Strawberry Pretzel Marshmallow Mix (Printable Version)

A crunchy, sweet mix featuring pretzels, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted marshmallows.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pretzel Base

01 - 2 heaping cups (about 3.5 oz) regular or gluten free pretzels
02 - 6 tablespoons (6 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

→ Marshmallow Mixture

04 - 1/2 cup (4 oz) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing pan
05 - 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows, plus 1 additional cup (optional)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Mix-ins

08 - 2 1/2 cups (2.65 oz) crispy rice cereal, gluten free if needed
09 - 3/4 cup (0.6 oz) freeze-dried strawberries, roughly crushed

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or similar tool. Combine crushed pretzels with melted butter and granulated sugar, then spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
02 - Bake the pretzel mixture for 8 to 10 minutes until deep golden brown. Remove from oven and immediately toss to redistribute butter coating. Let cool and crisp at room temperature.
03 - Generously butter an 8×8-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine crispy rice cereal, freeze-dried strawberries, roasted pretzels, and 1 cup additional mini marshmallows if using.
04 - In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter with the 10 oz bag of mini marshmallows, stirring continuously until smooth and combined. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and salt.
05 - Fold dry ingredients into the melted marshmallow mixture, coating evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer using greased hands or a nonstick spatula.
06 - Allow to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour until set. Slice into squares and serve.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Using gluten free pretzels and cereal makes this treat suitable for gluten sensitive individuals.