Are you craving a delicious and easy snack or party appetizer that's both sweet and savory? Look no further! This baked Chex mix recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights, potlucks, or simply satisfying those afternoon cravings. It's incredibly easy to customize, making it a versatile recipe you'll return to again and again. Forget store-bought mixes – this homemade version is far superior! Get ready for a symphony of crunchy, sweet, and salty goodness.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a combination)
- 1 cup pretzels (twists or sticks)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- 1 cup peanut butter M&Ms
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, chow mein noodles, M&Ms, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanuts. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, vanilla extract, and salt until thoroughly combined.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal and snacks are evenly coated with the buttery mixture. Make sure everything is well combined.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the Chex mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning and prevent burning. Keep a close eye on it during the last 15 minutes.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex mix cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the mixture to crisp up further and prevents the chocolate from melting. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Baked Chex Mix:
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to burnt cereal. Keep a close eye on it during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
- Even Coating is Key: Ensure that all the cereal pieces are evenly coated with the wet ingredients for consistent flavor and texture.
- Customize it!: Feel free to experiment with different types of candy, nuts, and even spices. Try adding things like mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, or different types of nuts.
- Make it Ahead: This Chex mix can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld.
Variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the wet ingredients for a spicy kick.
- Fruity Chex Mix: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for a sweet and fruity twist.
- Nut-Free Chex Mix: Omit the peanuts and substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, may vary based on ingredients):
This will vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients you use. For a general estimate, use a nutrition calculator online and input your specific ingredients.
This baked Chex mix recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes perfect for satisfying any sweet and salty craving. It's a great addition to any gathering and is simple enough for even beginner cooks to master. Enjoy!