These chocolate-covered marshmallow reindeer are festive, fun, and guaranteed to bring smiles. With shiny chocolate, sweet little faces, and salty pretzel antlers, they’re the perfect holiday treat for parties or a cozy weekend project.

Ingredients for Chocolate-Covered Marshmallow Reindeer

Marshmallows: Use large marshmallows to create the body of each reindeer.
Pretzels: Small pretzels with a traditional loop shape make the best antlers.
Candy Eyes: Regular-sized sugar eyes give each reindeer a playful look.
Red Smarties: These add the perfect Rudolph-style nose.
Milk Chocolate: Melted for dipping. You can use dark chocolate if you prefer.
Lollipop Sticks: Used to hold the reindeer while decorating and serving.

Fun Variations to Try

Peppermint Twist: Add a little peppermint extract to the melted chocolate.
Frosty White Chocolate: Use white chocolate and top with edible glitter.
Creative Antlers: Try candy canes or licorice twists instead of pretzels.
Caramel Surprise: Use caramel-filled marshmallows for a gooey treat inside.
Let Imagination Lead: Play around with decorations and make each reindeer your own.

Keesha’s Tips & Tricks

Chill Before Dipping: Refrigerate the marshmallows for 10–15 minutes before dipping so the chocolate sets faster.
Break Pretzels Gently: Snap them slowly to get clean little antlers.
Stick Before You Dip: It makes the marshmallows easier to hold and decorate.
Decorate While Wet: Add the antlers, eyes, and nose before the chocolate sets.
Use a Drying Station: Use styrofoam or an upside-down egg carton to keep them standing while they dry.
Work in Batches: Dip and decorate a few at a time so the chocolate doesn’t harden too quickly.

Making Marshmallow Reindeer Treats

Let’s get started on these sweet little reindeer. It’s super simple and so much fun!

Skewer the Marshmallows: Grab some large marshmallows and stick a lollipop stick or skewer into each one. That’s your reindeer base!
Dip in Chocolate: Melt your chocolate, then dip each marshmallow until it’s fully coated. Let them dry so they’re ready to decorate.
Add the Face: Once the chocolate sets, stick on candy eyes and a red Smarties nose to give each reindeer its personality.
Attach the Antlers: Break pretzels into antler shapes and gently press them into the top of each reindeer.

What to Serve with Chocolate-Covered Marshmallow Reindeer

Hot Chocolate: Perfect for dipping or sipping alongside these sweet treats.
Milk: A classic match that’s great for kids (and adults, too!).
Christmas Snack Board: Mix them in with popcorn, candy canes, and fudge for a festive platter.

Storing Tips

Let the reindeer dry fully, then pop them into an airtight container with wax or parchment paper between layers. Keep them in a cool, dry spot or the fridge if it’s warm out. For the best flavor, let them come to room temperature before serving. They’re best enjoyed within a week while they’re fresh and tasty!

FAQs about Chocolate-Covered Marshmallow Reindeer

I like to twist the marshmallow gently as I dip it in the chocolate instead of just dunking straight down. This helps coat it evenly and keeps the marshmallow from wobbling on the stick. After dipping, gently tap the stick on the side of the bowl to shake off any extra chocolate. It gives you a cleaner, smoother finish.

Make sure to press the pretzels into the chocolate while it’s still soft. If the chocolate sets too quickly, they won’t hold. I usually press them in gently and then hold them for a few seconds so they stay put.

Chill the marshmallows before dipping. They hold up better that way. Also, insert the sticks slowly and firmly, but don’t push all the way through. Let them rest a few minutes on the stick before dipping to help them stay put.

I use a block of styrofoam or an upside-down egg carton with holes poked in the top. It holds the sticks straight up and keeps everything neat while the chocolate sets.

More Dessert Recipes

Check out my other favorite desserts for this Christmas, like Teddy Bears Oreo Pop, Holiday Lofthouse Cookies, or Eggnog Cookies.

Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Reindeer

Keesha

Indulge in the festive spirit with Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Reindeer, a delightful holiday treat. These whimsical creations feature soft marshmallows enrobed in rich chocolate, adorned with pretzel antlers and candy faces.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 4

Total Time 34

Course Dessert

Cuisine International

Servings

Calories 173 kcal

Equipment

Lollipop sticks
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Parchment Paper

Ingredients

1 bag of large marshmallows
1 bag of traditional loop-shaped pretzels (for antlers)
12 ounces Milk or dark chocolate bars (amount varies based on preference)
Regular-sized sugar eyes
Red Smarties chocolates (for noses)

Instructions

Start by arranging your ingredients ,marshmallows, pretzels, sugar eyes, Smarties, and lollipop sticks ,on a clean working surface. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper for placing the dipped marshmallows.
Then gently insert a lollipop stick into each marshmallow, pushing it halfway through. Ensure it's secure but doesn't poke through the other side.
Next, break the chocolate bars into smaller pieces and melt them. You can use a double boiler or microwave them in intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the marshmallow on the parchment paper.
Allow the chocolate to cool and set slightly but not completely harden. This is the ideal time to add the facial features and antlers.

Creating The Marshmallow Reindeer

Attach two sugar eyes and a Smarties nose to each marshmallow to create the reindeer's face.
Break the pretzels into antler shapes and gently press them into the top of each marshmallow.
Allow the chocolate to completely harden. This can be expedited by placing the marshmallows in the refrigerator for a few minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 173kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 18mgPotassium: 144mgFiber: 2gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 0.001mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 2mg

Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!