When it comes to holiday treats, we all want something that’s quick, easy, festive, and totally addictive. Enter Christmas Trash, also affectionately known as Reindeer Crack. It’s not the most elegant name, but once you taste it, you’ll understand why people go absolutely wild for this stuff. Sweet, salty, crunchy, creamy—this bark is like the holiday season in snack form.
And the best part? It’s completely no-bake, uses just a few simple ingredients, and looks like it came straight out of a Pinterest board. Whether you’re making it for a cookie swap, gifting it in cute bags, or sneaking bites between wrapping presents, this is the treat that disappears faster than you can say ‘ho ho ho’.
🍬 What Is Christmas Trash (aka Reindeer Crack)?
Christmas Trash is a sweet and salty holiday bark made by layering crunchy pretzel pieces with melted milk and white chocolate, then sprinkling on festive toppings like M&M’s, white chocolate stars, and crushed peppermint candies. Once it’s chilled and hardened, you break it into rustic chunks that are as satisfying to look at as they are to eat.
Why is it called “trash”? Not because it belongs in the bin—far from it. It’s called that because it’s a mishmash of all kinds of goodies, tossed together like snack mix and stuck in bark form. And “Reindeer Crack”? That’s just a cheeky nod to how utterly addictive it is. Seriously—don’t expect leftovers.
🎄 Why This Recipe Is a Must-Make This Holiday Season
You know those holiday recipes that feel like a lot of work for just a small amount of joy? This is not that. This treat checks every single box:
- ✅ No oven required (hallelujah!)
- ✅ Ready in under 40 minutes
- ✅ Perfect balance of flavors
- ✅ Kid- and party-approved
- ✅ Makes a beautiful gift
- ✅ Customize it however you like
It’s a lifesaver during the chaos of December. One tray of this and you’ve got snacks for a party, gifts for your neighbors, and a treat stash that’ll satisfy every craving. Let’s break it down.
🛒 Ingredient Breakdown and Why Each One Matters
This recipe is so simple, but every ingredient plays a role in that magic crunch and festive look. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
🥨 Pretzels – 3 Cups
Broken into smaller chunks, these give the bark its crunch and salty contrast. You can use mini twists or sticks, just don’t grind them up too much—you want that texture.
🍫 Milk Chocolate Chips – 1½ Cups
This is your base layer of creamy, melty goodness. It sticks everything together and balances the saltiness of the pretzels. Choose good-quality chips—they really make a difference.
🍥 White Chocolate Chips – 1 Cup
These go on after the milk chocolate and create that beautiful marbled swirl. Plus, they add extra sweetness and hold on to your toppings.
🍬 Red & Green M&M’s – ¾ Cup
M&M’s are the festive jewels on top. They add color, crunch, and a pop of chocolate. Stick with the holiday colors for that Christmas feel.
🌟 White Chocolate Stars – ½ Cup
The star of the show (literally). They make your bark look fancy and taste amazing. Can’t find stars? Use white chocolate chunks or holiday-shaped candies.
🎄 Crushed Peppermint – ¼ Cup
Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies bring in that cool minty flavor that screams December. They also add sparkle and texture.
✨ Optional Add-Ins
- Holiday sprinkles
- Flaky sea salt
- Crushed cookies
- Mini marshmallows
🔧 Tools You’ll Need (You Already Have These!)
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- 2 microwave-safe bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Fridge or freezer space
That’s it. No stovetop, no mixer, no candy thermometer. Just melt, layer, and chill.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions with Detailed Tips
1️⃣ Prep Your Tray
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift and break the bark later.
2️⃣ Lay Down the Pretzels
Spread your pretzel chunks across the sheet in an even layer. Don’t pile them—give them room to breathe so chocolate can flow between.
3️⃣ Melt the Milk Chocolate
Microwave milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth. Usually takes 90 seconds to 2 minutes max.
4️⃣ Drizzle and Toss
Pour the melted milk chocolate over the pretzels. Use a spoon or spatula to lightly toss the pretzels so they’re mostly coated, but not drowned. Leave some pretzels peeking through for that crunchy contrast.
5️⃣ Melt the White Chocolate
Same process: short bursts in the microwave, stir until smooth. Be extra careful—white chocolate burns easily.
6️⃣ Swirl That White Chocolate
Drizzle the white chocolate over the pretzels in zig-zags. Don’t stir it in. Let it sit on top to create a pretty marbled look.
