The holiday season inspires us to share treats that spark joy. If you’re searching for something festive, absolutely simple, and perfect for gifting, you’re in the right place! Christmas pretzels hugs are the ultimate 3-ingredient snack—bright, crunchy, and loaded with sweet and salty magic. Let’s discover how you can create this beloved treat for your winter celebrations.
Why You’ll Love Christmas pretzels hugs
These bites are a longtime favorite for the season. Here’s why they top our list:
- Effortless Prep: No fancy equipment or complicated steps—just a baking sheet and a bit of excitement!
- Great with Kids: Young chefs love placing the M&Ms and helping with assembly.
- Ideal for Gifts: Their colorful, bite-sized look makes them perfect for treat jars or bags.
- Extremely Versatile: Customize with different candies, nuts, or sprinkles for special occasions.
Looking for more festive treats? Try this Best Holiday Desserts guide for endless inspiration.
Ingredients for Christmas pretzels hugs
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 50 Hershey’s Hugs (or swap with Kisses or Rolos)
- 50 square-style pretzels (the “snap” shape keeps chocolate contained)
- 50 red and green M&Ms
Optional:
- Pecans or holiday sprinkles
- Candy cane Hershey’s Kisses
If you’re using these for gifts, note that a batch of 50 hugs usually fills about two eight-ounce jars—the perfect size for sharing.
How to Make Christmas pretzels hugs
Step 1: Prep
Line a cookie sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Assemble
Lay out pretzels in a single layer. Top each with one Hershey’s Hug.
Step 3: Bake
Set the oven to 320°F (160°C) and bake for 2-4 minutes. Watch closely: you want the chocolate soft, not melted.
Step 4: Finish
Quickly press an M&M into the center of each softened Hug while still warm.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Allow to set at room temperature for an hour or more—so everything firms up for mess-free packaging.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Don’t Over-Melt: After 2 minutes, test one. M&Ms should sink into the Hug easily.
- Even Baking: Rotate the pan if your oven heats unevenly.
- No-Stick Tips: Parchment/silicone mats work best, keeping your treat’s shapes intact.
- Microwave Option: No oven? Microwave in short increments, being VERY careful not to overheat.
- Year-Round Snacking: Switch up M&M colors for birthdays, game days, or spring parties.
Prefer a caramel twist or sandwich style? Try this sister recipe for Rolo Pretzels.
Festive Variations for Christmas pretzels hugs
- Add a second pretzel for a sandwich style and extra crunch.
- Top with pecans for a southern classic vibe.
- Use holiday sprinkles or colored sugar for even more color.
- Swap white-and-milk chocolate for seasonal-flavored Kisses.
For even more ideas, browse Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods for themed party snacks.
Packaging & Gift Ideas
Christmas pretzels hugs are beloved by teachers, coworkers, and friends! Here’s how to make them gift-ready:
- Jars: Fill flip-top or wide-mouth jars, add ribbon and a personalized tag.
- Bags: Place in clear cellophane with festive stickers.
- Printable Tags: Print holiday tags for professional presentation—find free downloads on many recipe blogs.
Common Questions from Readers
- Jar Size: 50 pretzels hugs fill about two 8-ounce jars.
- Freshness: Store in a cool, airtight container—they’ll last 1–2 weeks!
- No Oven Option: Microwave melts work perfectly.
- Nut-Free? These are naturally nut-free unless you add pecans.
Final Thoughts: Holiday Joy in Every Bite
Christmas pretzels hugs bring together everything we love about the holidays: quick prep, creative decorating, vibrant colors, and irresistible flavor. Add them to your seasonal traditions—they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a homemade gift!