Save A festive, sweet-and-savory snack mix featuring gold and black ingredients—perfect for ringing in the New Year with style and crunch.
This mix has become a New Year's Eve tradition in my family, bringing everyone together over a bowl of festive goodness.
Ingredients
- Crunchy Base: 3 cups black cocoa cereal (e.g., Oreo Os or similar), 2 cups mini pretzel twists, 1 cup caramel popcorn
- Gold & Black Accents: 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips, 1/2 cup chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional for adults), 1/2 cup gold candy-coated chocolates (e.g., gold M&Ms), 1/2 cup gold star sprinkles or edible glitter
- Sweet & Savory Coating: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons honey, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black cocoa cereal, pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn.
- Step 3:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey and sea salt until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the snack mix. Toss gently to coat.
- Step 5:
- Spread the coated mix in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fragrant and just beginning to crisp.
- Step 6:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Step 7:
- Once cooled, transfer the mix to a large bowl. Add chocolate chips, chocolate-covered espresso beans, gold candy-coated chocolates, and gold star sprinkles. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 8:
- Serve in bowls or fill festive bags for guests to take home.
Save This treat has brought such joy to our family gatherings, creating memories we cherish every New Year's Eve.
Notes
For a nutty variation add 1/2 cup roasted salted cashews or almonds. Make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pretzels and popcorn. Espresso beans add a sophisticated touch—omit for a kid-friendly version. Pair with sparkling wine or a festive mocktail for a perfect NYE treat.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, small saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories 235 per serving Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 36 g Protein 3 g
Save A perfect mix of flavors and textures to celebrate the New Year with style and crunch.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the snack mix its black color?
The black color comes from the black cocoa cereal, which provides a deep chocolate flavor and striking appearance.
- → Can I make this mix gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free pretzels and popcorn to adapt the mix for gluten-free diets.
- → How do I add extra crunch to the mix?
Adding roasted salted cashews or almonds introduces a nutty crunch that complements the sweet and salty balance.
- → Are the chocolate-covered espresso beans optional?
Yes, they add a rich coffee note suited for adults and can be omitted for a kid-friendly version.
- → What’s the best way to store the snack mix?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and crunch for several days.