Pretzel Kisses

Chef notes

The combination of sweet and salty in these chocolatey pretzel bites is irresistible. They also look like they took hours to make, but they only need four ingredients and about 15 minutes to put together (including prep time). Here’s what you need: square pretzels, chocolate kisses, chocolate-covered caramels and candy-coated chocolate pieces (like M&Ms). 

Yes they’re salty, yes they’re sweet, but on top of all of that, these mini pretzel kisses are so easy to make. All it takes is baking chocolate kisses and caramels on top of pretzels in the ovens until the chocolate just starts to soften. Next, you’ll place an M&M (this time of year, we’re partial to the red and green varieties, but feel free to use your favorite colors) on each chocolate-topped pretzel and chill in the fridge until they’re set. Be sure to really press the M&M into the chocolate to ensure that it sticks.

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s less of a recipe and more of a technique. Use candy corn instead of M&Ms during fall, or swap marshmallows in place of caramels for a s’mores-inspired treat. Get creative and don’t worry too much about whether it’s right or wrong.

Once they’re ready, layer them on a platter if you’re hosting at home, or wrap them up in festive packaging to give to loved ones. Pro tip: they’re also the perfect make-ahead treat for easy holiday hosting.

Technique Tip: Store pretzel kisses in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Place pieces of parchment paper between each layer to prevent the bites from sticking to each other. Let soften for a few minutes before biting into them.

Swap Option: Take advantage of seasonal flavors like white chocolate and peppermint kisses (aka Candy Cake) in place of the usual chocolate.