Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly addictive snack that's perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in? Look no further than this spicy Chex mix recipe! This isn't your grandma's Chex mix; we're turning up the heat with a flavorful blend of spices and a satisfying crunch that will have you reaching for more. Get ready for a delicious explosion of taste in every single bite! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but don't have a lot of time. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals – you can control the ingredients and make it as healthy as you want!
Ingredients for Spicy Chex Mix:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix)
- 1 cup pretzels (twists or rods)
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, pecans – your choice!)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or other dried fruit
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste!)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Spicy Perfection
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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 even cooking and preventing burning.
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Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts, mixed nuts, and dried cranberries. Mix well to distribute evenly. This ensures that every piece gets coated in the delicious spicy mixture.
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Melt the Butter & Spices: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the spices are well combined and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the butter.
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Coat the Chex Mix: Pour the melted butter mixture over the cereal mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated. Make sure to get all those nooks and crannies coated for maximum flavor!
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated Chex mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The aroma will be incredible!
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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. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Spicy Chex Mix:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. Start with less and add more if you like it extra spicy!
- Nut Variations: Feel free to substitute your favorite nuts or seeds. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds add a nice crunch.
- Sweet & Spicy: For a sweet and spicy kick, add a tablespoon or two of brown sugar to the butter mixture.
- Homemade Gift: This spicy Chex mix makes a fantastic homemade gift for friends and family, especially during the holidays.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate, will vary based on ingredients used):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This spicy Chex mix recipe is a delicious and simple addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal ideas. It's perfect for satisfying those cravings for quick dinner ideas, without sacrificing on taste or enjoyment. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! It’s guaranteed to be one of your best recipes.