Ingredients
This recipe makes approximately 40 Christmas Pretzel Hugs.
- 40 small square pretzels or mini pretzel twists
- 40 milk chocolate caramel-filled candies or chocolate-and-caramel squares designed for melting
- 40 red and green candy-coated chocolates, such as mini holiday candies
Optional Decorations
- Christmas sprinkles
- White chocolate melting wafers
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Red and green sanding sugar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 250°F.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Arrange the pretzels in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. Make sure the pretzels are flat and stable so the chocolate candies sit securely on top.
Step 2: Add the Chocolate Candies
Unwrap the chocolate candies and place one in the center of each pretzel.
Try to keep the candies centered so the melted chocolate spreads evenly over the pretzel.
If you’re using square pretzels, place the chocolate directly in the middle. If you’re using pretzel twists, choose the flattest side as the base.
Step 3: Warm the Chocolate
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for approximately 3–5 minutes.
Watch the chocolate carefully. It should become soft and glossy but should not completely melt or lose its shape.
The exact time depends on the type and size of chocolate candy, so check after 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Christmas Candies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Immediately place one red or green candy-coated chocolate in the center of each softened chocolate candy.
Gently press down just enough to spread the chocolate slightly over the pretzel and secure the decoration.
Don’t press too hard, or the chocolate may spread beyond the pretzel.
Step 5: Add Extra Decorations
If desired, sprinkle a little crushed peppermint or Christmas sprinkles over the softened chocolate.
You can also drizzle a little melted white chocolate over the finished pretzel hugs once the first layer has set.
Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set
Allow the pretzel hugs to cool at room temperature until the chocolate begins to firm.
For a faster setting time, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for approximately 15–20 minutes.
Once completely set, carefully remove the pretzel hugs from the parchment paper.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the finished Christmas Pretzel Hugs on a festive serving platter or place them in small paper candy cups.
Serve them at your holiday gathering, add them to a Christmas cookie tray, or package them as homemade gifts.
Enjoy the delicious combination of crunchy pretzels, creamy chocolate, and sweet holiday candies!
Notes
Use fresh pretzels: Fresh pretzels provide the best crunch. Stale pretzels can make the finished treats less enjoyable.
Choose suitable chocolate candies: Different chocolates soften at different temperatures. Start checking early and follow the candy manufacturer’s melting guidance when available.
Don’t overheat the chocolate: The chocolate should soften enough for the candy decoration to press into it. Heating too long can cause it to spread or become greasy.
Decorate immediately: Add the candy-coated chocolates while the chocolate is still soft so they stay securely in place.
Work in small batches: If you’re making a large quantity, prepare one tray at a time so the chocolate doesn’t cool before decorating.
Allow enough setting time: The chocolate should be completely firm before you package or stack the pretzel hugs.
Use parchment paper: This makes removing the finished treats easier and helps keep your baking sheet clean.