Are you looking for a ridiculously easy and incredibly delicious snack recipe that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser? Look no further! This Sweet Chex Mix recipe with M&M's is the ultimate homemade treat, perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply satisfying those sweet and salty cravings. It's one of those best recipes that's surprisingly quick to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavour. Get ready to experience the delightful crunch and irresistible combination of sweet and salty goodness! This is one of those easy recipes that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix)
- 1 cup pretzels (twists or sticks)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup M&M's candies (plain, peanut, or your favorite variety)
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, and chow mein noodles. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Melt the Butter & Peanut Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
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Add Sweetness: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be thick.
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Coat the Cereal Mix: Pour the melted butter and peanut butter mixture over the cereal mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated. Don't be afraid to get your hands in there for a truly even coating!
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Add M&M's: Gently fold in the M&M's. Try not to crush them too much, preserving their delightful shape and satisfying snap.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the Chex mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the mix is golden brown and the M&M's are slightly melted.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex mix cool completely on a wire rack. This allows it to crisp up even further. Once cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature. This delicious snack will stay fresh for several days, if it lasts that long!
Cooking Tips for the Best Sweet Chex Mix:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the Chex mix is spread in a single layer for even baking and to prevent clumping.
- Stir frequently: Regular stirring prevents burning and ensures even browning.
- Customize your mix: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, or different types of candy to create your own unique variation. This is a great opportunity to get creative with your favorite sweet and salty combinations.
- Watch the baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on your Chex mix to prevent over-browning.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the melted butter mixture for a kick.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Lovers: Use peanut butter M&M's and add chopped peanuts to the mix for an extra peanut butter punch.
- Fruity Chex Mix: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped cherries for a fruity twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, varies based on ingredients used):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This sweet Chex mix is a simple yet delightful snack perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and happy cooking!