Treats!

(Top to Bottom: Italian Pretzels, Marshmallow Creme Crispy Treats, Ranch Pretzels)

Here are three quick, easy and inexpensive snacks for the holidays or any time. Most crispy treats call for marshmallows, but this recipe is for those of you who, like me, are more likely to have the marshmallow creme on hand.


Italian Pretzels

1/4 c. butter, melted
1 to 1-1/2 Tablespoons dry spaghetti sauce mix
4 cups miniature pretzel twists or sticks

Place pretzels in microwave-safe dish. Combine melted butter and spaghetti sauce mix. Drizzle butter mixture over pretzels; stir until pretzels are coated.

Microwave on High for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until pretzels are toasted. Cool before serving.

Makes 4 cups.


Ranch Pretzels

1/4 cup oil (I prefer peanut oil or light olive oil)
1-1/2 Tablespoons dry Ranch dressing mix
6 cups of miniature pretzel twists or sticks

Place pretzels in microwave-safe dish. Combine oil and Ranch dressing mix. Drizzle mixture over pretzels; stir until pretzels are coated.

Microwave on High for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until pretzels are toasted. Cool before serving.

Makes 6 cups


Marshmallow Creme Crispy Treats

3 Tablespoons butter
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow creme
5 cups crisp rice cereal

Lightly butter a 13 x 9 cake pan or glass dish (or spray with non-stick pan spray). Set aside.

Place butter in large microwave bowl. Microwave on High for 20-30 seconds or until butter is melted.

Add marshmallow creme to butter. Microwave for 1 to 1-1/2 minutes, stirring every 15 seconds, until marshmallow creme has melted and is combined well with butter.

Remove bowl from microwave and stir in cereal, all at once. Stir until well-coated, then pour out into prepared pan. Spread mixture firmly and evenly into pan; wearing a disposable kitchen glove or wrapping hand in plastic wrap makes this easier. Allow to cool before cutting into 24 squares.

Makes 24 pieces.