Why Make This Recipe
Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats are the perfect combination of sweet and salty. These delightful snacks bring together crunchy pretzels, melty chocolate, and colorful candies for a fun and festive treat. Whether for holidays, gatherings, or just a simple dessert, this recipe is sure to impress everyone.
Making these treats is super easy, and the best part is that you only need a few ingredients. Kids and adults alike will love helping to make and enjoy these little bites of happiness.
Equipment Needed for Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
To make Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you should gather before starting:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
- Oven mitts
- Measuring cups
- Silicone spatula (optional)
- Large bowl (optional, if you need to mix)
What You Need to Make Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
- 75 square-shaped pretzels (aka snaps)
- 75 Hershey’s Hugs (amount from 1 package)
- 75 Holiday M&Ms
How to Cook Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe Step by Step
To begin, preheat your oven to 200°F. This low temperature will allow your chocolate to soften without melting completely. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup later.
Once your baking sheet is ready, arrange a single layer of pretzels on it. Make sure to leave a little space between each pretzel for even cooking. After that, take your unwrapped Hershey’s Hugs and place one on top of each pretzel. The hugs will provide a creamy chocolatey center for your treats.
Carefully place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 4-5 minutes. You will know they are ready when the hugs become shiny and soft, but still maintain their shape. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
After removing the baking sheet from the oven, it’s time to add the M&Ms. While the hugs are still warm and soft, press an M&M gently into the center of each one. The warmth will help the chocolate spread, creating an even more delightful treat.
Once all the M&Ms are in place, swift action is required. Place the tray into the refrigerator or freezer for about 5-10 minutes to cool and set the chocolate properly. When you’re ready, carefully remove the treats from the lined baking sheet and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
To keep your delicious Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M treats fresh, store them in an air-tight container in the fridge. They can last up to two weeks, but let’s be honest; they probably won’t last that long!
How to Make Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
Making Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats is a straightforward process. Remember that preheating the oven is key to achieving the desired outcome. Start by preparing your ingredients and equipment before moving onto the baking step.
Since you are combining sweet and salty elements, take your time arranging the pretzels and chocolate. Every step requires a little care to ensure the best result. Baking at the correct temperature for the right amount of time is crucial to avoid using burnt or hard chocolate.
The pressing of M&Ms into the hugs should be done quickly. This allows the chocolate to mold around them, creating a delicious bond. Be careful while handling the tray, as it may be hot from the oven. Lastly, don’t forget to cool the treats; this step is essential for the chocolate to set properly.
How to Serve Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
Serving Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats can be as creative as you want! You can offer them on a colorful platter for a party or holiday gathering. Their festive colors make them perfect for celebrations such as Christmas, birthdays, or even Halloween.
If you want to add a personal touch, consider arranging them in small gift bags tied with a ribbon. They make a great homemade gift, especially during the holiday season. Kids love playing with the colors, and adults enjoy the rich flavors.
For a more casual setting, you can place them in a bowl on your coffee table. This way, family and friends can easily grab a treat while enjoying a chat or movie night together.
What to Serve with Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
These tasty treats pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A glass of cold milk is a classic choice, enhancing the chocolatey flavors. Alternatively, try serving them with hot chocolate or coffee for a warm complement.
For gatherings, consider setting up a dessert bar where guests can customize their snacks. You could include other treats like cookies, brownies, or even fruit to create a balanced selection. The salty and sweet contrast of the Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats makes them a delightful centerpiece.
If you want to go bold, serve them alongside ice cream. The creamy richness of ice cream along with the crunchy sweetness of the pretzel treats creates an enjoyable flavor experience.
How to Store Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
Storing your Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats properly is essential for maintaining freshness. To avoid any mess or spoilage, ensure that you keep them in an air-tight container. You can use a simple plastic or glass container with a tight-sealing lid.
Place the treats in a single layer if possible, and separate them with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Keep the container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks.
However, if you anticipate that they will not be consumed quickly, consider freezing them. You can freeze them in the same airtight container, although it is best to place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
A few simple tips can help enhance your Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats experience. First, be sure to use fresh ingredients, especially the chocolate and pretzels. Stale pretzels can ruin the texture of the treats.
If you want to elevate the flavor, try using different varieties of chocolate. Milk chocolate hugs are a classic choice, but dark chocolate can also provide a rich taste. For a festive touch, you can use colored M&Ms to fit a theme.
Finally, be patient when placing the M&Ms on the warm chocolate. If you rush this step, you might not achieve a good bond, and the M&Ms might pop off.
Variation
If you feel adventurous, consider adding toppings or flavor variations. For instance, you can sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the melted chocolate before adding the M&Ms for an extra punch of flavor.
You might also experiment with different types of candy on top, such as Reese’s Pieces or mini chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with your candy choices.
Best Time to Make Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Recipe
These treats are versatile and suitable for various occasions. However, the best time to make them is during the holiday season. With their festive colors and deliciousness, they are perfect for Christmas and Easter celebrations.
That said, any time you need a quick, easy dessert or snack, these are ideal! Weekend gatherings, birthday parties, or even just a cozy movie night at home can be perfect moments for whipping up a batch of these fun treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats turn out perfectly, avoid some common pitfalls. One frequent mistake is baking at too high a temperature. Remember, low and slow is the key to preventing burnt chocolate.
Another mistake is not working quickly when pressing down the M&Ms. If the chocolate cools too much, they won’t adhere well. Also, be careful not to overload each pretzel with too much chocolate. It can cause them to be too messy when eaten.
Nutritional Notes
While these treats are undeniably delicious, moderation is essential. They contain a good amount of sugar and fats from the chocolate and M&Ms, so keep that in mind when enjoying.
You can, however, customize the recipe by using dark chocolate hugs to create a slightly healthier version, as dark chocolate has some antioxidants.
FAQs
Can I use regular Hershey’s chocolate instead of Hershey’s Hugs?
Yes, you can absolutely use regular Hershey’s chocolate. Just note that the flavor and appearance will change slightly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pretzels to ensure the entire recipe is gluten-free.
How do I know when the chocolates are ready to add the M&Ms?
The chocolates are ready when they look shiny and begin to soften but hold their shape.
Conclusion
Pretzel Hershey Kiss M&M Treats are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them an excellent addition to any gathering. The simple preparation and fun aesthetic make them enjoyable for all ages.
Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just indulging in a sweet snack, this recipe is sure to please. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a treat that everyone will adore. Enjoy making and sharing these treats that are bound to bring smiles to faces!
