Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a sunny Hawaiian paradise? Forget the usual boring snack mix – we're taking the classic Chex Mix and giving it a vibrant, tropical makeover with our Chex Mix Hawaii recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a delicious, anytime snack. It's a fun, flavorful twist on a beloved classic, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade snacking bliss!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (a mix of Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, and Corn Chex is recommended)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup dried mango chunks
- 1/2 cup dried pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup macadamia nuts (or substitute with other nuts)
- 1/4 cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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, dried mango, dried pineapple, macadamia nuts, and coconut flakes. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the sauce over the cereal mixture and toss gently until all the pieces are evenly coated. Make sure not to overmix, as this can break the cereal.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated Chex Mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex Mix cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This allows it to crisp up further. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Chex Mix Hawaii:
- Customize your mix: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, dried fruits, and even seeds to create your perfect Chex Mix Hawaii. Try adding other tropical fruits like papaya or passionfruit!
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the Chex Mix is spread in a single layer on the baking sheet for even cooking and crisping.
- Watch for burning: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your Chex Mix while it's baking to prevent it from burning.
- Cool completely: Allowing the Chex Mix to cool completely before storing is crucial for maintaining its crispness.
Variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix Hawaii: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Chex Mix Hawaii: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for an extra sweet treat.
- Nut-Free Chex Mix Hawaii: Omit the macadamia nuts and substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. However, generally, you can expect this recipe to be relatively high in carbohydrates and fat, with moderate protein. It's a treat, so enjoy in moderation!
This Chex Mix Hawaii is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy – a truly delicious and easy-to-make snack that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this taste of paradise!