Name: Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 70 square pretzels (do NOT use butter snaps); 70 Hershey's Hugs chocolates (from nearly 1 full 12 oz package), unwrapped; 70 Milk Chocolate M&M's (red and green Christmas package)

There’s something magically simple and totally addictive about the blend of salty pretzels and creamy Hershey’s chocolates in my Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe. These little bites bring just the right balance of crunch and sweetness that makes snack time feel special—and honestly, they’re perfect for surprising guests or just treating yourself on the regular.

The image shows a grid of small treats arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. Each treat has three layers: the bottom is a square, light brown pretzel with a slightly rough texture, followed by a melted white chocolate layer that fills the pretzel shape and is decorated with thin, diagonal milk chocolate stripes. On top of the white chocolate, a single red or green candy is placed in the center, alternating colors evenly across the grid. The candies are shiny and round, standing out against the smooth, creamy white chocolate base photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love making these Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites whenever I need a quick, fuss-free sweet snack with a wow factor. They’re incredibly easy but look like you put in a ton of effort, which is my kind of baking win.

Simple Ingredients: You only need pretzels, Hershey’s Hugs, and M&M’s—no complicated preps or mixers.
Quick to Make: The whole batch is ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for last-minute hosting or snacks.
Perfect Flavor Combo: Salty crunch plus creamy chocolate with a pop of color from M&M’s—always a crowd-pleaser.
Customizable: You can switch up your M&M colors or pretzel types to match any season or mood.

The image shows a baking tray lined with white parchment paper holding multiple rows of small treats. Each treat has three layers: the bottom is a square, crunchy pretzel with a light brown color and visible salt grains; the middle layer is a white, round chocolate piece with smooth edges and dark brown chocolate swirls on top; the top layer is one red or green candy piece placed in the center with a shiny texture and a small white letter printed on it. The treats are neatly arranged in straight lines across the tray, which rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

These three ingredients are a match made in snack heaven—each one brings something unique to the table, making these Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites irresistible. Here’s why I think each is key and some tips when picking them out.

Flat lay of a neat pile of square pretzels with golden brown edges, a small white ceramic bowl filled with shiny unwrapped silver-and-white Hershey's Hugs chocolates, a small white ceramic bowl containing glossy red and green milk chocolate M&M's, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Square Pretzels: The square shape gives a perfect little platform to nestle your chocolate on. Avoid butter snaps here—they’re too soft and won’t hold the chocolate nicely.
Hershey's Hugs Chocolates: These creamy, swirled chocolates melt just right during baking, softening without losing shape—essential for that gorgeous finish.
Milk Chocolate M&M’s: These add a colorful pop and a final touch of firm chocolate on top. Seasonal color packs work great for festivities!

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I like to tweak these Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites depending on the occasion or my pantry stash. The recipe is super forgiving, so don’t hesitate to experiment with colors and flavors to make it your own.

Variation: One year, I swapped out milk chocolate M&M’s for peanut butter ones, and it gave the bites an extra nutty twist that was a huge hit at a casual get-together.
Seasonal Twist: Try white chocolate kisses and pastel M&M’s for springtime or Valentine’s Day—it’s a sweet way to match the season.
Healthier Swap: If you want a slightly lighter approach, consider dark chocolate Hershey’s Hugs or M&M’s with reduced sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe

Step 1: Ready the Pretzels

First, preheat your oven to 200°F. I like using a Silpat mat on my baking sheet to keep things from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Lay the square pretzels in a single layer, giving each a little space.

Step 2: Add the Hershey’s Hugs

Pop one unwrapped Hershey’s Hug onto each pretzel square. This is where the magic starts, as the chocolate will soften and take the pretzel’s shape while heating.

Step 3: Bake Carefully

Bake the pretzel and chocolate combo for 4 to 5 minutes. Watch closely—the chocolate should get shiny and soft, but it’s important it doesn’t melt away. If it starts to lose its shape, pull it from the oven immediately.

Step 4: Top with M&M’s and Set

As soon as the pretzels come out of the oven, carefully press one M&M into the center of each softened Hug. Press just enough to gently spread the chocolate around but keep the chocolate intact. Then, pop the tray into your refrigerator or freezer for 5 to 15 minutes until the chocolate sets nicely.

Top Tip

From all my times making these Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites, timing is where a lot of folks can slip up. Baking a minute too long and the chocolate can melt too thin. Here’s what helped me nail it:

Watch the Oven: Don’t wander off—keep an eye on the chocolate. It softens fast, and you want to catch that perfect glossy stage.
Use a Silpat or Parchment: This prevents sticking and helps these bites pop right off your tray without frustration.
Press Lightly: When adding M&M’s, push gently to spread but avoid cracking or smashing the chocolate layer.
Freeze for Stability: Chilling these bites after assembly helps the chocolate fully set and keeps everything neat when serving.

How to Serve Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe

Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I often sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the pretzels before baking for an extra touch of salty contrast. Sometimes, I also add a dusting of edible glitter when serving at parties for a little sparkle that’s fun and festive.

Side Dishes

These bites are perfect alongside a cup of hot cocoa or a creamy latte. For a party, I pair them with fresh fruit trays or simple nuts to keep the snack table balanced and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I’ve arranged them on tiered dessert trays alternating with mini cupcake liners. Another favorite is placing them in small clear bags tied with twine as party favors; everyone loves the personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat or humidity. This keeps them crisp and delicious for up to a week. I’ve learned that throwing them in the fridge can sometimes cause the pretzels to soften.

Freezing

These bites freeze beautifully! I place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months without losing their charm. Just let them thaw at room temp before serving.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t really needed since these are best cold or room temp. But if you prefer melted chocolate, a quick 5-second zap in the microwave (watch it closely) will soften them up without losing their shape.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pretzels for Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites?

For the best results, stick with square pretzels as they create the perfect platform for the chocolate to soften on. Butter snap pretzels are too delicate and don’t hold the Hug chocolate well during baking.

How long do Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these pretzel bites stay fresh and crunchy for about a week. Avoid refrigeration to keep the pretzels crisp.

Can I make Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bites freeze wonderfully. Freeze them in a single layer first, then transfer them to a sealed container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

What if my chocolate melts too much during baking?

If the chocolate melts to a runny state, it means the oven was too hot or the baking time was too long. Reduce the bake to 4 minutes next time and keep a close eye on the chocolates—they should just get soft and shiny without losing their shape.

Final Thoughts

These Hershey's Hug Pretzel Bites Recipe have become such a quick go-to in my kitchen whenever I want something homemade but without a ton of fuss. Sharing them with friends always sparks joy because of how simple and satisfying they are. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do—it’s one of those recipes that brings smiles with every bite!