Are you looking for the perfect holiday snack to wow your guests and satisfy those Christmas cravings? Look no further! This Christmas Chex Mix recipe, inspired by the culinary queen Ree Drummond herself, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's easy to make, incredibly delicious, and festive enough to grace any holiday gathering. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet sensational recipe – perfect for adding to your list of quick dinner ideas or simply enjoying as a healthy, delicious snack.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, or a mix)
- 1 cup pretzels (Sticks or twists)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- 1 cup mixed nuts (Pecans, walnuts, almonds – your favorites!)
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup mini marshmallows, ½ cup dried cranberries, ½ cup chocolate chips (for added festive flair!)
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, chow mein noodles, and nuts. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Melt & Mix Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, white sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth.
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Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted butter mixture over the cereal mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Make sure everything is nicely covered for that perfect crunch!
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated cereal mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and perfectly crisp. 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. Once cooled, add any optional ingredients like mini marshmallows, cranberries, or chocolate chips, if desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).
Tips for the Best Christmas Chex Mix:
- Even Coating is Key: Ensure the cereal mixture is evenly coated with the butter mixture for optimal crispness and flavor.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to burnt Chex mix. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
- Customize it!: Feel free to add your favorite candies, spices, or nuts to make it your own! Consider adding some festive sprinkles for extra holiday cheer.
Variations:
- Spicy Christmas Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the wet ingredients for a spicy kick.
- Sweet & Salty Christmas Chex Mix: Increase the amount of brown sugar and add some pretzels for a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- White Chocolate Christmas Chex Mix: Stir in some melted white chocolate chips after baking for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, varies based on ingredients):
This will vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients. Generally speaking, this recipe is relatively high in carbohydrates and fat, but provides a good source of protein and fiber depending on the nuts included.
This Christmas Chex Mix recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes. It’s a delicious and festive snack that's perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy the deliciousness and happy holidays!