Chocolate Pretzel Rings with Kisses and M&M Reindeer Noses

Chocolate Pretzel Rings with Kisses and M&Ms are a delightful sweet-and-salty Christmas snack. Bite-sized and quick to prepare, they chill rapidly in the fridge and are perfect for a holiday dessert table.

This simple Christmas treat is a family favorite. After making similar Reindeer Noses with my mom for years, we discovered the best way to get a nicely melted chocolate center that still holds an M&M on top.

They disappear fast once set out, and if you have extra M&Ms, you can use them in other holiday recipes.

Why Are They Called Reindeer Noses?

These treats are often called Reindeer Noses because red M&Ms can mimic Rudolph’s glowing nose. Traditional recipes use Hershey’s Kisses, which produce a distinctive rounded mound, but I prefer Hershey Hugs (the swirled white and milk chocolate) because they melt and flatten more predictably, giving a neater finished look.

Even if they don’t look exactly like a reindeer nose, especially when using Hugs, they remain festive and delicious.

Ingredients

You only need three main ingredients to make Chocolate Pretzel Rings with Kisses and M&Ms. Scale quantities as needed, keeping the ingredient amounts balanced.

• Pretzel rings (round pretzels)
• Hershey Hugs (swirled Kisses)
• Holiday M&Ms (red and green)

You’ll also need a cookie sheet and parchment paper.

Where to Find Pretzel Rings

Pretzel rings can be harder to locate than they used to be. Some brands no longer stock holiday shapes. Look for store-brand round pretzels in larger supermarkets; they’re sometimes sold in bulk bins or large tubs. I’ve found them under store brands in the snack aisle at several chains.

If you can’t find round pretzels, pretzel twists or pretzel squares work as substitutes.

2025 Pretzel Ring Sightings

Clancy’s Pretzel Rings at Aldi — spotted by my mom.

Signature Select Pretzel Rings at Albertsons — often found in a special bin or barrel in the snacks area rather than with standard pretzels.

If you discover other sources for round pretzels, consider using store comments or local tips to help others. Again, pretzel twists or squares make fine stand-ins if needed.

Alternatives to Hershey Hugs

Hershey Hugs melt smoothly and produce a nicely flattened center, but you can use other candies depending on the final look you prefer:

• Hershey’s Kisses (plain) — these tend to retain a more rounded shape and don’t flatten as cleanly.
• Hershey Candy Cane Kisses — become extra melty and may require less oven time.
• Rolos — work well for a caramel-centered version; you can pair Rolos with nuts like pecans for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Chocolate Pretzel Rings with Kisses and M&Ms

These bite-sized treats are fast and simple to assemble. Follow these steps for consistent results:

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange pretzel rings in a single layer. (Do not use wax paper.)
3. Place one Hershey Hug or Kiss in the center of each pretzel.
4. Bake 2–3 minutes, just until the chocolate softens.
5. Remove from the oven and immediately press an M&M into the center, facing the “m” down for a neat appearance. The chocolate may still look peaked, but it will flatten when you press the candy into it.
6. Chill the cookie sheet in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens, about 10–20 minutes.
7. Once set, transfer the pretzel rings to a tin or airtight container and store at room temperature for best texture and appearance.

Notes on the Original Reindeer Noses

The original Reindeer Noses use Hershey’s Kisses and typically keep a rounded, mounded appearance because of a thin wax coating on the candy. If you prefer that classic shape, follow the same steps but avoid overbaking (no more than 3 minutes). An alternate method is to melt Kisses or chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring between short bursts, then spooning the melted chocolate into each pretzel and topping with an M&M before chilling.

Storage Instructions

Store the finished treats in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigeration can cause chocolate to develop white spots (fat bloom) and alter the appearance, so room temperature is recommended unless your environment is very warm.