Pecan Swirl Reindeer Rolls – Adorable, No-Bake Holiday Fun!

We’ve got a new reindeer obsession, and this one might be even easier (and cuter?) than cupcakes! Say hello to our pecan swirl reindeer rolls—a totally no-bake, totally adorable holiday snack made with those little round pecan pastries you find in the grocery store.

These are seriously the fastest way to make reindeer magic—just add candy eyes, pretzel antlers, and a red M&M nose, and boom! Instant holiday cheer. We used a little vanilla frosting from a tub as edible glue, and it worked like a charm.

This is one of those treats that’s just so much fun to make together—and perfect if you’re short on time but still want to bring something festive to the table (or classroom, or youth group party).

What You’ll Need for Our Pecan Swirl Reindeer Rolls

• 1 package of pecan swirl pastries (the small, pre-packaged kind in the bakery aisle)
• Mini twist pretzels (for antlers)
• Candy eyes
• Red M&Ms (or any red candy for the nose)
• Vanilla frosting (from a tub – you’ll only need a little)

Assembly Tips from Our Kitchen Crew

• Use a toothpick or butter knife to dab small dots of vanilla frosting on the pastry for “glue.”
• Gently press the pretzel antlers into the top of the swirl—if they’re not sticking right away, add a little extra frosting and hold for a few seconds.
• Place the candy eyes just above the center, and the M&M nose right in the middle swirl.
• If you’re using full-size M&Ms, they might slip a little—mini M&Ms or gumdrops can work too!

Storage + Party Tips for Pecan Swirl Reindeer Treats

These are best made the day you plan to serve them, but here are some ways to keep them cute and party-ready:

• Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1–2 days.
• If you’re traveling with them, line a container with wax or parchment paper so they don’t stick.
• Add some festive paper liners or mini cupcake papers to separate each one—they look cute AND keep them from bumping around.

Kid-Approved & Easy-Peasy

This treat is seriously tween kitchen gold. We each grabbed a plate and turned it into a mini reindeer decorating station—Harper and Norah were all about the eye placement drama, and we had to vote on the “most expressive reindeer face.” Spoiler: the one with the sideways antler won.

Whether you need something quick for a party, an after-school snack with holiday flair, or a baking activity that’s zero stress and all fun—these pecan swirl reindeer rolls are it. They’re sweet, silly, and a total hit with friends and family! Be sure to check out some of our other cute holiday treats: melting snowman cupcakes, Grinch Oreo balls, and reindeer pretzel sticks!