Save on Pinterest Fun, festive pretzel bites filled with creamy cheese and topped with a bright cherry red nose—the perfect savory snack for holiday gatherings.
I love making these pretzel bites because they bring a festive spirit to every gathering and always impress guests with their cute look and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- Pretzel Bites: 1 can (340 g / 12 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough, 24 small cubes (about 1 cm each) cream cheese (or cheddar cheese optional), 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted, 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
- Decoration: 24 small round red candies (e.g., mini cherry tomatoes, red M&Ms, or pomegranate seeds for a healthier option), 48 mini pretzel twists (for antlers), 24 mini chocolate chips or edible candy eyes
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide dough:
- Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc.
- Add cheese:
- Place a cheese cube in the center of each disc; pinch the dough around the cheese to seal and roll into a ball.
- Prepare for baking:
- Place the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush and season:
- Brush each ball with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake:
- Bake for 1012 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool:
- Allow to cool slightly.
- Add antlers:
- Press two mini pretzel twists into the top sides of each bite for antlers.
- Add nose:
- Attach a red candy to the front for the red nose (use a dab of cream cheese or melted chocolate as glue if needed).
- Add eyes:
- Add two mini chocolate chips or edible candy eyes above the nose.
Save on Pinterest Making these pretzel bites has become a family tradition that always brings smiles and laughter during holiday celebrations.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, small bowl for melted butter, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (cheese butter), soy (if using chocolate candies). May contain nuts (in candies), eggs (in some doughs). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 85, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 10 g, Protein 2 g per serving
Save on Pinterest 
These pretzel bites are the perfect festive treat that’s easy to prepare and fun to share with loved ones.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What dough works best for the pretzel bites?
Refrigerated biscuit or pizza dough provides a tender, flaky texture that's easy to shape and bake.
- → Can I substitute the cheese filling?
Cream cheese is ideal for creaminess, but cheddar or other soft cheeses can be used for different flavors.
- → How do I make the red nose stick to the bites?
Use a small dab of cream cheese or melted chocolate as edible glue to secure the red candy nose firmly.
- → Are there healthier options for decoration?
Yes, mini cherry tomatoes or pomegranate seeds can replace red candies for a fresh, natural touch.
- → How should the bites be served for best flavor?
Serve them warm to enjoy the melty cheese center and buttery, golden exterior at its best.
- → Can I add spices to the filling?
A pinch of smoked paprika or seasoning can be added to the cheese for a subtle, smoky twist.