Are you craving a delicious, crunchy snack that's perfect for movie nights, game days, or any day of the week? Look no further! This original Chex Mix recipe, baked to perfection in the oven, is the ultimate homemade comfort food. Forget those bland store-bought versions; this recipe delivers a flavor explosion in every single bite. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this quick and easy recipe that's guaranteed to become a family favorite.
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 mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, cashews – your favorites!)
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 4: Coat the Mix
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and toss gently until all the cereal and snacks are evenly coated. Make sure every piece is slightly moistened but not soggy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Spread the Chex Mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and perfectly crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: 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 even further. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Chex Mix:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the Chex Mix is in a single layer for even baking and crisping.
- Stir halfway through: This prevents burning and ensures even browning.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Add more crunch: Consider adding additional ingredients like chow mein noodles, bagel chips, or even some dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the wet ingredients.
- Sweet & Salty Chex Mix: Add a ¼ cup of brown sugar to the wet ingredients for a delightful sweet and salty combination.
- Chocolate Chex Mix: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Chex Mix for a decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and serving size. However, expect a snack high in carbohydrates, fats, and protein, providing a good source of energy.
This original Chex Mix recipe is a simple yet satisfying homemade snack that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavorful goodness! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Let us know in the comments how your Chex Mix turns out!