Holiday Treats

Sweet, salty, and super simple! These Holiday Treats made with chocolate pretzel rings, Hershey’s Hugs, and M&Ms are perfect for festive snacking. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging during the holiday season, these treats combine delightful flavors and an eye-catching presentation. With minimal effort required, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have these treats ready before your guests arrive.
• Festive Appeal: The bright red and green M&Ms make these perfect for any holiday celebration.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Sweet and salty flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, making them a go-to snack.
• Versatile Treats: You can easily customize these by using different types of chocolate or toppings.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated items—just a few pantry staples needed!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for consistent melting of the chocolate.

Ingredients

Sweet, salty, and super simple! These chocolate pretzel rings with Hershey’s Hugs and M&Ms are perfect for holiday snacking and are a festive treat everyone loves.

For the Treats

• 80 pretzel rings
• 80 Hershey’s Hugs
• 80 M&Ms (red and green)

How to Make Holiday Treats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) to prepare for baking the treats.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a cookie sheet or baking pan with parchment paper. Arrange the pretzels in a single layer on the sheet.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Hugs

Place one Hershey’s Hug on top of each pretzel. Make sure they sit securely on the pretzel base.

Step 4: Bake the Pretzels

Bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them until you see the chocolate starting to melt but not completely lose its shape.

Step 5: Add M&Ms

Quickly press an M&M into the center of each melted chocolate Hug. Ensure that the ‘m’ faces down for an appealing presentation.

Step 6: Cool Down

Transfer the cookie sheet to the fridge. Allow it to cool until the chocolates harden completely—this should take about 10-20 minutes.

With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Holiday Treats ready to share or enjoy yourself!

How to Serve Holiday Treats

These chocolate pretzel rings are not only delicious but also fun to serve at gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your holiday treats.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the chocolate pretzel rings on a colorful platter. This makes for an eye-catching display that will entice guests to indulge.

Gift Bags

• Package individual servings of holiday treats in clear bags tied with festive ribbons. These make wonderful gifts for friends and family during the festive season.

Dessert Table

• Include these treats on a dessert table alongside other holiday desserts. They add variety and color, making the table more inviting.

With Hot Beverages

• Serve the pretzel rings alongside hot cocoa or holiday-themed beverages. The sweet and salty combination pairs perfectly with warm drinks.

As Party Favors

• Consider placing these treats in small boxes as party favors for guests to take home. It’s a thoughtful gesture that keeps the celebration going.

How to Perfect Holiday Treats

Perfecting your holiday treats is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pretzels, chocolate, and M&Ms for optimal taste and texture.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; bake just until the chocolate starts to melt, usually 2-3 minutes.
• Press Gently: When adding M&Ms, press them gently into the melted chocolate to ensure they stick well.
• Cool Completely: Allow enough time for the chocolate to harden in the fridge before serving; this will help maintain their shape.
• Mix Colors: Use a mix of red and green M&Ms for a festive look that enhances your holiday presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Holiday Treats

These side dishes complement your holiday treats perfectly, creating a delightful spread.

1. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the chocolate pretzel rings.
2. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and grapes provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Veggie Tray: Crisp veggies with dip offer a crunchy counterpart to the sweet treats.
4. Nuts Variety: Roasted nuts add a savory element that pairs well with chocolate flavors.
5. Mini Cupcakes: These bite-sized desserts bring more sweetness and variety to your dessert table.
6. Holiday Cookies: Offer an assortment of cookies for guests who enjoy traditional sweet treats alongside your pretzels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making these delightful holiday treats, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overbaking the chocolate: Keeping the pretzels in the oven for too long can cause the chocolate to burn. Bake just until you see it melting, typically 2-3 minutes.
• Not using parchment paper: Skipping this step can lead to sticking and a messy cleanup. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Pressing M&Ms too hard: If you press the M&Ms too firmly into the chocolate, they might break or sink too deep. Gently press them in just enough to secure them.
• Using regular pretzels instead of rings: Using standard pretzels can change the treat’s texture and look. Stick with pretzel rings for that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
• Skipping cooling time: Trying to eat them right out of the oven can lead to melted chocolate chaos. Allow at least 10-20 minutes in the fridge for proper hardening.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your holiday treats in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Holiday Treats

• Place your holiday treats in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• These treats can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Holiday Treats

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F and warm them for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals. Be careful not to overheat as it can melt the chocolate too much.
• Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently just until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some variations of holiday treats?

You can customize these treats by using different types of chocolate or seasonal candies like peppermint M&Ms.

How do I make holiday treats gluten-free?

To make gluten-free holiday treats, use gluten-free pretzel rings available at most grocery stores.

Can I use regular M&Ms instead of holiday colors?

Absolutely! Regular M&Ms will work just fine if holiday colors aren’t available; they will still taste delicious.

How long do holiday treats last?

Homemade holiday treats stored properly can last up to a week in the fridge or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These chocolate pretzel rings are not only quick and easy to make but also offer a delightful combination of flavors that everyone loves. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite candies or toppings. So go ahead and try making these tasty holiday treats; they’re sure to become a festive favorite!