Save A crunchy, sweet-and-salty snack mix featuring classic Chex cereals, pretzels, and festive candies—perfect for holiday gatherings and presented in a vibrant red and green bowl cluster.
This mix always brings joy to my family gatherings and is a festive favorite every year.
Ingredients
- Cereals: 3 cups Rice Chex, 3 cups Corn Chex, 2 cups Wheat Chex
- Savory Additions: 1 cup mini pretzels, 1 cup roasted peanuts (optional, or substitute with pumpkin seeds for nut-free)
- Sweet Additions: 1 cup red and green chocolate candies (such as M&Ms), 1 cup white chocolate chips
- Coating: 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp light brown sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and peanuts.
- Mix Coating:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Coat Mix:
- Pour the butter mixture over the dry mix, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake:
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
- Cool and Add Candies:
- Let cool completely, then stir in red and green chocolate candies and white chocolate chips.
- Serve:
- Serve in a festive red and green bowl cluster for holiday flair.
Save This snack mix always brings our family together during the holidays and fills the room with festive cheer.
Notes
Consider adding dried cranberries for an extra festive touch or serving this snack alongside light sparkling wines or holiday punch.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, small mixing bowl, whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk (from chocolate chips), soy (from Worcestershire sauce), and peanuts (if using). Contains possible tree nut traces if candies are processed in shared facilities. Always check labels for allergens if serving to guests with dietary restrictions.
Save This holiday mix is a simple yet delightful treat that adds sparkle to any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cereals are best for this mix?
Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Wheat Chex are used to give a crunchy and diverse texture.
- → Can I substitute peanuts for allergies?
Yes, pumpkin seeds or extra pretzels work well as nut-free alternatives.
- → How do I ensure even toasting?
Stir the snack mix every 15 minutes during the hour-long baking to promote uniform browning.
- → What adds the sweet flavor to this mix?
Brown sugar, white chocolate chips, and red and green chocolate candies provide the sweet notes.
- → How should I store the mix?
Keep it in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt add savory depth and balance.