Adorable Christmas Tree Pretzel Cupcakes for Holiday Parties
Christmas Tree Pretzel Cupcakes are such a fun and festive treat to share during the holidays. They’re easy to make, simple to decorate, and turn out absolutely delicious every time.
Starting with a basic vanilla cupcake, you add fluffy frosting and a snowy layer of shredded coconut. The real star, though, is the pretzel tree—made with green candy melts, colorful mini M&M’s, and a bright sprinkle star on top.
These cupcakes look impressive but come together with just a few steps, making them perfect for both experienced bakers and anyone who just wants to try something playful for the season. I love how they add a touch of whimsy to a holiday table and always spark smiles when served.
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Equipment You Will Need
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Small microwave safe bowl
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Piping bag
- Spoon or small spatula
Christmas Tree Pretzel Cupcakes Recipe
Christmas Tree Pretzel Cupcakes are festive vanilla cupcakes topped with snowy coconut frosting and decorated with pretzel stick trees made of green candy melts. Finished with mini M&M ornaments and star sprinkles, they’re a fun and easy holiday treat that looks as magical as it tastes.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-14 cupcakes
Ingredients
1 (13.25 oz) vanilla cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box
16 oz canned vanilla frosting
12 oz green melting wafers
24–28 pretzel sticks
2 cups shredded coconut
1/2 cup mini M&M’s
12–14 edible star sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions. Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners, divide the batter evenly, and bake as directed. Let cupcakes cool completely.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place two pretzel sticks side by side to form the “trunk” of each tree.
- Melt the green wafers according to package directions.
- Transfer to a piping or zip-top bag. Pipe the melted candy in a zigzag triangle shape over each pair of pretzels, adding extra chocolate where the two pretzels meet to hold them together.
- Decorate with mini M&M’s and a star sprinkle while still wet. Let set until firm.
- Spread vanilla frosting over cooled cupcakes and dip the tops into shredded coconut to resemble snow.
- Once the pretzel trees are completely set, gently press one into the center of each cupcake.
Notes
- Be sure the trees are fully hardened before inserting them into cupcakes.
- Bake time may vary depending on box directions.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sweet Treats
Step-By-Step Process
These Christmas Tree Pretzel Cupcakes are great for classroom parties, family get-togethers, or holiday dessert spreads. They’re simple to carry, enjoyable to decorate with kids, and always bring a festive touch to any gathering.
If you enjoy seasonal desserts that also work as edible décor, this one is a must-make. Be sure to explore more of my party food recipes and sweet treats for added inspiration.
For more creative ideas, check out these Reindeer Brownies and Gingerbread Christmas Snowmen—both vibrant, fun, and guaranteed to please a crowd.
© Little Party Pixie 2025
