Chex Mix Recipe – American Special
Chex Mix is a classic snack that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of crunchy cereals, pretzels, nuts, and a savory, buttery seasoning. This homemade version is easy to make and customizable with your favorite ingredients, delivering the ideal balance of salty, spicy, and umami flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a party, a road trip, or just a quick snack at home, this Chex Mix is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 10 min
Chex Mix Ingredients :
- 3 cups Rice Chex
- 3 cups Corn Chex
- 2 cups Wheat Chex
- 1 1/2 cups pretzels (mini pretzels or pretzel sticks)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as cashews, almonds, or peanuts)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
How to make Chex Mix:
Preheat the oven:Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Combine dry ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and nuts. Stir gently to mix them evenly.
Make the seasoning mixture:In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the mixture is well-combined.
Coat the dry ingredients:Pour the seasoning mixture over the Chex and pretzel mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
Recipe Notes :
Cereal Variations:Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Chex varieties (corn, rice, or wheat).
Substitute Cereals: You can also use Cheerios, Crispix, or other similar cereals if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
Nuts:Choose your favorite nuts (cashews, almonds, pecans, or peanuts) or go nut-free if allergies are a concern.
Roasted Nuts: For extra flavor, use roasted nuts rather than raw.
Spices and Seasoning:
Adjust the Heat: Add more cayenne for extra spice or omit it entirely for a milder mix.
Customize Flavors: Add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for different flavor profiles.
Add-ins:For added crunch and flavor, try tossing in some cheese crackers, bagel chips, or pretzel crisps.
Sweet and Savory Version: Add chocolate chips, M&Ms, or even dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.) after baking for a sweet twist.
Storage:
Keep it Fresh: Store Chex Mix in an airtight container for up to a week. It stays crisp and fresh for several days, making it great for snacking or gifting.
Make Ahead: You can prepare Chex Mix ahead of time for parties, road trips, or school snacks. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, so it’s even better the next day!
