Are you craving a snack that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This original oven Chex Mix recipe is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or when you're simply looking for a delicious, homemade treat. Forget store-bought mixes filled with artificial flavors; this recipe lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a crunchy, flavorful snack that's perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). It's a quick dinner idea if you're looking for something a bit different, too!
This recipe is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly versatile and adaptable to your tastes. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a sweet and salty combination, or a simple savory crunch, this Chex Mix recipe is easily customized to become your new favorite snack. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup breadsticks (sticks or breadsticks)
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup cashews (or your favorite nut)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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. This is a crucial step for even baking and prevents sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, breadsticks, peanuts, and cashews. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This is the foundation of your delicious snack.
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Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Make sure the butter is completely melted for even distribution.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal and snacks are evenly coated. Don't overmix, as this can break the cereal.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Chex Mix is golden brown and 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. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chex Mix:
- Even Coating: Ensure the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed before adding the wet ingredients for even flavor distribution.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to burnt Chex Mix. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
- Cooling is Key: Allowing the Chex Mix to cool completely helps it crisp up further.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy 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 Chex Mix: Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the wet ingredients for a delicious sweet and salty combination.
- Ranch Chex Mix: Substitute Ranch seasoning for the garlic and onion powder.
- Cheese Chex Mix: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mix before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for an accurate estimation based on your ingredient choices.
This easy, homemade Chex Mix recipe is perfect for game day, parties, or a simple afternoon snack. The customizable nature allows you to create a batch tailored to your taste preferences, ensuring a crowd-pleasing treat every time. Enjoy!