Rocket Fuel New Years Treats (Printer-Friendly)

Sweet, salty, and spicy bites featuring cream cheese, pecans, cranberries, and jalapeño on pretzel rounds.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 24 salted pretzel rounds or mini crackers
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tbsp honey

→ Topping

04 - 24 roasted pecan halves
05 - 2 tbsp dried cranberries, finely chopped
06 - 1 small jalapeño, finely diced, seeds removed
07 - 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
08 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
09 - Flaky sea salt, to taste

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tbsp hot honey (optional)
11 - Fresh microgreens or parsley (optional)

# Method:

01 - In a small bowl, blend cream cheese and honey until smooth and fluffy.
02 - Lay out pretzel rounds or crackers on a serving platter.
03 - Spread a generous teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each base.
04 - Top each with a roasted pecan half, a sprinkle of chopped cranberries, and a pinch of diced jalapeño.
05 - Sprinkle with smoked paprika, chopped chives, and a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt.
06 - For extra heat and shine, lightly drizzle with hot honey if using.
07 - Garnish with microgreens or parsley if desired. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Sweet, salty, and spicy flavors in every bite
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
02 -
  • For a nut-free version, swap pecans with roasted chickpeas or crunchy pumpkin seeds.
  • Adjust spice by varying the amount of jalapeño or using a milder pepper.
03 -
  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds completely to control the heat level.
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