Are you craving a crunchy, savory snack that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Chex Mix Original Oven recipe is a classic for a reason – it's unbelievably delicious, customizable, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Forget store-bought versions loaded with preservatives; this homemade Chex Mix is the ultimate comfort food, elevated to delicious heights with simple ingredients and a few clever tweaks. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight snack, a game-day gathering, or a fun weekend activity with the family. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (a mix of Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, and Corn Chex is traditional)
- 1 cup pretzels (Snyders of Hanover are a popular choice)
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
- Optional: ½ cup small breadsticks, ½ cup chow mein noodles, other nuts or seeds.
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step is crucial for even cooking and preventing sticking.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and peanuts. If using additional mix-ins, add them now. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
-
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoned salt until smooth.
-
Coat Evenly: Pour the sauce over the cereal mixture and stir gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated. Don't be afraid to use your hands to ensure even distribution. This is where the magic happens!
-
Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated cereal mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to promote even browning and crisping. Keep a close eye on it during the last 15 minutes to prevent burning.
-
Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex Mix cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows it to crisp up further. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade Chex Mix!
Cooking Tips for the Best Chex Mix:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your Chex Mix is in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking and soggy pieces.
- Stirring is Key: Stirring halfway through baking is essential for even cooking and preventing burning.
- Customize Your Mix: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, pretzels, or even add some spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Storage: Store your Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).
Variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet & Savory Chex Mix: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness.
- Chocolate Chex Mix: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Chex Mix for a decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, will vary based on ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying snack. The combination of wholesome grains and nuts provides essential nutrients, while the savory flavors make it irresistible. Enjoy your homemade Chex Mix - a perfect snack for any occasion!