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What kind of recipe is it?
Pretzel Christmas Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and salty, making them a unique holiday treat.
These cookies feature a crunchy pretzel base topped with a layer of chocolate and festive candies, creating a visually appealing and delicious snack.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re easy to make and fun to customize, making them ideal for both kids and adults.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pretzels (mini or regular) | 2 cups |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| White chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Mini M&M candies (or similar) | 1/2 cup |
| Sprinkles (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Sea salt (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Parchment paper | For lining the baking sheet |
Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences or the number of cookies you wish to make!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 135 °C (275 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line a baking sheet (about 43 x 30 cm / 17 x 12 inches) with parchment paper.
- Measure 2 cups (approximately 280 g) of pretzels and spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making certain they’re in a single layer without overlapping.
- In a small heatproof bowl, melt 1 cup (170 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use the microwave in 30-second intervals at medium power, stirring between each until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted, about 1-2 minutes total.
- Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the pretzels, using a fork to create a zig-zag pattern; make sure it’s evenly distributed.
- In a separate small heatproof bowl, melt 1 cup (170 g) of white chocolate chips using the same microwave method, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the pretzels in the same fashion as the semi-sweet chocolate. Use a spoon to help control the drizzle if needed.
- While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle 1/2 cup (about 75 g) of mini M&M candies evenly across the pretzels, making sure they stick to the chocolate.
- Optionally, sprinkle 1/4 cup (30 g) of sprinkles and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt over the top for added flavor and decoration.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the chocolates are glossy but not hardened. Be careful not to overbake; the aroma should be sweet and chocolatey.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. The chocolates will firm up as they cool.
- Once completely cooled, break the pretzel clusters apart and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup (75 g) of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the chocolate drizzle for a crunchy texture.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet and white chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free treat.
- Spicy Sweetness: Mix in 1 teaspoon (5 g) of cayenne pepper with the melted chocolate for a sweet and spicy flavor twist.
- Holiday Peppermint: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) of crushed peppermint candies into the sprinkles for a festive minty touch.
Tips on plating and presentation
How can you make your Pretzel Christmas Cookies look as good as they taste? First, I recommend using a colorful platter or a festive holiday-themed tray to give a joyful backdrop.
For added flair, arrange the cookies in circles or stacks, alternating with small decorative elements like sprigs of rosemary or cinnamon sticks. Drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies creates a beautiful contrast, and adding colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets can elevate their appearance.
Don’t forget about height; using cake stands can make the presentation more dynamic.
Finally, consider wrapping individual cookies in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a personal touch that’s perfect for gift-giving. Trust me, these touches will impress everyone at your holiday gathering!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
After you’ve got your Pretzel Christmas Cookies beautifully plated, it’s time to think about what dishes complement them at your holiday gathering.
I love pairing these sweet and salty treats with a festive cheese board. The creamy textures of Brie and sharpness of aged cheddar create a delightful contrast.
You might also consider including a charcuterie platter—cured meats add savory notes that balance the cookies’ sweetness.
Don’t forget about a fruit display, focusing on seasonal options like pomegranate or mandarin oranges; their brightness pairs wonderfully.
Finally, some warm gingerbread or spiced nuts can tie everything together, enhancing the holiday flavors.
With these pairings, your dessert table will be the star of the feast!
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can elevate your Pretzel Christmas Cookies to new heights? I’ve found that pairing these sweet and salty treats with a crisp glass of milk is a classic choice.
If you’re looking for something a bit more festive, why not try hot cocoa? The richness complements the flavors perfectly.
For those who enjoy a bit of sparkle, a light sparkling cider or even champagne can create a delightful contrast!
I also love enjoying these cookies with a spiced apple cider; the warmth and spices really enhance their taste.
If you want a non-alcoholic option that’s a bit more invigorating, a peppermint tea can add a nice touch.
Whatever you choose, your pretzel cookies will shine!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Pretzel Cookies in Advance?
Absolutely, you can make these pretzel cookies in advance! I often prepare them a few days ahead. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious until you’re ready to enjoy.
How Should I Store Leftover Pretzel Cookies?
I store my leftover pretzel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If I want them to last longer, I’ll freeze them in a resealable bag, then just thaw them before enjoying!
Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Yes, I’ve found that using gluten-free pretzels and almond flour instead of regular flour works well. You can still enjoy the taste; just make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free. Happy baking!
Can I Change the Chocolate Type Used?
Absolutely, you can change the chocolate type! I’ve used dark and white chocolate in the past, and both worked great. Just experiment with your favorite flavors to find the perfect combination that suits your taste!
Are These Cookies Suitable for Gifting?
I’ve found these cookies make delightful gifts. Their unique combination of sweet and salty flavors impresses everyone. Plus, they’re easy to package, ensuring they look as good as they taste when shared with friends.