These Reindeer Pretzel Bites are a fun and tasty treat for the holidays! They use salty pretzels, sweet chocolate, and colorful candies to make adorable reindeer faces.
Who knew snacks could be so cute? Making them is a breeze, and I love how each bite is a mix of sweet and salty. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself! 🥨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Small round pretzels: These are the base for your reindeer. They provide a crunchy texture. If you’re short on pretzels, you can use chocolate-covered pretzels for an added sweet touch.
Milk chocolate candy melts: These melt beautifully and form the face of the reindeer. If you prefer dark chocolate, it can work well too, just be aware it gives a richer flavor!
Red candy-coated chocolates: I love using red M&M’s for the noses since they are the perfect size and color. If you want, use chocolate-covered cherries or even any red gumdrop for a fun twist!
Peanut butter balls: These add a lovely texture to the muzzle. If you need a nut-free option, substitute with butterscotch or any small cookie dough balls.
How Do You Make the Perfect Antlers for Your Pretzel Bites?
Creating antlers is a fun step! You have two options – just use small pretzel sticks or make a slightly modified version with pretzel rods. Break them in half for a natural look. Here’s how to get them right:
- Be quick! After pulling the pretzels from the oven, the chocolate will be soft but can set quickly.
- Gently press the pretzel pieces into the melted chocolate, 1-2 inches apart. Make sure they’re secure so they won’t fall off later.
- Don’t stress if they look a little wonky; each one becomes a unique reindeer!
Keep it fun and enjoy the process as you create these adorable holiday treats!
Reindeer Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Reindeer:
- 40 small round pretzels
- 40 small pretzel sticks or pretzel antlers (about 80 small pretzel rod pieces, broken in half for antlers)
- 40 milk chocolate candy melts or chocolate chips
For the Decorations:
- 40 white candy melts or white chocolate chips (for eyes)
- 40 small black candy dots or edible black markers (for pupils)
- 40 red candy-coated chocolates (like red M&M’s or red cinnamon candies for noses)
- 40 small peanut butter balls or butterscotch-flavored small balls rolled in sugar (for muzzles)
- Optional: a little bit of white icing or melted white chocolate to stick eyes on
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 5 minutes in the oven. You’ll need extra time to let the chocolate set. In total, you can easily whip these up in about 30-45 minutes, making them a fun project for a holiday snack or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your treats from sticking.
2. Prepare the Pretzels:
Arrange the small round pretzels evenly spaced on the baking sheet. On top of each pretzel, place one milk chocolate candy melt or chocolate chip. This will soon become the face of your reindeer!
3. Bake the Pretzels:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake everything for about 3 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for the chocolate to soften but not completely melt—just enough to mold it easily when you remove it.
4. Add the Antlers:
Once out of the oven, quickly press two small pretzel sticks or halves into the top of the softened chocolate to create the reindeer’s antlers. Be quick, as the chocolate will set fast!
5. Create the Muzzle:
Next, press one peanut butter ball (or any sugar-coated small ball) just below the antlers into the chocolate. This will be the reindeer’s cute little muzzle.
6. Nose Time!
Now, take one red candy-coated chocolate and place it right above the muzzle on the chocolate to create a bright and cheerful nose!
7. Making the Eyes:
For the reindeer’s eyes, melt the white candy melts or white chocolate and drop small dots on parchment paper with a toothpick or piping bag to form little eyes. Let these dots set slightly, then carefully add a small black candy dot or use an edible marker for the pupils.
8. Assemble the Eyes:
Using a dab of melted white chocolate or icing, stick the eyes above the muzzle on the chocolate-covered pretzels. This will bring your reindeer to life!
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Allow the pretzel bites to cool completely until the chocolate is set. Once they’re ready, serve them up on a festive platter and enjoy all the compliments from your friends and family!
These adorable Reindeer Pretzel Bites are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering, combining the perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate for the Faces?
Absolutely! While milk chocolate is delicious, you can use dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a fun and different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
How Should I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftover Reindeer Pretzel Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Can I Make These Pretzel Bites in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare these in advance! Assemble the pretzel bites, then store them in the refrigerator. Just allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to let the chocolate soften slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Peanut Butter Balls?
If you need a nut-free alternative, you can substitute the peanut butter balls with butterscotch-flavored candies or small sugar-coated cookie dough balls. They will still give your reindeer a sweet, festive touch!
