Description
This caramel Chex mix is a sweet, crunchy, and irresistible snack perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a make-ahead treat. Crispy Chex cereal combined with pretzels and nuts is coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce and baked to perfection, delivering the ultimate delicious munchie mix.
Ingredients
Mix Ingredients
- 6 cups Chex cereal (corn, rice, or mixed)
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup salted peanuts or mixed nuts
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large roasting pan or baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together Chex cereal, pretzels, and salted peanuts or mixed nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed for consistent coating.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together the butter, brown sugar, and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Flavor and Leavening: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam up, which is normal and helps create a light caramel coating.
- Coat the Mix: Pour the hot caramel sauce over the dry mix in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the caramel sauce.
- Bake the Mix: Spread the coated mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent burning and help caramel evenly coat all the ingredients.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the caramel Chex mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break apart any clusters before serving or storing.
Notes
- Stirring the mix during baking is essential to prevent burning and ensures even caramel coating.
- Add chocolate chips only after the mix has cooled to prevent melting.
- Store the caramel Chex mix in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- This mix makes a fantastic gift and is great for parties and snack tins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack · Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American