances the flavor but also adds a gourmet touch. I learned that if you wait too long, the salt won't stick to the chocolate as it sets.

Refrigerate the peanut butter pretzel bites for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate. This waiting period is non-negotiable; it ensures that the chocolate hardens with a snap, contrasting beautifully with the creamy peanut butter filling.