If you’re looking for an irresistibly sweet and salty treat that’s as charming as it is simple, the Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine crispy, salty square pretzels topped with creamy Hershey’s Hugs chocolates and crowned with colorful, crunchy M&M’s. This little bite of joy is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just whenever you need a quick, delightful snack. The combo of textures and flavors is addictively good, and the best part? It takes just minutes to pull together, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen newbies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture you’ll love. These basic components come together to make a snack that’s both visually festive and deliciously satisfying.
- Square pretzels: Use regular square pretzels because their flat surface holds the chocolate perfectly without sliding off.
- Hershey’s Hugs chocolates: These are the creamy heart of the snack, melting just enough to embrace the pretzel while maintaining their shape.
- Milk Chocolate M&M’s (holiday colors suggested): These add a fun pop of color and a little crunch, topping off the chocolate in a way that’s truly delightful.
How to Make Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pretzels
Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Arrange your square pretzels in a single layer—each one will be a base for your chocolate surprise.
Step 2: Add the Hershey’s Hugs and Bake
Unwrap each Hershey’s Hug and place it carefully on top of each pretzel. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 4 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for the chocolate to become shiny and soft without completely melting down. This gentle warming makes the chocolates perfect for the next step.
Step 3: Press the M&M’s Into the Chocolate
Once out of the oven, quickly but gently press one Milk Chocolate M&M into the center of each warm Hershey’s Hug. Press just enough to spread the chocolate around it, creating a beautiful marbled swirl effect that’s both tasty and impressive.
Step 4: Let Them Set
Transfer your tray to the freezer or refrigerator to let the chocolate firm up, which usually takes about 5 to 15 minutes. This step gives them that satisfying snap when you bite in.
How to Serve Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some edible glitter or coarse sea salt on top after pressing in the M&M’s, just before chilling. This adds a little sparkle or a subtle salt enhancement that brings out the chocolate’s richness even more.
Side Dishes
Pair these Pretzel M&M Hugs with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of cold milk. Their sweet-salty crunch complements drinks perfectly and makes for an excellent party platter alongside fresh fruit or simple cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these colorful treats on a festive platter in the shape of a wreath or a holiday tree. Or package them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons for sweet homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Pretzel M&M Hugs in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. They stay fresh and crisp for about a week, ready to enjoy whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to make them in advance, these treats freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months—just thaw them before serving.
Reheating
Because they’re best enjoyed with that perfect snap, avoid reheating them in the microwave. Instead, bring them to room temperature slowly to maintain their texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pretzels?
For the best results, stick with flat square pretzels as they provide a sturdy base that holds the chocolate well. Round pretzels tend to let the chocolate slide off.
What if I don’t have Hershey’s Hugs chocolates?
You can experiment with other chocolate candy melts or Hershey’s Kisses, but the unique flavor and melting properties of Hugs create the perfect texture and taste for this recipe.
Can I use other M&M colors?
Absolutely! Choose any M&M colors you like to match the season, celebration, or your personal preference. The red and green holiday colors are just one festive suggestion.
Is this recipe kid-friendly to make?
Definitely! Kids will enjoy assembling these treats, especially pressing the M&M’s onto the warm chocolate. Just supervise the oven step carefully.
How long should I bake the Pretzel M&M Hugs?
Four to five minutes at 200 degrees is ideal. You want the chocolate soft and shiny, not fully melted, so it maintains a nice shape around the M&M.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a snack that’s simple, festive, and downright delicious, the Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe is a must-try. Its joyful combination of salty crunch and melty chocolate sweetness always brings smiles and makes any gathering feel extra special. Give it a go and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite treat!
Print
Pretzel M&M Hugs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 70 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pretzel M&M Hugs are a delightful and festive treat combining salty pretzels with creamy Hershey’s Hugs chocolates and colorful Milk Chocolate M&M’s. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for holiday parties or anytime you crave a sweet and salty indulgence. Easy to make with just three main ingredients and a little oven time, they offer a fun and visually appealing way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Pretzels
- 70 square pretzels (do NOT use butter snaps)
Chocolate
- 70 Hershey’s Hugs chocolates (unwrapped, nearly 1 full 12 oz package)
- 70 Milk Chocolate M&M’s (preferably from red and green Christmas package)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a cookie sheet with a Silpat mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange 70 square pretzels in a single layer on the lined cookie sheet.
- Add Hershey’s Hugs: Place one unwrapped Hershey’s Hugs chocolate on top of each pretzel, evenly spaced for easy baking.
- Bake: Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 4 to 5 minutes. Watch the chocolates closely; they should become shiny and soft but must not melt completely or lose their shape.
- Top with M&M’s: Remove the cookie sheet from the oven carefully. Immediately place one Milk Chocolate M&M in the center of each softened Hug chocolate. Gently press down on the M&M so it spreads the Hug chocolate slightly, creating a smooth surface.
- Set the Chocolate: Transfer the pretzel treats to the freezer or refrigerator and let them sit for 5 to 15 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
- Store: Once set, store the Pretzel M&M Hugs in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Notes
- Do not use butter snap pretzels, as they lack the structural integrity needed for this treat.
- Watch the chocolates carefully while baking to avoid melting them completely; they should simply soften and become shiny.
- For a festive look, use seasonal colored M&M’s during holidays.
- These treats can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several days or refrigerated to prolong freshness.
- Feel free to experiment with different colored or flavored M&M’s for customization.
