Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses

Who doesn’t love a sweet and salty treat, especially during the holiday season? These Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses are the perfect blend of crunchy pretzels, melty chocolate, and festive peppermint. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply craving a delightful snack, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your taste buds. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Let’s dive into the magic of these sweet bites!

Why This Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses Stands Out

Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses are not just a snack; they’re a holiday tradition in many households. The combination of salty pretzels and sweet chocolate creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. The addition of crushed candy canes adds a festive touch and a delightful crunch. These treats are perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging in yourself. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile and can be made with various flavors of Kisses, making them a year-round favorite.

Shopping List

• 2 bags of Kisses (Candy Cane or any flavor of your choice, unwrapped)
• 1 (1 pound) bag of waffle-style pretzels
• Candy canes (for crushing and garnishing)

Tools of the Trade

• Baking sheet – To line your treats as they bake.
• Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Microwave-safe bowl – For melting the Kisses, if you choose to melt them first.
• Rolling pin or zip-top bag – For crushing the candy canes.

Build Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your Kisses melt perfectly when placed on the pretzels.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the pretzel kisses without sticking.

Step 3: Arrange the Pretzels

Place the waffle-style pretzels on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure to leave some space between each pretzel to allow for the chocolate to spread.

Step 4: Add the Kisses

Unwrap your Kisses and place one on top of each pretzel. If you’re using Candy Cane Kisses, the festive flavor will shine through!

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for about 4-5 minutes. You want the Kisses to start melting but not lose their shape. Keep an eye on them!

Step 6: Crush the Candy Canes

While the Kisses are melting, take your candy canes and place them in a zip-top bag. Use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. Set aside for garnishing.

Step 7: Top with Crushed Candy Canes

Once the Kisses have melted, remove the baking sheet from the oven. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top of each Kiss. This adds a beautiful and festive touch.

Step 8: Let Cool

Allow the Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, the chocolate will harden, making them easy to handle.

Make It Year-Round

• Use different flavored Kisses for various occasions—like caramel or peanut butter for a different taste experience.
• Change the toppings based on the season: try crushed nuts for a fall treat or sprinkles for a birthday party.
• Create themed versions for holidays by using colored chocolate or themed sprinkles.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

These Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses are incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt. If you find yourself short on candy canes, you can use other crushed candies, like toffee or chocolate-covered mints. Experimenting with toppings can lead to delightful surprises!

• Feel free to adjust the baking time based on your oven’s performance; some may need a bit more time for the Kisses to melt perfectly.
• These treats can also be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

These Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a container. They will keep well for up to two months.
• Reheat: If you prefer them warm, place them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) for a few minutes until the chocolate softens.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use regular pretzels instead of waffle-style pretzels?

Yes, regular pretzels will work, but waffle-style pretzels create a better base for the Kisses and add an extra crunch.

What if I can’t find Candy Cane Kisses?

No worries! You can use any flavor of Kisses to suit your taste. This recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of creativity.

Can I make these in advance for a party?

Absolutely! These treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep them in a cool place to maintain their texture.

How do I prevent the melted chocolate from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper is key! It provides a non-stick surface that makes it easy to lift the pretzel kisses off after they cool.

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more delicious recipes that combine sweet and salty flavors or want to explore festive treats, stay tuned! The world of easy, delectable desserts is vast and inviting, just like these Candy Cane Pretzel Kisses. You’ll find endless inspiration to keep your kitchen buzzing and your taste buds happy. Enjoy your journey through the land of sweet treats, and remember, the best adventures often start with a little bit of chocolate!