Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors, you’ve come to the right place! These Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels are not only easy to make, but they also bring the magic of the holidays into your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing for family gatherings, holiday parties, or just want a fun snack to enjoy while cozying up on the couch, this recipe is a festive favorite that everyone will love.

I adore how these treats can brighten up any occasion. Their crunchy texture paired with the refreshing taste of peppermint makes them perfect for cookie trays or as gifts. Plus, kids and adults alike find them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These treats come together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in under 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Making Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels is a great way to involve the kids in the kitchen. They’ll love dipping the pretzels and sprinkling on the candy canes!
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in festive bags or jars for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will cherish.
• Versatile Treat: These pretzels are not just for the holidays; they’re a fun snack any time of year.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet chocolate and crunchy peppermint appeals to everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Pretzel Coating

• 30 – 35 mini pretzel twists or pretzel crisps
• 12 oz. white candy melts

For Topping

• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative with flavors and toppings! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add a Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the finished pretzels for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use Different Candies: Swap out crushed candy canes for other holiday-themed toppings like sprinkles or crushed peppermint bark.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top along with or instead of candy canes for added crunch.
• Colorful Coating: Use colored candy melts to match your event’s theme—think red and green for Christmas!

How to Make Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface

Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Melt the Candy Coating

Melt the white candy melts according to package directions. Stirring occasionally ensures they become smooth and creamy. This coating is what gives our pretzels their delicious sweetness.

Step 3: Coat the Pretzels

Using a fork, dunk each pretzel into the melted candy coating. Make sure each pretzel gets fully coated by gently shaking off any excess coating before transferring it back onto the parchment paper. The coating needs to stick well so that we can add our colorful topping!

Step 4: Add Crushed Candy Canes

Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes over each coated pretzel while it’s still wet. This adds that festive crunch we all love! Repeat this process until all your pretzels are coated.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Allow the candy coating to harden before serving. You can speed this up by placing them in the fridge for about 20 minutes. Once they’re set, they’re ready to be enjoyed!

These Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels are sure to become one of your go-to recipes during the holiday season—and beyond! Enjoy sharing this sweet treat with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels

These delightful treats are simple to make, but a few tips can take them from good to great!

• Choose Quality Candy Melts: Using high-quality candy melts will ensure a smooth and glossy finish that not only looks appealing but also tastes delicious.
• Crush Candy Canes with Care: When crushing candy canes, aim for a mix of fine and chunky pieces. This variety adds texture and visual interest to your pretzels.
• Work Quickly: Once you’ve coated the pretzels, sprinkle the crushed candy canes immediately while the coating is still wet. This helps the candy bits adhere better.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your pretzels to cool fully on the parchment paper before storing them. This prevents any sticking together or mess when you package them up.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a dash of peppermint extract to the melted candy melts for an extra minty kick. It’s a fun twist that can elevate the flavor profile!

How to Serve Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels

These festive treats can be presented in a variety of ways that will impress friends and family during the holiday season!

Garnishes

• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of dark or milk chocolate over the top adds richness and visual appeal.
• Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweet-salty balance and provides a beautiful contrast against the white chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Hot Chocolate: Pair these pretzels with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience. The rich chocolate complements the peppermint perfectly.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a lightness to your spread, balancing out the sweetness of the pretzels with fresh flavors.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese alongside crackers. The creamy textures provide a nice contrast to the crunchiness of the pretzels.
• Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch, making it an ideal savory counterpart to your sweet treats.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels will be sure to delight everyone during this festive season! Enjoy creating these wonderful holiday snacks!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels are not only a delightful treat but also an excellent option for meal prep, making them perfect for holiday gifting or snacking throughout the season!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will keep their freshness for up to one week.
• Ensure they’re placed in a cool, dry spot to prevent the candy coating from melting or becoming sticky.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the pretzels in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 30 minutes.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label the container!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these delightful treats; simply take them out of storage and enjoy!
• If you prefer them slightly warm, you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels!

Can I use different types of pretzels for Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels?

Absolutely! You can substitute mini pretzel twists with pretzel rods or even gluten-free pretzels if desired. The candy coating will still provide that festive sweetness.

How do I make Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels without white candy melts?

You can use almond bark or any other sweet chocolate alternative that is dairy-free. Just ensure it melts smoothly before dipping your pretzels.

How long do Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these treats can last up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Candy Cane Peppermint Pretzels! They truly embody the spirit of the holidays with their delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying a quiet moment with a snack, these treats are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy snacking, and don’t forget to spread some holiday cheer by sharing your creations!