Bugle Santa Hats Recipe
Introduction
These festive Bugle Santa Hats are a fun and easy holiday treat that combines crunchy corn snacks with colorful candy melts and marshmallows. Perfect for parties or gift-giving, they bring a cheerful twist to your snack lineup.

Ingredients
- 14 ½ ounces Bugles corn snacks
- 12 ounces red candy melts
- 6 ounces white candy melts
- ¼ cup white nonpareils
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the red candy melts in a microwavable bowl at half power for 45 seconds. Remove from the microwave and stir well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the candy is fully melted and smooth.
- Step 2: Dip each Bugle corn snack into the melted red candy, coating it completely. Place the coated Bugles on parchment paper and let them set fully.
- Step 3: Pour the white nonpareils into a small bowl. Melt the white candy melts according to package instructions. Dip the bottom end of each set red Bugle into the melted white candy and immediately then into the white nonpareils.
- Step 4: Dip the tip of the Bugle into the melted white candy again and press a mini marshmallow onto the tip to form the hat’s pom-pom. Return the decorated Bugles to the parchment paper and allow them to set completely before serving or storing.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality candy melts for a smooth coating and vibrant color.
- To speed up setting, place the Bugles in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
- For added flavor, try dipping the marshmallow tip lightly in melted chocolate before placing it on the Bugle.
Storage
Store the Bugle Santa Hats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigerating if possible, as moisture can soften the corn snacks. If needed, reheat briefly in a low oven to crisp them before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of snack instead of Bugles?
Yes, other cone-shaped snacks can work, but Bugles are ideal due to their shape and sturdiness for dipping and decorating.
What can I substitute for the white nonpareils?
If you don’t have white nonpareils, you can use white sanding sugar or finely shredded coconut for added texture and festive appearance.
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Bugle Santa Hats Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 50 Bugle Santa Hats 1x
Description
Bugle Santa Hats are a festive holiday treat that transforms crunchy Bugles corn snacks into adorable Santa hats using melted candy melts, white nonpareils, and mini marshmallows. This quick and easy no-bake recipe is perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings, combining sweet and crunchy textures in a fun, whimsical presentation.
Ingredients
Snacks and Decorations
- 14 ½ ounces Bugles corn snacks
- ¼ cup white nonpareils
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows
Candy Coating
- 12 ounces red candy melts
- 6 ounces white candy melts
Instructions
- Melt the Red Candy Melts: Place the red candy melts in a microwavable bowl and heat at half power for 45 seconds. Remove and stir thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency. Continue to microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Coat the Bugles: Dip each Bugle corn snack carefully into the melted red candy, making sure it is evenly coated to resemble the red part of a Santa hat. Set each coated Bugle on parchment paper and allow the candy to set completely before moving to the next step.
- Prepare the White Trim: Pour the white nonpareils into a small bowl. Melt the white candy melts according to their package instructions until smooth. Dip the bottom of each red-coated Bugle into the white candy melt, then immediately dip the coated edge into the white nonpareils to create the hat’s trim.
- Add the Marshmallow Pom-Pom: Dip the tip of each Bugle into the white candy melts again. Press a mini marshmallow onto the tip as the pom-pom of the Santa hat. Place each completed Bugle on parchment paper to set fully before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking while setting.
- Work quickly with candy melts as they harden fast once melted.
- If candy melts begin to harden while working, gently reheat to maintain smoothness.
- Store finished Bugle Santa Hats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday snacks, Christmas treats, Bugles recipe, candy melts, festive snacks, mini marshmallow treats, no-bake dessert

