Name: Reindeer Pretzel Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 48 mini pretzel twists; 24 salted caramel Rolos; 48 candy eyeballs; 24 red and brown M&M’s

Looking for a Christmas treat that’s just as adorable as it is delicious? These Reindeer Pretzel Bites hit the mark! With only four simple ingredients, you’ll have a tray full of sweet-and-salty reindeer that are guaranteed to charm guests of all ages.

Between the crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel Rolos, and candy decorations, these little guys are always a hit at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, and even school bake sales. Plus, they’re easy enough for kids to help decorate — which makes them double the fun.

What You’ll Need

48 mini pretzel twists
24 salted caramel Rolos
48 candy eyeballs
24 red or brown M&M’s (red for Rudolph, brown for the rest of the herd)

Overhead view of pretzels, Rolos, candy eyes, and M&Ms for making reindeer pretzel bites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the oven
Preheat to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the antlers
Cut half of the pretzels in half with a sharp knife to form “antlers.” Don’t stress if they aren’t perfect — reindeer antlers are all unique!

Pretzels cut in half with uneven edges to make antlers.

3. Base + chocolate
Place whole pretzels on the tray and top each one with an unwrapped Rolo, positioned toward the bottom half of the pretzel.

Softened Rolos with pretzel antlers pressed in on a baking tray

4. Soften the Rolos
Bake for 2–3 minutes until softened but still holding their shape. Watch closely so they don’t collapse.

5. Decorate the reindeer
While the chocolate is soft, press a pair of pretzel antlers into the top of each Rolo. Add candy eyes, then finish with an M&M nose. Use a red M&M for Rudolph and brown ones for the rest.

6. Set and serve
Let them firm up at room temperature for 20 minutes, or refrigerate for 10 minutes if you’re in a hurry.

Tips for Success

Cut extra pretzels since some will break unevenly.
Work quickly while the Rolos are soft.
A mix of Rudolphs and “regular” reindeer makes your tray look extra festive.
Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days (or refrigerate if making ahead).

Reindeer Pretzel Bites

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 3

Setting Tim 20

Total Time 38

Servings: 24 treats

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

48 mini pretzel twists
24 salted caramel Rolos
48 candy eyeballs
24 red and brown M&M’s

Method

Preheat oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut 24 pretzels in half to make antlers.
Place 24 whole pretzels on the sheet, topping each with a Rolo near the bottom.
Bake 2–3 minutes until softened but not melted.
Immediately press pretzel halves on top for antlers. Add 2 candy eyes and an M&M nose to each.
Let cool until chocolate sets. Serve and enjoy!