Are you looking for a ridiculously easy yet incredibly addictive snack recipe that’s perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in? Look no further! This Chex Cereal Trash Mix recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, a delicious blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy goodness that will have everyone reaching for more. It's one of those easy recipes that always delivers amazing results, making it a staple in our household for quick dinner ideas or simple appetizers. This homemade cooking delight takes minimal effort but offers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (a mix of Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, and Corn Chex is recommended)
- 1 cup pretzels (twists or sticks)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice!)
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ½ cup butterscotch chips (optional, but adds a lovely flavor dimension)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and chow mein noodles. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Melt & Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This is where you can customize the sweetness – add more powdered sugar for extra sweetness or less for a slightly less sweet treat.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the melted butter mixture over the cereal mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the cereal pieces evenly. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
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Bake: Spread the coated cereal mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the mixture is lightly golden and the peanut butter is slightly toasted. This step enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
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Add Chocolate (Optional): While the mix is still warm, stir in the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips (if using). The warmth of the mix will help them melt slightly and coat some of the cereal pieces.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the Chex mix cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This allows the peanut butter to set and prevents the mix from becoming soggy. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Customize your mix: Feel free to experiment with different types of cereal, nuts, candies, or pretzels. Add some dried cranberries or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the melted butter mixture.
- Make it healthier: Use whole-wheat pretzels and reduce the amount of sugar.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, varies with additions):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 4-6g
This delicious Chex Cereal Trash Mix is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. It's a simple, satisfying snack that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!