The moment I took my first bite of Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats, I was hooked. Imagine the delightful crunch of buttery pretzels mingling with sweet, gooey marshmallows—the kind of treat that makes you smile wider with every mouthful. These treats are not just a feast for the senses; they capture a perfect balance of sweet and salty that keeps me returning for more.
I discovered this recipe on a particularly lazy Sunday afternoon when I had a few ingredients begging to be used up. With the scent of melting marshmallows and buttery pretzels wafting through the kitchen, my boredom vanished, replaced with sheer excitement.
Best of all, this recipe can come together in just over an hour, making it a fantastic option for a quick snack or even a holiday potluck. It’s incredibly versatile—you can swap in different freeze-dried fruits or add extra crunch with nuts. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this crowd-pleaser will brighten your gatherings and warm your heart. Let’s grab those sweet ingredients and start whipping up a batch!
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
- This recipe is a breeze to make, coming together in just over an hour, which is perfect for a last-minute treat or snack.
- The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a delightful taste that will please everyone from kids to adults.
- With the ability to customize with different freeze-dried fruits or nuts, these treats are incredibly versatile and can adapt to any occasion.
- Plus, the vibrant pink hue from the strawberries makes for an eye-catching dessert that will impress your guests at any gathering.
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats Ingredients
• Get ready to dive into a delicious world of flavors!
For the Base
• Pretzels – 2 heaping cups (about 100g); regular or gluten-free, they provide that irresistible crunch.
• Unsalted Butter – 6 tablespoons (85g), melted; this adds richness and flavor to your base.
• Granulated Sugar – 2 tablespoons (25g); a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the pretzels.
For the Marshmallow Mixture
• Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup (112g), plus extra for coating the pan; use this for a smooth melting process.
• Mini Marshmallows – 1 bag (285g), plus 1 additional cup (optional); they give the treats their chewy texture—don’t skip this!
• Vanilla Extract – 1/2 teaspoon; it elevates the flavor profile of your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats.
• Kosher Salt – 1/4 teaspoon; adds depth to the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
For the Crunch and Color
• Crispy Rice Cereal – 2 1/2 cups (75g); this ingredient gives a light, airy crunch to the treats.
• Freeze Dried Strawberries – 3/4 cup (18g), roughly crushed; they inject a burst of fruity flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
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Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your pretzel base bakes evenly and is easy to remove.
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Crush the pretzels by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin or a similar object. Aim for a mixture of fine and chunky pieces to maintain that delightful texture.
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Combine the crushed pretzels in a bowl with melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir them together until the pretzels are well-coated, creating a savory-sweet base.
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Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on the lined baking sheet. Make sure to press it down gently to create a compact layer that will hold together nicely.
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Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture turns deep golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary!
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Toss the baked pretzel mixture on the sheet immediately after removing it from the oven. This helps redistribute the butter and keeps the mixture flavorful.
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Cool the pretzels at room temperature until they are crisp. This step is crucial to achieving the right texture for your treats.
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Butter the interior of a 20cm x 20cm (8×8-inch) baking pan generously. This will prevent the treats from sticking once set.
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Mix in a large bowl the crispy rice cereal, freeze-dried strawberries, roasted pretzels, and optional mini marshmallows. Toss well to combine all the dry ingredients.
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Melt 1/2 cup of butter and the 285g bag of mini marshmallows in a large pot over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and melted, creating the perfect gooey base.
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Stir in vanilla extract and salt, removing the pot from the heat. These flavors elevate your marshmallow mixture beautifully!
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Fold the dry mixture into the melted marshmallow mixture. Make sure to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring that every bite is deliciously marshmallowy.
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Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer. Take your time to pack it tightly for the best results.
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Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about one hour. This waiting game is worth it, as it helps them set perfectly.
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Slice into squares once set, and serve. Enjoy the satisfied smiles of anyone who takes a bite!
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats?
Building a delightful meal around these treats will elevate any occasion into something special.