7️⃣ Decorate Like a Holiday Elf
Before the chocolate hardens, scatter on:
- Red & green M&M’s
- White chocolate stars
- Crushed peppermint
- Sprinkles or sea salt (if using)
You want every bite to have a bit of everything.
8️⃣ Chill It Out
Pop the tray into the fridge for 20–30 minutes (or freezer for 15 if you’re impatient). You’ll know it’s ready when the chocolate is firm to the touch.
9️⃣ Break Into Pieces
Lift the bark out of the tray using the parchment. Use your hands to break it into large, rustic chunks. Don’t cut it—this treat looks best messy!
💡 Expert Tips for Getting It Just Right
Want your Christmas Trash to look like it came from a gourmet candy shop? These tips will help you get that perfect texture, look, and flavor:
✨ Don’t Overmix the Swirl
Once the white chocolate is drizzled over the milk chocolate layer, resist the urge to stir it around. That marbled effect is part of the charm! Overmixing will just make a beige blob.
🕒 Chill Time Matters
Make sure you chill the bark long enough for the chocolate to fully harden. If it’s still soft when you try to break it, it’ll smear and won’t snap. The fridge is best because the freezer can sometimes create condensation when thawed.
🍫 Use Quality Chocolate
This recipe is all about simplicity, so ingredients matter. If your chocolate chips don’t taste good on their own, they won’t magically taste better in bark. Go for Ghirardelli, Guittard, or any good-quality baking chocolate you love.
🔁 Double the Batch
Trust us—this disappears fast. If you’re bringing it to a party or gifting it, double (or triple) the recipe. It stores beautifully and keeps everyone coming back for more.
📦 How to Store and Keep It Fresh
At Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 4 days. Perfect if you’re serving it at a party or giving it as a gift.
In the Fridge
If your home runs warm (hello, Christmas ovens!), stash it in the fridge. It’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to 2 weeks. Just let it come to room temp before serving for best flavor.
In the Freezer
Yes, you can freeze Christmas Trash! Place it in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter before eating.
🎨 Creative Ways to Customize Your Christmas Trash
The best part about this recipe? You can make it your own. Think of it like a blank canvas for your holiday snacking dreams.
🍭 Candy Alternatives
- Reese’s Pieces (for a peanut butter twist)
- Mini peanut butter cups
- Crushed Oreos
- Chopped peppermint bark
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans (grown-up version!)
🥜 Make It Nutty
Add a handful of:
- Toasted almonds
- Roasted peanuts
- Chopped pecans
- Cashew halves
Nuts give a great crunch and protein boost, too.
🍿 Add Cereal or Popcorn
Want extra volume and texture? Try adding:
- Rice Krispies
- Cornflakes
- Salted popcorn
- Golden Grahams
They soak up the chocolate and add that light, airy crunch.
🍫 Try a Dark Chocolate Twist
Substitute dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate to cut some sweetness. It pairs beautifully with peppermint and pretzels.
Print
🎄 Christmas Trash (Sweet & Salty Holiday Bark) – The Ultimate Reindeer Crack Recipe ❤️💚
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Holiday Desserts / No-Bake Treats / Sweet & Salty Snacks
Description
🎄✨ This is the kind of holiday treat that vanishes faster than you can refill the platter. Crunchy pretzels wrapped in silky chocolate, pops of peppermint, and those cheerful red-and-green candies make every bite feel like Christmas magic. Sweet, salty, and irresistibly festive — the kind of snack everyone sneaks “just one more” piece of. ❤️💚🍫
Ingredients
3 cups pretzel sticks or twists, broken into chunks
1½ cups milk chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
¾ cup red and green M&M’s
½ cup white chocolate stars or chunks
¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Optional: holiday sprinkles or flaky sea salt
Instructions
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to create the perfect base. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
Spread the pretzel pieces evenly across the prepared tray, making sure they’re well distributed. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
Melt the milk chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy. (⏱️ 3 minutes)
Pour the melted milk chocolate over the pretzels and gently toss to coat. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
Melt the white chocolate the same way, stirring until silky. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
Drizzle the white chocolate over the tray, keeping a marbled look by not overmixing. (⏱️ 1 minute)
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle on M&M’s, white chocolate stars, crushed peppermint, and any optional toppings. (⏱️ 3 minutes)
Refrigerate until fully set and firm. (⏱️ 20–30 minutes)
Break into rustic clusters and serve or package for gifting. (⏱️ 2 minutes)
Notes
This recipe is perfect for busy holiday days when the oven is already full — no baking needed at all.
