Get ready to transform your snack game with the most addictive treat that'll have everyone begging for your secret recipe! This Sweet and Salty Chex Mix isn't just another boring party snack - it's a crunchy, caramelized explosion of flavor that perfectly balances sweet and savory in every single bite. Whether you're hosting a game night, need a quick munchie, or want to impress your friends with a homemade treat, this recipe is about to become your new culinary superstar!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- Chex cereal
- Mixed nuts
- Mini pretzels
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help the Chex Mix become perfectly crunchy without burning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of Chex cereal (you can use a mix of rice, corn, and wheat Chex for variety), 1 cup of mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and peanuts), and 2 cups of mini pretzels. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Once melted, add 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of corn syrup (optional for extra sweetness), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Once the butter and sugar mixture is ready, pour it over the Chex cereal mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the mixture until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the sweet and salty mixture.
- Spread the coated Chex Mix evenly onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to spread it out as much as possible to ensure even baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Every 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and stir the mixture to ensure that it bakes evenly and doesn't clump together.
- After 1 hour, remove the Chex Mix from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crunchier as it cools.
- Once cooled, break apart any clumps and transfer the Sweet and Salty Chex Mix to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy as a snack or serve at your next gathering!
Tips
- Use a mix of Chex cereals (rice, corn, and wheat) for more complex texture and flavor.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Stir the mix every 15 minutes during baking to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.
- Let the mix cool completely before storing to maintain maximum crunchiness.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the mix fresh for up to a week.
- For extra flavor variations, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use a large, wide baking sheet to ensure the mix spreads out evenly for perfect roasting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
