With only three ingredients, these Christmas Pretzel Hugs are one of the simplest and tastiest holiday treats you can make. They’re fast to prepare and always a hit at Christmas parties.
An Easy Christmas Dessert I’ve Made for Years
Christmas Pretzel Hugs are a go-to holiday recipe because they require almost no effort and always vanish quickly from cookie trays and party platters. I’ve enjoyed using Hershey’s Kisses in holiday baking for years—their nostalgic flavors make these treats feel festive and familiar.
Just Three Simple Ingredients
You only need mini pretzels, Hershey’s Kisses, and M&M’s. Seasonal Kiss flavors like Candy Cane add a fun twist, but classic milk chocolate works beautifully too. Mix and match flavors each year to keep things interesting.
Watch How to Make Christmas Pretzel Hugs
Candy Cane and Classic Hershey’s Kisses Both Work Great
I’ve used both Candy Cane Kisses and traditional milk chocolate Kisses with excellent results. Note that some seasonal Kisses soften a bit faster than others, so watch them closely while they’re in the oven to avoid over-melting.
Ingredients to make Christmas Pretzel Hugs
- Mini pretzels: A crunchy base that delivers the ideal sweet-and-salty bite.
- Hershey’s Kisses (any flavor, unwrapped): These soften in the oven to “hug” the pretzel and provide rich chocolate flavor.
- M&M’s: Press one on top of each softened Kiss after baking for color and an extra chocolate finish.
How to Make Christmas Pretzel Hugs
Preheat the oven to 200°F (about 95°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the mini pretzels in a single layer on the sheet.
Place one Hershey’s Kiss on top of each pretzel.
Bake for 8 minutes, or until the Kisses have softened but not fully melted.
Remove the sheet from the oven and immediately press one M&M into the center of each softened Kiss.
Allow the pretzel hugs to cool completely before serving so the chocolate sets around the candy.
Storage Tips for Pretzel Hugs
Store your Christmas Pretzel Hugs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
You can also freeze the treats in a sealed container for up to two months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
A Traditional Christmas Dessert With a Modern Twist
Although not a multi-generation heirloom, Christmas Pretzel Hugs have become a modern classic on holiday dessert tables. Their sweet-and-salty contrast makes them a perennial favorite at school parties, family gatherings, and cookie exchanges.
More Pretzel Bite Dessert Ideas
If you enjoy pretzel bites, try other seasonal variations for different holidays. Simple changes—different candies, colors, or Kiss flavors—create fresh takes that are equally quick and festive.
Christmas Pretzel Hugs
Equipment
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1 Baking Sheet
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Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 12 oz Butter Snap Pretzels (or mini square pretzels)
- 9 oz HERSHEY’S Kisses (any flavor)
- 10 oz Holiday M&M’s
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the pretzels in even rows.
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Place a Hershey’s Kiss on each pretzel and bake for about 8 minutes, until the candies soften but don’t fully lose their shape.
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Remove from the oven and quickly press an M&M into the center of each softened Kiss. Let cool completely so the chocolate firms up.