Description
Halloween Monster Eyeballs are a fun and spooky treat that’s perfect for any Halloween celebration. These bite-sized snacks combine the salty crunch of waffle pretzels with the sweet creaminess of Hershey Hugs, topped off with colorful M&M’s and a touch of red sanding sugar for a creepy bloodshot effect. A small dab of black decorating gel turns these into convincing monster eyeballs that are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. They’re easy to make, visually striking, and delicious—perfect for adding a bit of frightful fun to your Halloween party.
Ingredients
Scale
- 35 waffle pretzels
- 35 Hershey Hugs (do not use Kisses, as they don’t melt as well)
- Red sanding sugar
- 35 M&M’s
- Black decorating gel
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature allows the Hershey Hugs to soften just right without melting too much or burning.
- Arranging the Pretzels on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Arrange the waffle pretzels in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Melting the Hershey Hugs: Place one Hershey Hug on top of each pretzel. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully. The Hugs should be soft and shiny, not fully melted.
- Adding the Sanding Sugar and M&M’s: Quickly remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately sprinkle red sanding sugar over the softened Hugs, then press an M&M into the center of each one, “M” side down.
- Decorating with Black Gel: Once the M&M’s are in place, use a small amount of black decorating gel to create a pupil in the center of each M&M. Be careful not to use too much gel to avoid smudging.
- Setting in the Freezer: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour to allow the treats to fully set. This step ensures the chocolate hardens properly and the toppings stay in place.
Notes
- Substitutions: You can use different flavors of Hershey Hugs, or experiment with other chocolates, but be mindful of their melting properties. If you don’t have sanding sugar, consider using colored sprinkles or edible glitter for a similar effect.
- Storage: These treats can be made up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place, or in the refrigerator if your environment is warm. Ensure they are well-sealed to maintain freshness and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the colors and toppings to fit other holidays or personal preferences. These treats can easily be adapted for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any themed party with a simple change of colors and decorations.