Pretzel Christmas Trees

Christmas is coming, and if you’re a fan of chocolate and pretzels, I’ve got a fun treat idea for you. We’re talking about pretzel Christmas trees, a creative and tasty holiday topping.

Whether you enjoy them alone or use them as festive cupcake toppers, these chocolate-covered pretzels shaped like a Christmas tree will surely add cheer to your holiday season. 

That means everyone in the family can get involved in decorating. Want to add some more fun? Add other perfect-for-Christmas homemade treats, like butter mints or Christmas tree cake dip for a fun night with the kids.

How to make Chocolate Christmas Tree Pretzels

Line one or more baking sheets with parchment paper.

Melt the Candy: Place half of the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60 seconds at 50% power, stirring and repeating until smooth.

Create a Piping Bag: Pour the melted chocolate into a resealable sandwich bag and seal it. Snip a small corner to prepare for piping.

Start with the Base: Pipe a small dollop of melted chocolate onto the parchment paper. Press a salty pretzel stick into the chocolate, anchoring it so it won’t roll on the baking sheet.

Shape the Trees: Drizzle chocolate into a tree shape/tree branches on top of each pretzel stick.

Work in batches: Make about three trees at a time before decorating so the chocolate doesn’t harden. Add a star on top and candy sprinkles to decorate. Repeat until you are done with trees.

Let Them Harden: Let the chocolate trees stand until hardened. They can be served stand alone or added to top cupcakes, cakes, or Christmas dips.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Detailed Trees Option: If you find that drizzling chocolate from a melting bag’s corner doesn’t give you the detailed look you’re aiming for, consider ordering Fine Cake Decorating tips. A 1M tip is great for piping, providing precision and a beautiful finish.

Try mini candy cane peppermint sticks instead of pretzels for a fun and festive twist on this perfect treat.

Pretzel rods might be too big of a tree trunk for cupcakes but excellent for cakes. For a different look, you can use white chocolate or colored candy melt sticks.

Holiday Sprinkles

There are a variety of sprinkles that are perfect to decorate the tree. 

• Silver and Gold Mini Stars: A star-shaped sprinkle finishes up the look. They can make your treats look festive, perfect for a sophisticated holiday gathering.
• Metallic Gold Star Sprinkles: Want to add a rich, shimmering effect? These metallic gold stars make your treats look like Midas has touched them. A tasty treat for a glamorous holiday party!
• Rose Gold Sprinkles and Stars: With a softer pink theme, these can add a romantic and unique flair to your treats. They’re lovely for a winter wonderland-themed event or to add a touch of femininity. Snowflake sprinkles would be cute too.

Storing Christmas Tree Pretzels

Let Them Harden Completely: Ensure the chocolate is completely set and firm to the touch before storing pretzel trees.

Choose the Right Container: Select an airtight container large enough to hold the trees without squishing them. If you have to stack them, place a layer of parchment or wax paper between each layer of trees to prevent sticking.

Room Temperature Storage: If you enjoy the treats within a few days, you can store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator Storage: Place the airtight container in the refrigerator for extended storage for up to two weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

So there you have it—a festive treat that’s a little trip down memory lane and a lot of yummy. These pretzel Christmas trees aren’t just great holiday treats; they will create a beautiful Christmas tradition with your family.