Reese’s Filled Pretzels: 5 Deliciously Unexpected Recipes
Reese’s has done it again! They’ve taken two beloved snacks, pretzels and peanut butter cups, and combined them into one irresistible treat: Reese’s Filled Pretzels. These bite-sized snacks are perfectly poppable and packed with the iconic Reese’s flavor combination of salty pretzel, creamy peanut butter, and sweet milk chocolate (or white creme!). While they’re delicious straight from the bag, why not elevate your snacking game and incorporate them into some creative and delicious recipes? Get ready to explore five unexpectedly amazing ways to use Reese’s Filled Pretzels in your kitchen.
Why Reese’s Filled Pretzels Are the Perfect Recipe Ingredient
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore why Reese’s Filled Pretzels are such a fantastic ingredient for both sweet and salty creations:
* **Texture:** The combination of crunchy pretzel, smooth peanut butter filling, and chocolate coating provides a delightful textural experience. This makes them a great addition to recipes where you want to add contrasting textures.
* **Flavor:** The signature Reese’s flavor profile is a crowd-pleaser. The salty pretzel complements the sweet and creamy peanut butter, creating a balanced and addictive taste.
* **Convenience:** These pretzels are ready-made and easy to use. No need to spend time making your own peanut butter cups or pretzels – they’re all in one convenient package.
* **Versatility:** Reese’s Filled Pretzels can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from desserts to appetizers and even savory dishes.
* **Fun:** Let’s face it – they’re just fun to eat! Adding them to a recipe instantly makes it more playful and appealing.
Recipe 1: Reese’s Filled Pretzel Bark
This bark is incredibly easy to make and is a guaranteed hit for parties, holidays, or just a special treat for yourself. The combination of chocolate, pretzels, and other toppings creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, or white chocolate – your choice!)
* 1 cup Reese’s Filled Pretzels, roughly chopped
* 1/2 cup mini pretzels, crushed
* 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces
* 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
* Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a thin layer using a spatula or spoon. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. **Add the Toppings:** Immediately sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Filled Pretzels, crushed mini pretzels, Reese’s Pieces, and chopped peanuts (if using) evenly over the melted chocolate. Gently press the toppings into the chocolate to help them adhere.
4. **Add Sprinkles:** If desired, sprinkle sprinkles over the bark for added color and decoration.
5. **Chill and Break:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
6. **Break into Pieces:** Once the bark is set, remove it from the refrigerator and break it into irregular pieces using your hands or a knife.
7. **Serve and Store:** Serve the Reese’s Filled Pretzel Bark immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Variety:** Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a combination of chocolates.
* **Nut Butters:** Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter, almond butter, or any other nut butter into the melted chocolate before adding the toppings.
* **Other Candies:** Add other candies, such as M&Ms, chopped candy bars, or toffee bits, to customize the bark to your liking.
* **Salty-Sweet:** For a more intense salty-sweet flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the bark before chilling.
* **Festive:** Use holiday-themed sprinkles and candies to make this bark perfect for any occasion.
Recipe 2: Reese’s Filled Pretzel Blondies
These blondies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie bar. The addition of Reese’s Filled Pretzels adds a salty-sweet crunch that takes them to the next level. They are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 cup Reese’s Filled Pretzels, roughly chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Fold in Pretzels:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Filled Pretzels.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
9. **Serve and Store:** Serve the Reese’s Filled Pretzel Blondies immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter into the batter before baking for an even more intense peanut butter flavor.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet) to the batter for extra chocolate goodness.
* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or peanuts) to the batter for added crunch.
* **Salted Caramel:** Drizzle the baked blondies with salted caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
* **Brown Butter:** Use brown butter instead of melted butter for a richer, more complex flavor. To brown butter, cook the butter over medium heat in a saucepan until it melts and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn the butter.
Recipe 3: Reese’s Filled Pretzel Popcorn Balls
These popcorn balls are a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack. The combination of crunchy popcorn, sweet caramel, and salty-sweet Reese’s Filled Pretzels creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn (air-popped is best)
* 1 cup Reese’s Filled Pretzels, roughly chopped
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup light corn syrup
* 1/4 cup water
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Popcorn and Pretzels:** Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Add the chopped Reese’s Filled Pretzels and toss to combine.
2. **Make Caramel Sauce:** In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. **Cook Caramel to Hard-Ball Stage:** Continue to cook the caramel without stirring, until it reaches the hard-ball stage (250-265°F or 121-129°C on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into a cup of cold water. If it forms a hard, brittle ball, it’s ready.
4. **Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:** Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Pour Caramel Over Popcorn:** Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and pretzel mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss everything together until the popcorn and pretzels are evenly coated.
6. **Form Popcorn Balls:** Let the mixture cool slightly until it’s cool enough to handle. Grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Using your hands, quickly form the popcorn mixture into balls.
7. **Cool and Set:** Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone mat. Let them cool completely and set before serving.
8. **Serve and Store:** Serve immediately or store the popcorn balls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Mini Marshmallows:** Add 1 cup of mini marshmallows to the popcorn and pretzel mixture for a softer, chewier texture.
* **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle the cooled popcorn balls with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
* **Sprinkles:** Roll the popcorn balls in sprinkles before they set for a festive look.
