Are you looking for a quick and easy snack or a fun addition to your next movie night? Look no further! This Cheerios snack mix recipe is incredibly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a delightful crunch that everyone will love. It's perfect for busy weeknights, kid-friendly gatherings, or satisfying those afternoon cravings for something sweet and salty. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes made with homemade cooking, resulting in a healthy meal option that's far superior to store-bought snacks. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Cheerios (original or honey nut)
- 2 cups pretzels (twists or rods)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts)
- 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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. This is a crucial step for ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Cheerios, pretzels, mixed nuts, and dried fruit. Mixing these ingredients evenly is key to a well-balanced snack mix.
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Make the Sweet & Salty Glaze: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. If using cinnamon, add it now. This glaze is the secret to the snack mix's irresistible flavor.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the Cheerios too much.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated snack mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
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Cool & Add Chocolate: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the snack mix cool completely on the sheet. Once cooled, gently stir in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheerios Snack Mix:
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different types of cereal, nuts, dried fruits, and even add seeds for extra texture and nutrition.
- Storage: Store your finished snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps maintain its freshness and crunch.
- Portion Control: While delicious, this snack mix is calorie-dense. Consider portioning it out into individual snack bags for better control.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving - 1/4 cup):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 5-8g
- Protein: 3-5g
Variations:
- Spicy Snack Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Peanut Butter Cheerios Snack Mix: Substitute peanut butter for some of the butter in the glaze for a richer, nuttier flavor.
- White Chocolate Cranberry Cheerios Snack Mix: Use white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a festive twist.
This easy recipe for Cheerios snack mix offers a quick and simple way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying snack. It’s a great way to use up leftover cereal and create a personalized treat tailored to your taste preferences. It's perfect for quick dinner ideas or a delightful addition to your healthy meals. Enjoy!