Name: Christmas Pretzel Hugs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 60 square pretzels (like Snyder’s Snaps); 60 Hershey’s Hugs, unwrapped; 60 red and green M&M’s

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The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors? Christmas Pretzel Hugs are an easy-to-make, festive snack that will please both kids and adults alike. These delicious bites are perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying at home while watching your favorite Christmas movies. Let’s dive into how to make this festive treat!

What Are Christmas Pretzel Hugs?

Christmas Pretzel Hugs are a delightful combination of pretzels, chocolate, and festive candies. The base is made from traditional square pretzels, topped with a chocolate hug (or kiss) and decorated with colorful M&M’s. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of Christmas Pretzel Hugs, gather the following ingredients:

Square Pretzels: These act as the base and add a perfect crunch.
Chocolate Hugs or Kisses: These sweet chocolates melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.

M&M’s: Use holiday-themed colors (red, green, white) to make them festive.
Optional: Sprinkles or sea salt for an extra touch.

How to Make Christmas Pretzel Hugs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will help melt the chocolate without burning it.

Arrange the Pretzels: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the square pretzels in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Add the Chocolate: Unwrap the chocolate hugs or kisses and place one on top of each pretzel.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolates are softened but not melted. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Top with M&M’s: Once the chocolates are soft, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Press an M&M onto each melted chocolate hug, allowing it to sink in slightly.
Cool: Let the pretzels cool at room temperature until the chocolate sets. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to speed up the process.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Christmas Pretzel Hugs are ready to be served! Place them in a festive bowl or package them up as gifts for friends and family.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Pretzel Hugs

Mix Up the Chocolates: Feel free to use a combination of hugs and kisses for a fun twist on flavor.
Add Sprinkles: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top for extra color and holiday cheer.
Store Properly: Keep your Pretzel Hugs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They also make great gifts when packaged in festive boxes or bags!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas Pretzel Hugs are incredibly versatile. Not only can you enjoy them at home, but they also make a wonderful addition to holiday cookie platters, classroom parties, and cookie exchanges. The combination of salty pretzels, creamy chocolate, and crunchy candies is irresistibly delicious. Plus, the kids will love helping to make them, making it a perfect family activity during the holidays.

Final Thoughts

This holiday season, bring a touch of sweetness and fun to your celebrations with Christmas Pretzel Hugs. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to enjoy a festive snack, these treats are a must-try!

So gather your ingredients, get the kids involved, and make some delicious Christmas Pretzel Hugs that will have everyone reaching for more. Happy Holidays!

Serving and Storage Tips for Christmas Pretzel Hugs

When it comes to enjoying your delicious Christmas Pretzel Hugs, proper serving and storage techniques will help maintain their freshness and flavor. Here are some helpful tips:

Serving Tips

Presentation: Arrange the Pretzel Hugs on a decorative plate or platter. You can also use festive holiday-themed containers or trays to enhance the holiday spirit.
Pair with Beverages: These sweet and salty treats pair wonderfully with hot cocoa, coffee, or even a festive punch. Consider setting up a hot cocoa bar alongside your Pretzel Hugs for a fun, interactive experience.

Gift Giving: Christmas Pretzel Hugs make great homemade gifts! Package them in clear treat bags tied with colorful ribbons, or place them in decorative boxes. Don’t forget to add a festive tag with a sweet note.
Buffet Style: If serving at a holiday party, consider a buffet-style setup where guests can help themselves. Provide small paper cups or candy dishes for easy serving.

Storage Tips

Airtight Container: To keep your Pretzel Hugs fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from becoming stale and keep the chocolate from melting due to moisture.

Cool, Dry Place: Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator if possible, as this can cause the chocolate to bloom (a white powdery appearance).
Shelf Life: When stored properly, Christmas Pretzel Hugs can last for up to two weeks. However, they are best enjoyed within the first week for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch in advance, you can freeze them! Place the Pretzel Hugs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

With these serving and storage tips, your Christmas Pretzel Hugs will remain delicious and festive throughout the holiday season. Enjoy sharing these treats with friends and family, and create joyful memories around the table!

Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes! While the traditional recipe calls for chocolate hugs or kisses, you can certainly experiment with different types of chocolate. White chocolate, dark chocolate, or even flavored chocolates (like mint or caramel) can add a unique twist to your Pretzel Hugs. Just keep in mind that melting times may vary depending on the chocolate used.
How can I customize my Christmas Pretzel Hugs?
There are many ways to customize your Pretzel Hugs! You can use different candies instead of M&M’s, such as festive sprinkles, chocolate-covered candies, or even chopped nuts. Additionally, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top for added decoration and flavor.

Can I make these Pretzel Hugs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Christmas Pretzel Hugs can be made several days in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to make them even earlier, consider freezing them for up to three months and thawing them when you’re ready to serve.
Are Christmas Pretzel Hugs suitable for gift-giving?
Yes! Christmas Pretzel Hugs make a wonderful homemade gift. You can package them in decorative treat bags or festive boxes, making them perfect for holiday parties, classroom treats, or gifts for friends and family. Just be sure to label them if they contain common allergens like nuts or gluten.