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Fresh Berries: Serve a medley of raspberries and blueberries, adding a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast, enhancing the gooey texture of the marshmallow treats.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top creates a decadent indulgence that will delight your taste buds with each bite.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made of seasonal fruits can balance the richness with bright, juicy flavors and invite a burst of freshness.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream makes for a decadent pairing, as it softens the salty bite and adds texture to the experience.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Bright, fizzy lemonade will keep the mood light and festive, cleansing your palate between bites and enhancing the sweet and salty notes.
Imagine a table filled with flavors and textures that harmoniously play together, making your gathering unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Room Temperature: Keep uneaten Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crunch and gooeyness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the fridge in an airtight container where they’ll stay good for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze the treats by cutting them into squares and placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy after freezing, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before munching, or warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these treats with your favorite ingredients for a delightful twist!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the set treats for a rich, decadent finish that takes them to the next level.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in your choice of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to add a delightful crunch and complement the sweet and salty flavors.
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Different Fruits: Swap out freeze-dried strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a fresh flavor spin and vibrant color.
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Maple Twist: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup in the pretzel base to add a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the marshmallow.
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Coconut Delight: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical vibe, giving the treats an extra chewy texture and delightful flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marshmallow mixture for a surprising, spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds!
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Cereal Swap: Experiment with different cereals, like Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles, to change the flavor and add a fun, colorful crunch.
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Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and vegan marshmallows to create a deliciously guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
With these variations, your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats can become a new signature dessert in your kitchen—the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats are a perfect candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the pretzel base and allow it to cool up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, you can mix the crispy rice cereal, freeze-dried strawberries, and optional mini marshmallows ahead of time, keeping them sealed for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish them, simply melt the butter and mini marshmallows, fold in the prepped dry ingredients, and press the mixture into your buttered pan. Let it cool before slicing—this method will save you time and deliver the same delicious treat, just as delightful as when fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats, ensure your pretzels are crushed to a mix of fine and chunky pieces for optimal texture.
- It’s essential to coat the pretzels evenly with butter and sugar to enhance their flavor before baking.
- Pay close attention while baking, as the pretzel mixture should be removed from the oven when it’s a deep golden brown but not burnt, typically around 8 to 10 minutes.
- Allowing the treats to cool completely at room temperature is crucial for them to set properly and achieve that perfect chewy consistency.
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pretzels for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pretzels, look for ones that are sturdy and crispy, as they will provide the best crunch. If you’re opting for gluten-free treats, make sure to select gluten-free pretzels, which are readily available in stores today. Watching for dark spots all over the pretzels can also indicate they’re stale, so pick the freshest bag possible.
What’s the best way to store Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats?
You can keep uneaten Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method helps preserve the crunchy texture. If you want them to last longer, consider storing them in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure to let them sit out for a bit before serving so they regain their full flavor!
Can I freeze Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats?
Of course! To freeze, cut the treats into squares and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving.
What should I do if my pretzel base is too soft?
If your pretzel base turns out too soft, it might be due to underbaking. The key is to check for that golden brown color after about 8 to 10 minutes of baking. If it’s soft, pop it back in the oven for another minute or two, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. Let it cool completely after baking, as this helps the base firm up nicely.
Are there any dietary considerations for these treats?
Definitely! These treats are quite versatile. For those with nut allergies, feel free to skip nuts entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. If you’re cooking for kids or pets, remember to check for any cocoa or chocolate being used, as chocolate can be harmful to pets. Always communicate any known allergies to your guests just to be safe!
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Crush the pretzels by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin.
- Combine the crushed pretzels in a bowl with melted butter and granulated sugar.
- Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on the lined baking sheet, pressing it down gently.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture turns deep golden brown.
- Toss the baked pretzel mixture immediately after removing it from the oven.
- Cool the pretzels at room temperature until they are crisp.
- Butter the interior of a 20cm x 20cm (8×8-inch) baking pan generously.
- Mix in a large bowl the crispy rice cereal, freeze-dried strawberries, roasted pretzels, and optional mini marshmallows.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter and the 285g bag of mini marshmallows in a large pot over medium heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt, removing the pot from the heat.
- Fold the dry mixture into the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer.
- Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about one hour.
- Slice into squares once set, and serve.
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