Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats Recipe
Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats are an irresistible snack that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and fruity flavors with a delightful crunch and gooey marshmallow texture. These treats combine the crunch of pretzels and crispy rice cereal with the burst of freeze dried strawberries, all wrapped up in a luscious marshmallow coating. Whether you’re making them for a festive party, a family dessert, or just a cozy day at home, these Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats bring smiles with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, providing texture, flavor, and that tantalizing mix of sweet and salty that makes this dessert so special. Each element plays its part, from the crunchy pretzels to the fruity freeze dried strawberries, creating a harmonious bite that’s hard to resist.
- Pretzels (2 heaping cups / ~100g): Crushing them just right gives the perfect salty crunch to contrast the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (6 tbsp melted + 1/2 cup for melting): Butter enriches and binds the flavors while adding creamy smoothness.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle sweetness to the pretzel base and helps create a crispy finish.
- Mini marshmallows (1 bag / 285g + 1 cup optional): These melt beautifully and provide gooey, chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the marshmallow mixture.
- Kosher salt (1/4 tsp): Just enough salt to brighten all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Crispy rice cereal (2 1/2 cups / 75g): Adds lightness and crunch, complementing the dense marshmallow coating.
- Freeze dried strawberries (3/4 cup / 18g): These bring a burst of concentrated strawberry flavor and a lovely pop of color.
- Butter for coating pan: Prevents sticking and helps with easy removal of the treats.
How to Make Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Step 1: Prep the Pretzel Base
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Crush the pretzels using a zip-top bag and a rolling pin until you have a mixture of small pieces and crumbs. Toss the crushed pretzels with melted butter and granulated sugar, then spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the pretzels turn a deep golden brown. This roasting step intensifies the pretzel flavor and makes them extra crunchy. Once out of the oven, toss the pretzels gently to redistribute the buttery coating and let them cool until crisp.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
While the pretzels cool, generously butter an 8×8-inch baking pan to ensure the treats don’t stick. This step may seem small but it makes clean slicing and serving much easier later on.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal, the cooled roasted pretzels, freeze dried strawberries, and if you like extra chewy patches, add 1 cup of additional mini marshmallows. This combination creates a colorful and textured base for our marshmallow coating.
Step 4: Make the Marshmallow Mixture
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter with the entire bag of mini marshmallows, stirring continuously so the marshmallows melt smoothly without burning. Once melted and glossy, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and kosher salt for flavor balance.
Step 5: Combine and Set
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the dry ingredients, folding gently but thoroughly so every crunchy piece is coated evenly. Transfer this sticky, fruity, and salty mixture into the prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer. Let it cool at room temperature for about one hour until fully set.
Step 6: Slice and Enjoy
Once cool, slice the slab into 16 squares. These Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats are now ready to dazzle your taste buds with their perfect marriage of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a few crushed freeze dried strawberries or finely chopped pretzels on top for an extra visual pop and crunch. A drizzle of melted chocolate over the squares adds decadence and new layers of flavor that pair beautifully with the fruity strawberry notes.
Side Dishes
These treats shine on their own but for a fun twist, serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a glass of cold milk (or your favorite dairy-free alternative). The creamy beverage helps balance the sweetness and makes for a satisfying snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the treats into festive shapes using cookie cutters or stack them into little towers tied with a colorful ribbon. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper makes them an adorable homemade gift. You can also layer them in a clear jar with other treats for a stunning dessert display that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay perfectly soft yet crunchy for up to 4 days, making them a great make-ahead snack for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these treats in advance or save some for later, you can freeze them. Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy their full gooey goodness.
Reheating
Reheat individual leftovers gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you want to revive that freshly made softness and gooey texture. Just be careful not to melt the marshmallows too much or make them hard, as they are best enjoyed warm but not hot.
FAQs
Can I use regular pretzels instead of gluten free?
Absolutely! Regular pretzels work just as well and add that signature salty crunch. Just be sure to select gluten free pretzels if you have dietary restrictions.
What can I substitute for freeze dried strawberries?
If you can’t find freeze dried strawberries, dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries can work, although the texture and tartness will differ slightly. Fresh strawberries won’t work here as they add too much moisture.
Can I make these treats vegan?
You can! Use vegan butter and marshmallows that are free from gelatin. Just be sure to check all labels for gluten free status if needed, and enjoy a plant-based version of these tasty treats.
Are these treats suitable for making ahead of a party?
Yes, these Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats hold up really well when made a day or two in advance. Just store them airtight, and they will taste fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add chocolate chips in the mix?
Chocolate chips are a tasty addition. Stir them in with the dry ingredients so they melt slightly into the warm marshmallow mix, or sprinkle some on top once pressed into the pan for a pretty finish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fantastic recipe for Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Treats, I encourage you to grab your ingredients and whip up a batch. They’re the perfect blend of fun textures and flavors that bring joy with every bite. Simple to make and so delicious, they’re bound to become a beloved treat for you and everyone around you. Don’t wait to share the magic of these sweet, salty, and fruity delights!