* **Nut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or other nut butter to the caramel sauce for added flavor.
* **Caramel Flavoring:** Add a teaspoon of caramel flavoring to the caramel sauce to enhance the caramel taste.
Recipe 4: Reese’s Filled Pretzel Trail Mix
This trail mix is a perfect snack for hiking, road trips, or anytime you need a quick and energy-boosting bite. The combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy ingredients will keep you satisfied and energized.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Reese’s Filled Pretzels
* 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts, walnuts)
* 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins
* 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
* 1 cup pretzels (mini or regular), broken into pieces
* 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients: Reese’s Filled Pretzels, mixed nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, chocolate chips, pretzels, and sunflower seeds (if using).
2. **Toss to Combine:** Toss all the ingredients together until evenly distributed.
3. **Store:** Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Seeds:** Add other seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or flax seeds, for added nutrition.
* **Dried Fruit:** Experiment with different dried fruits, such as apricots, mangoes, or cherries.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Coconut Flakes:** Add unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
* **Wasabi Peas:** Add wasabi peas for a spicy kick.
Recipe 5: Reese’s Filled Pretzel Ice Cream Topping
Elevate your ice cream sundae with this simple yet decadent topping. The combination of crunchy pretzels and Reese’s flavor makes any scoop of ice cream extra special. It’s also great on yogurt, waffles, or pancakes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Reese’s Filled Pretzels, coarsely crushed
* Optional toppings: Chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush the Pretzels:** Place the Reese’s Filled Pretzels in a resealable plastic bag. Use a rolling pin or a heavy object to crush the pretzels into coarse pieces. You can also use a food processor, but be careful not to over-process them into powder.
2. **Assemble Your Sundae:** Scoop your favorite ice cream into a bowl or cone.
3. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the crushed Reese’s Filled Pretzels generously over the ice cream. Add any other desired toppings, such as chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, or chopped nuts.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the ice cream sundae immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pretzel Dust:** For a finer topping, pulse the Reese’s Filled Pretzels in a food processor until they are finely ground.
* **Caramelized Pretzels:** Toast the crushed pretzels in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until they are lightly caramelized. This will enhance their flavor and add a slightly nutty taste.
* **Chocolate-Covered Pretzels:** Dip the crushed pretzels in melted chocolate and let them set before using them as a topping. This will add an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
* **Spiced Pretzels:** Toss the crushed pretzels with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper for a warm and spicy kick.
* **Sweet and Salty Mix:** Combine the crushed Reese’s Filled Pretzels with other sweet and salty toppings, such as crushed potato chips, salted caramel sauce, or pretzels, for a more complex flavor.
Storage Tips for Reese’s Filled Pretzels (and Your Creations!)
To ensure your Reese’s Filled Pretzels stay fresh and delicious, and to properly store your culinary creations made with them, follow these guidelines:
* **Unopened Bags:** Store unopened bags of Reese’s Filled Pretzels in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They should maintain their quality for several months when stored properly. Check the expiration date on the packaging for specific information.
* **Opened Bags:** Once opened, reseal the bag tightly or transfer the pretzels to an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale. Exposure to air can cause them to lose their crunch.
* **Reese’s Filled Pretzel Bark:** Store Reese’s Filled Pretzel Bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will help maintain its firmness and prevent the chocolate from melting.
* **Reese’s Filled Pretzel Blondies:** Store Reese’s Filled Pretzel Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for longer storage, but they may become slightly drier.
* **Reese’s Filled Pretzel Popcorn Balls:** Store Reese’s Filled Pretzel Popcorn Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store them individually wrapped to prevent them from sticking together.
* **Reese’s Filled Pretzel Trail Mix:** Store Reese’s Filled Pretzel Trail Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month. This will help maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the ingredients.
* **Reese’s Filled Pretzel Ice Cream Topping:** Store crushed Reese’s Filled Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature. If you are using caramelized or chocolate-covered pretzels, store them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the refrigerator to prevent them from sticking together.
Beyond the Recipes: Creative Serving Suggestions
While these recipes are a great starting point, don’t be afraid to get creative with how you serve Reese’s Filled Pretzels. Here are a few more ideas to inspire you:
* **Charcuterie Board Addition:** Add a small bowl of Reese’s Filled Pretzels to your charcuterie board for a sweet and salty touch that complements cheeses, meats, and crackers.
* **Party Favors:** Package small amounts of Reese’s Filled Pretzels in decorative bags or containers for party favors that guests will love.
* **Lunchbox Treat:** Include a few Reese’s Filled Pretzels in your child’s (or your own!) lunchbox for a fun and satisfying midday treat.
* **Movie Night Snack:** Serve Reese’s Filled Pretzels alongside popcorn and other movie snacks for a sweet and salty movie night experience.
* **Gift Basket Filler:** Add a bag of Reese’s Filled Pretzels to a gift basket for a thoughtful and delicious surprise.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Reese’s Filled Pretzel Craze!
Reese’s Filled Pretzels are more than just a snack; they’re a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and unexpected recipes. From sweet treats like bark and blondies to savory snacks like trail mix and ice cream toppings, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a bag of Reese’s Filled Pretzels and let your creativity soar in the kitchen. You’re sure to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this iconic flavor combination!