Are you looking for a ridiculously easy yet incredibly impressive holiday treat? Look no further! These Christmas Crack Pretzels are the perfect answer. They're sweet, salty, crunchy, and utterly irresistible – guaranteed to disappear faster than Santa's cookies on Christmas Eve. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a quick and delicious addition to your holiday baking repertoire. It’s also a fantastic homemade gift, easily customized to fit your favorite colors and flavors. Get ready to experience the magic of these festive delights!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounce) bag of pretzel twists
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup holiday sprinkles (red, green, silver, and white)
- Optional: Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for ensuring your pretzels cook evenly and don't stick.
Making the Sweet and Salty Magic:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until fully dissolved and smooth. This is where the magic begins! Don't rush this step; make sure everything is thoroughly combined.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and vanilla extract. Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This creates the perfect base for your delicious Christmas Crack Pretzels.
Coating the Pretzels:
- Add the pretzel twists to the saucepan, ensuring they are well-coated in the sugary mixture. It’s best to use tongs or a spatula to gently toss the pretzels. Work in batches if necessary to ensure all pretzels get coated.
Baking to Perfection:
- Spread the pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sugar is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Sprinkling & Setting:
- Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle the pretzels generously with your holiday sprinkles. Work quickly as the mixture will begin to set quickly. You can also sprinkle a little sea salt on top for an extra salty-sweet kick.
Cooling and Enjoying:
- Let the pretzels cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them apart. This allows the sugar to fully harden, creating that signature crackly texture. Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy!
Tips for Christmas Crack Pretzel Success:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the pretzels are in a single layer for even cooking and browning.
- Use good quality sprinkles: The sprinkles are a key component of the visual appeal, so splurge on some festive and colorful ones!
- Customize your sprinkles: Use different colored sprinkles to match your holiday theme. Consider adding crushed candy canes or other festive candies for extra flair.
- Store properly: Store your Christmas Crack Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They'll stay wonderfully crunchy!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on pretzel size and sprinkle amount)
Variations:
- Different Pretzels: Experiment with different types of pretzels, such as rods or mini pretzels.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm spice flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the pretzels for an extra decadent touch.
This easy recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply satisfying your sweet and salty cravings. Enjoy the deliciousness!