We’re back with probably my easiest recipe yet for my “25 bakes of Christmas” series this month. With only three ingredients, my favorite easy Pretzel M&M Hugs will become a fun family tradition you’ll crave every year around the holidays!

HOW TO MAKE PRETZEL M&M HUGS

These darling little sweet and salty snack bites are pretty addicting, but we can’t help but make them every year around the holidays. You’ll only need three ingredients, so I feel kind of silly even sharing the recipe. However, there are a few helpful tips I’ve noted while making them that I feel would be pretty helpful to you! I’ll make sure to include them as we go along.

*I’ve also included variations of this treat including ROLOS and PECANS if you’re into that version instead!

UNWRAP ALL THE THINGS

Whether you’re using Hugs or Rolos, you’ll need to unwrap quite a few treats to get started. This is a great job for your kiddos to help with if they’re anxious to get in the kitchen with you. I find it to be the most time-consuming part of this treat, so it’s nice to get that one out of the way to get to the fun part!

HUGS or ROLOS

I used Hugs this time, but you can certainly use Rolos or regular Hershey Kisses instead. The baking time will be similar for both, and the process will be similar, too. I’ve added the directions for both versions below. You’ll need quite a bit – so grab the “sharable” version of both so that you’ll have enough for the whole sheet pan.

WHICH PRETZEL TO USE?

I opted for the square pretzels, but if you can find the circle ones or even the festive holiday star ones (I know they’re out there, I just couldn’t find them this time!), they should all behave pretty similarly. Rods obviously won’t work, and the traditional pretzel shape might be a bit more tricky. But it’s totally up to you. Line them up in the pan and place your Hug or Rolo right on top.

What TIME AND temperature to bake my pretzel m&m hugs at?

I do 200 degrees. You want them to bake slowly – a slight melt is what you’re aiming for. I noticed that when I hit the 5 minute mark, the Hugs looked glossy/melty, so I pulled them out. Your oven may behave differently, so keep an eye on them starting at the three minute mark. If they’re too melty, they will melt into a pool of chocolate in your pan. It will taste the same, but won’t look as pretty, that’s for sure!

How to store pretzel m&m hugs

I let them cool in the fridge/freezer for a few minutes to make sure the chocolate has set completely, then I stored them in an airtight container. Confession: we do have a bowl of them on our table with our holiday decorations and that has been DANGEROUS, folks. Danger, danger, warning, caution, all the things. They’re too good, and we can’t stop. But we won’t stop, :).

These are so fun to share with friends and family, too! Wrap them up in a little bag with a bow and you have a fun treat to bring to your holiday gatherings. Everyone will love them and you’ll have them out of your house so you don’t have to eat the whole batch. Not speaking from experience or anything ;).

VIDEO of the process:

I can’t wait to see all your Pretzel M&M Hugs! If you make a batch this month, I’d love to see it! Make sure to tag me @bakingwithblondie or #bakingwithblondie on Instagram or TikTok so I can join in on all the fun!

As always, happy baking!

xo,

Mandy

Get the Recipe: Easy Pretzel M&M Hugs

Sweet and salty come together with a tasty easy treat! With only three ingredients and three layers, these fun little snacks come together in minutes (minus the wrapper unwrapping time 🙂 ). The kids can help with that, right?
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Ingredients
 

  • 2 large 10oz packages Hersheys Hugs – OR – Rolos
  • 1/2 16oz package Square Pretzels – OR- Round Pretzels
  • 1 package Red & Green Holiday M&Ms -OR- Half Pecans

Equipment

  • 1 Cookie Sheet
  • 1 rectangle of parchment paper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. Prep a cookie sheet with a sheet of parchment paper, set aside.
  • Unwrap the Hugs or Rolos candy. Set aside.
  • Place a layer of pretzels in the bottom of the prepared cookie sheet. Place one Hug/Rolo on top of each pretzel.
  • Place into the oven for 5 minutes, or until the Hugs/Rolos are shiny (not melted). Remove from the oven and let sit for about 30 seconds (so the centers can continue to melt inside).
  • Carefully place on a pecan or M&M on each of the melty Hugs/Rolos. Place into the freezer or fridge for 5 minutes to set. Enjoy!