Introduction to Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe—Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats! This treat is not only an exciting burst of flavor but also a quick solution for those busy days when you want to whip up something special. Imagine surprising your loved ones with these gooey, strawberry-infused delights. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home, perfect for sharing or just indulging in your guilty pleasures!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
One bite of these Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats, and you’ll be hooked! They’re quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy moms or professionals short on time. The combination of crunchy pretzels, fluffy marshmallows, and vibrant strawberries delivers a taste explosion that will impress everyone. Plus, they’re an excellent way to include your kids in the kitchen, turning a simple recipe into a delightful family project!
Ingredients for Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Ready to gather the star players for your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats? This delightful concoction requires some simple yet delicious ingredients. Let’s take a look!
- Pretzels: Regular or gluten-free, these are the crunch that frames the entire treat!
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind everything together. You’ll need this in two different amounts for optimal flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the salty pretzels and enhances the marshmallows’ flavors.
- Mini marshmallows: These little guys provide the gooey texture that makes each bite irresistible.
- Vanilla extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile, making the treat taste extra special.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch brings out all the delicious flavors while cutting through sweetness.
- Crispy rice cereal: This adds a wonderful crunch and helps to lighten the mix.
- Freeze-dried strawberries: These magical morsels bring vibrant color and fruity flavor. Adjust their amount based on how fruity you want your treats.
- Optional mini marshmallows: Extra marshmallows can be folded in for that delightful texture if you can’t get enough!
You can find the exact measurements at the bottom of this article, available for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Let’s dive into the fun part—making your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have an irresistible dessert ready in no time. Don’t worry; I’ll share helpful tips along the way!
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Mixture
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a zip-top bag and fill it with the pretzels. Use a rolling pin to smash them into smaller pieces. Don’t worry about making them uniform; the variety will add character!
In a bowl, mix the crushed pretzels with melted butter and granulated sugar until everything is coated. This mixture will provide that delicious salty-sweet crunch you can’t resist!
Step 2: Bake the Pretzels
Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You want them golden brown—keep an eye on them!
When the time’s up, toss the pretzels on the tray to redistribute the buttery goodness. Let them cool at room temperature, allowing them to crisp up nicely while you prepare the marshmallow mix.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grab a 20cm x 20cm (8×8-inch) baking pan and coat it with a generous amount of butter. This ensures your treats won’t stick.
It’s a little step, but trust me, it makes a world of difference when it’s time to slice and serve!
Step 4: Create the Marshmallow Mix
In a large pot over medium heat, combine the butter and mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until everything melts together into a smooth, gooey mixture.
Remove it from heat, and then stir in that splash of vanilla extract and kosher salt for extra flavor!
Step 5: Fold and Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time for the fun part! In a large bowl, mix together the crispy rice cereal, freeze-dried strawberries, and those glorious roasted pretzels.
Carefully fold the melted marshmallow mixture into this dry blend, ensuring everything gets evenly coated. You might need to use a spatula here to also incorporate those optional mini marshmallows if you want more texture!
Step 6: Cool and Slice Treats
Transfer your delicious mix into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with greased hands or a spatula. This helps the treats hold together once they cool.
Let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. Once set, slice into generous squares or bars. Go ahead, serve these goodness-filled bites and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Tips for Success
- Crush the pretzels thoroughly for even coating; uneven pieces may lead to clumps!
- Don’t rush the cooling process; allowing time will enhance the texture of your treats.
- Use greased hands or a spatula to compress the mixture into the pan without sticking.
- Feel free to customize the amount of freeze-dried strawberries to suit your taste!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: Any large baking sheet will do; parchment paper is key for easy cleanup!
- Zip-top bag: Perfect for crushing pretzels; you can also use a clean kitchen towel.
- Large pot: Essential for melting marshmallows; a Dutch oven works great too!
- Baking pan: An 8×8-inch pan is ideal; you can use a similar-sized dish if needed.
- Spatula: A non-stick spatula facilitates mixing and pressing down your treats.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled treats for a decadent twist!
- Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped pecans or sunflower seeds for a crunchy boost, adding protein and flavor.
- Nut Butter: Mix in a spoonful of your favorite nut butter for a creamy texture and richer taste.
- Different Freeze-Dried Fruits: Swap out freeze-dried strawberries for raspberries, bananas, or blueberries to explore new flavor profiles.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based marshmallows to create vegan-friendly treats.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert duo.
- Serve alongside fresh strawberries for a vibrant presentation and added freshness.
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an elegant touch.
- For a fun party, cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters!
FAQs about Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Can I use different types of pretzels for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you choose regular, gluten-free, or even chocolate-covered pretzels, they’ll all add their unique twist to your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats. Just keep the general idea of crunch and saltiness!
How do I store the Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats?
To keep them fresh, store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week—if they last that long in your home!
Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, you can! These Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats are perfect to make a day in advance. Just slice and store them, and you’ll be ready to impress at any gathering!
What can I substitute for freeze-dried strawberries?
If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t handy, try using mini chocolate chips, diced fresh strawberries, or other freeze-dried fruits. Just remember, fresh fruit can add moisture, so adjust the recipe accordingly.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe contains dairy and gluten; however, you can easily swap for dairy-free butter and gluten-free pretzels to make them friendly for various dietary needs. Happy baking!
Final Thoughts
Making Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats isn’t just about creating a dessert; it’s about mingling flavors and sparking joy in the kitchen. The crunch of pretzels, the sweet creaminess of marshmallows, and the vibrant touch of strawberries dance harmoniously on your palate. Every bite is a delightful surprise, perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a special occasion, these bars bring a smile to faces, including yours! So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family!
Print
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats combining the crunch of pretzels, the softness of marshmallows, and the fruity flavor of strawberries.
Ingredients
- 2 heaping cups (about 100g) regular or gluten free pretzels
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, plus extra for coating pan
- 1 bag (285g) mini marshmallows, plus 1 additional cup (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups (75g) crispy rice cereal, gluten free if needed
- 3/4 cup (18g) freeze dried strawberries, roughly crushed
- Roasted pretzels (prepared above)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or similar object. Transfer crushed pretzels to a bowl and combine with melted butter and granulated sugar. Spread the mixture evenly on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake the pretzel mixture for 8 to 10 minutes or until deep golden brown. Immediately after removing from the oven, toss pretzels on the baking sheet to redistribute the butter coating. Allow pretzels to cool and crisp at room temperature.
- Generously butter the interior of a 20cm x 20cm (8×8-inch) baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal, freeze dried strawberries, roasted pretzels, and 1 cup of additional mini marshmallows if using.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter and the 285g bag of mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Fold the dry mix into the melted marshmallow mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer, using greased hands or a nonstick spatula.
- Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for approximately one hour. Once set, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure to crush the pretzels well for even coating.
- You can adjust the amount of freeze-dried strawberries to taste.
- Optional mini marshmallows can add extra texture if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
