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Caramel Chex Mix: Sweet, Crunchy Party Snack Recipe


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4.2 from 47 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 10 cups
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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