Save Sweet salty and colorful these Holiday Pretzel Hugs are my go-to for last-minute gatherings or festive snack platters. You end up with that irresistible sweet and salty crunch that keeps everyone reaching for one more. A tray of these always disappears before the party is even halfway done and nobody ever guesses how ridiculously easy they are to make.
The first time I made these I had little helpers crowding the kitchen and the excitement was contagious. Making them together has since become a winter tradition and we all look forward to dressing them up in new colors every year.
Ingredients
- Mini pretzel twists: Choose ones that look whole and sturdy because they hold up best and make every bite crunchy
- Hershey's Hugs or milk chocolate kisses: Unwrap carefully so the top stays smooth and pretty Look for fresh shiny Hugs for that perfect melt
- Candy-coated chocolate pieces like M&M's in festive colors: For visually fun and tasty bites pick bright colors and check that shells are not cracked
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper so the pretzel hugs lift right off and cleanup is a breeze
- Layer the Pretzels:
- Arrange all the mini pretzel twists in a single layer with a little space between each so the chocolates melt evenly
- Top with Chocolates:
- Place one Hershey's Hug or milk chocolate kiss in the center of every pretzel Try to keep the chocolate upright for the best finished look
- Melt in the Oven:
- Slide the tray into your preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 to 5 minutes Watch closely The chocolates should look glossy and soft but still hold their shape
- Add the Candy Topping:
- Right after removing from the oven quickly press one candy-coated chocolate piece gently into the center of each hug Do this while the chocolate is still warm for perfect sticking
- Cool and Set:
- Let the pretzel hugs cool completely on the baking sheet at room temperature If you are in a hurry place the tray in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes until set
- Store for Freshness:
- Once the chocolate is firm store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp and fresh for days
Save My absolute favorite part is switching up the chocolate base sometimes I use caramel kisses or dark chocolate ones to shake things up and it always feels like a new treat. One Christmas Eve my niece insisted on sorting the candies by color before pressing them onto the chocolates and now sorting colors is half the fun whenever we make them together.
Storage Tips
Pretzel hugs should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration for long periods because pretzels can soften. For holiday prep I often make batches two or three days ahead to save time.
Ingredient Substitutions
Switch out the standard mini pretzels for gluten-free pretzel twists if needed. Use dark chocolate kisses or caramel-filled ones for a deeper flavor. For a nutty variation you can gently press a roasted pecan half into each melted chocolate instead of using candy pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these on party trays sandwiched between other cookies fudge and homemade candies. For gift-giving I pack them in decorative tins with colorful tissue or cellophane bags for an eye-catching edible gift.
Cultural and Historical Fun
The combination of pretzels and chocolate is believed to have roots in European sweet shops where salty and sweet were first paired for snacks. Adding a candy topper is a clever American twist that instantly brightens up holiday platters and makes them kid-friendly.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use orange and brown M&M's for Halloween Pair green and red candies for classic Christmas flair Pick pink and red for Valentine's Day surprise
Save Treat trays of Holiday Pretzel Hugs like crowd-pleasers they'll vanish fast. Mix up colors and chocolate bases for endless festive fun.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to substitute dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses for added flavor and variety.
- → How long do pretzel hugs stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can stay fresh for up to one week.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, provided you use vegetarian-friendly chocolate and candy, these treats are vegetarian.
- → Can I make them in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare ahead, cool completely, and store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
- → How do I make them nut-free?
Use nut-free chocolate and candies, and check ingredient labels to ensure safety for nut allergies.
- → Can I customize for different holidays?
Yes! Select candy colors to match your celebration—red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, etc.