Pretzel Christmas Crack
Pretzel Christmas Crack is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings. The balance of crunchy pretzels, creamy chocolate, and a hint of sea salt creates a snack that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking for a fun and festive dessert to share this season, you’ll love the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe.
Why Make This Recipe
This Pretzel Christmas Crack is perfect for any holiday occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or need a thoughtful gift for a neighbor. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, who can say no to a candy that combines the satisfying crunch of pretzels with the sweet allure of chocolate and just a sprinkle of M&M’s? It’s festive, it’s fun, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Pretzel Christmas Crack
Making Pretzel Christmas Crack is a simple process that involves just a few steps and ingredients. Here’s how to whip up this delectable treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s (optional)
- Sea salt (to taste)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the pretzels out in a single layer.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat, stirring until bubbly.
- Pour the mixture over the pretzels, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot pretzel mixture.
- Let the chocolate sit for a minute to melt, then spread it out evenly.
- If using, sprinkle M&M’s and sea salt on top.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces and serving.
Pro Tips for Success Pretzel Christmas Crack
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pretzels and chocolate chips for the best flavor. Stale snacks can diminish the overall taste of your treats.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your pretzels while baking. You want them to caramelize slightly without burning, so the ideal time is about 5-7 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: Allow the chocolate to sit briefly before spreading. This makes it easier to create a smooth surface.
- Break Evenly: When breaking up the cooled candy, you might want to use a sharp knife for cleaner edges or simply break it apart with your hands for a rustic look.
- Mix It Up: Get creative by adding nuts or dried fruits to the mix before baking for additional flavor and texture.
- Serving Size Control: Keep in mind that this treat is rich! Offering smaller pieces can help everyone get a taste without overindulging.
Flavor Variations Pretzel Christmas Crack
If you’d like to customize your Pretzel Christmas Crack, here are some fun flavor variations:
- Peanut Butter Twist: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer before it sets for a nutty flavor.
- White Chocolate Delight: Substitute dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different sweetness.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles on top instead of M&M’s for a fun and festive flair.
- Spicy Heat: Sprinkle a little cayenne pepper or chili powder for a sweet and spicy combination that takes the traditional recipe to another level.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds before baking for an added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions Pretzel Christmas Crack
Pretzel Christmas Crack is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delightful suggestions:
- Gift It: Pack it in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons to give as gifts.
- Party Platter: Serve alongside other festive treats on a dessert platter at holiday parties.
- Layered Dessert: Use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for a delightful crunch.
- Snack for Movie Night: Keep some on hand for a quick and sweet treat during family movie nights.
- Breakfast Topping: Crumble it over pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast option.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Pretzel Christmas Crack
If you happen to have any leftovers (though unlikely), storing Pretzel Christmas Crack is simple:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigerator: For a longer shelf life, keep it in the refrigerator where it can last for two to three weeks.
- Freezing: If you’d like to prepare a batch in advance, it’s freezer-friendly! Just cut it into pieces, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|————-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates| 22g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
FAQ About Pretzel Christmas Crack
Can I use different types of pretzels?
Absolutely! While traditional pretzels work perfectly, you can also experiment with flavored pretzels, like cheese or honey mustard, to add a fun twist.
Is there a substitute for brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use regular granulated sugar. However, to mimic the flavor of brown sugar, you could add a teaspoon of molasses per cup of white sugar to create a similar taste profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply opt for gluten-free pretzels, and you’ll have a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.
How do I know when the pretzels are done baking?
You’ll know the pretzels are ready when the caramel mixture is bubbly, and they have a lovely golden color. Be careful not to overbake as it can lead to a burnt flavor.
Can I use different types of chocolate instead of chocolate chips?
Certainly! You can use chunks of chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even specialty varieties like mint chocolate or toffee bits for different flavor profiles.
How can I make a dairy-free version of this recipe?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil, and ensure the chocolate chips used are dairy-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Pretzel Christmas Crack is not only a simple and delicious treat but also a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season. The combination of sweet and salty flavors, along with its easy preparation, makes it the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you choose to enjoy it with family, gift it to friends, or simply keep it for yourself, this treat is sure to bring joy to all. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delightful holiday dessert!
Print
Pretzel Christmas Crack
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s (optional)
- Sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the pretzels out in a single layer.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat, stirring until bubbly.
- Pour the mixture over the pretzels, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot pretzel mixture.
- Let the chocolate sit for a minute to melt, then spread it out evenly.
- If using, sprinkle M&M’s and sea salt on top.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces and serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best flavor and don’t overbake to avoid burnt pretzels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