The sweet–salty balance makes it incredibly addictive; it’s one of those treats people keep reaching for without realizing it.
Easy to customize with different chocolates, candies, or leftover holiday sprinkles you already have on hand.
Great for gifting — it looks festive, travels well, and holds its crunch when stored in an airtight container.
A wonderful recipe to make with kids, since decorating the chocolate while it’s still warm feels like pure holiday fun.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12–15 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal
🎁 Perfect for Gifting: Easy, Budget-Friendly, and Loved by All
Forget overpriced gift baskets—this is the holiday gift everyone actually wants. Package your homemade Christmas Trash in:
- Cellophane bags tied with red and green ribbon
- Festive cookie tins
- Mason jars with a cute handwritten tag
- Small holiday boxes with tissue paper
Pro tip: Add a tag that says “Homemade Reindeer Crack – Warning: Addictive!” 🎅
You may like also :
🎄 Christmas Red & Green Puppy Chow – A Festive Holiday Treat Everyone Will Love! ❤️💚
Cool Whip Christmas Crinkle Cookies – A Festive Treat Straight from the Heart🎄
🎉 Serving Ideas for Holiday Parties
Christmas Trash is a party MVP. Serve it:
- On a dessert tray next to cookies and fudge
- In small paper cups as individual servings
- In a large holiday bowl with a scoop spoon
- As part of a hot chocolate bar topping station
Pair with hot cocoa, eggnog, or mulled wine for a cozy treat everyone will love.
👨👩👧👦 Making It a Family Activity: Get the Kids Involved
Kids love this recipe because it’s fun, hands-on, and sweet! Let them:
- Break the pretzels
- Stir the chocolate
- Sprinkle on toppings
- Choose their own add-ins
You can even turn it into a holiday tradition—“Christmas Bark Night” with movies, cocoa, and messy fingers.
📊 Nutrition Information and Serving Size
While this treat isn’t exactly “light,” it’s the holidays—live a little!
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (about ⅓ cup chunk):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sugar | 19g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Protein | 2g |
Moderation is key, but good luck sticking to one serving 😄
😂 Why Is It Called “Christmas Trash” or “Reindeer Crack”?
Let’s clear the air—“trash” is just slang for a mixed snack or bark made with a bunch of different goodies. It’s like “white trash snack mix” or “trail mix bark.” Everything gets tossed together like a joyful, edible mess.
As for “Reindeer Crack”? That’s what happens when something is so ridiculously addictive you keep sneaking back for more. You’ll break off a chunk thinking “just one more…” until half the tray’s mysteriously gone. Must’ve been the reindeer, right? 🦌😉
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even an easy recipe can go sideways without a few pro tips. Here’s what not to do:
- Microwave chocolate too long – Always melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Overmix the layers – Don’t swirl milk and white chocolate together too much or it’ll look muddy.
- Wait too long to decorate – Sprinkle toppings while chocolate is still warm so they stick.
- Skip parchment paper – Trust us. Bark loves to stick.
- Use low-quality chocolate – The flavor starts here. Use something you’d enjoy eating on its own.
🎄 Conclusion: Sweet, Salty, Simple Joy for the Holidays
If you’re only making one holiday treat this year, make it Christmas Trash. It’s the perfect combo of festive, easy, and insanely delicious. The kind of snack that gets you into the holiday spirit with every bite. Whether you’re gifting it, snacking with family, or laying it out at your next party, it’s guaranteed to disappear.
So grab your pretzels, melt that chocolate, and let the magic happen. This no-bake bark is what December dreams are made of—simple, sweet, salty joy in every colorful bite.
Similar recipes :
White Chocolate Christmas Puffcorn Munch – A Holiday Classic in the Making
White Chocolate Christmas Chex Mix: The Ultimate Festive Treat
Butter Pecan Cookies 🍪 – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet!
❓5 Unique FAQs
1. Can I use almond bark instead of chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Almond bark melts beautifully and sets quickly. It’s a great alternative if you’re in a rush.
2. What can I substitute for pretzels?
Try using salted crackers (like mini Ritz or saltines), popcorn, or broken graham crackers for a fun twist.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Make it up to 2 weeks ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and crunchy.
4. Can I use food coloring in white chocolate for fun colors?
Yes, but make sure it’s oil-based coloring or made specifically for chocolate. Water-based colors will cause it to seize.
5. What’s the best way to crush peppermint?
Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and smash with a rolling pin or the bottom of a cup. Instant peppermint dust!
