Have you ever wondered how to elevate your holiday snack game with a blend of sweet and salty flavors that can please everyone at your festive gatherings? Christmas Chex Mix is the answer! This delightful combination of crunchy cereals, pretzel nibblers, and festive candy brings joy to snack time, making it a staple on every holiday table. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and easy treat to whip up this season, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this recipe and make your Christmas gatherings more delicious!
Ingredients Needed
For our Christmas Chex Mix, here’s what you’ll need:
- 24 ounces Chex cereal: A mix of rice and wheat varieties adds texture; feel free to use corn Chex for a gluten-free option.
- 16 ounces Snyder’s sourdough pretzel nibblers: These add a crunchy, salty component that beautifully balances the sweetness.
- 7.5 ounces Bugles: Their horn shape adds fun and a unique crunch.
- 2 boxes white CandiQuik: This chocolate coating ties everything together with a sweet, creamy layer.
- 1 cup Christmas mini M&Ms: Their festive colors spread holiday cheer, with a delicious chocolatey bite.
- 1 bag Starlight peppermint candies: Crushed for an invigorating peppermint flavor—perfect for the holidays.
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles: These colorful touches enhance visual appeal and joy.
Timing
Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, cooking/baking time is about 30 minutes, bringing your total to 1 hour. This is 20% less time than the average holiday treat recipe, making it a quick yet delightful option for last-minute snack needs!
How to Make Christmas Chex Mix
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheets
Cover two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the mix from sticking.
Step 2: Crush the Peppermints
In a Ziploc bag, crush the peppermint candies using a hammer or meat mallet. Keep the pieces relatively large for texture and flavor bursts.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a very large mixing bowl, combine the rice and wheat Chex, Bugles, and pretzels. Use two large spoons and gently mix to avoid crushing the ingredients.
Step 4: Divide the Mixture
Remove half of the cereal mixture and set it aside, leaving half in the bowl. This step allows for easy mixing of the chocolate coating in batches.
Step 5: Melt the CandiQuik
Melt one package of CandiQuik according to package instructions. A microwave or double boiler works well for this.
Step 6: Drizzle the Chocolate
Drizzle about ¼ of the melted white chocolate over the cereal in the bowl.
Step 7: Add the Toppings
Quickly sprinkle half of the mini M&Ms, crushed peppermints, and sprinkles (1 tablespoon at a time) over the mixture. Mix gently using two large spoons to avoid breaking the cereal.
Step 8: Spread and Cool
Transfer this batch onto one of your prepared baking sheets, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool completely.
Step 9: Repeat for the Second Batch
Repeat the above steps for the remaining ingredients, melting the second package of CandiQuik and using the other half of your toppings.
Nutritional Information
This Christmas Chex Mix provides your holidays with creativity and indulgence! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, with 10g of fat, 50g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. This makes it a fun option for your holiday festivities!
Healthier Alternatives For Christmas Chex Mix
To maintain the festive spirit while enhancing the nutritional benefits, consider the following swaps:
- Substitute dark chocolate for white CandiQuik to lower sugar content and add antioxidants.
- Opt for gluten-free pretzels or Chex varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Experiment with dried fruits instead of candy for a healthier sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Christmas Chex Mix in festive bowls or jars for an inviting look. You can mix it with popcorn for a movie night snack or give it as a charming gift in mason jars, tied with ribbon.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Over-mixing: Gently fold in chocolate and toppings to maintain the integrity of the crunchy snacks.
- Using hot ingredients: Ensure that the melted CandiQuik has slightly cooled before mixing to prevent soggy cereal.
Storing Tips For Christmas Chex Mix
Store your Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh longer, consider refrigerating it, though it may lose some of its crunchiness.
Conclusion
In summary, Christmas Chex Mix is an irresistibly fun treat that combines sweet and salty flavors, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. Experiment with personal touches and enjoy this delightful mix. Ready to get started? Try this recipe, share your results, and explore other delicious holiday snacks!
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for CandiQuik?
You can replace CandiQuik with melted almond bark or white chocolate chips.
Can I make Christmas Chex Mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well, making it great for prepping in advance.
How can I add more flavors?
Consider adding nuts, different candy varieties, or even spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this mix vegan?
Yes, choose vegan chocolate coatings and check the pretzel ingredients to ensure they are dairy-free.
How long does Christmas Chex Mix stay fresh?
When stored properly, it can stay fresh for up to two weeks while maintaining its delightful crunch.
Now go ahead—you’ve got all the information to make your own Christmas Chex Mix and spread holiday cheer! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Print
Christmas Chex Mix
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of crunchy cereals, pretzels, and festive candy for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces Chex cereal (mix of rice and wheat varieties)
- 16 ounces Snyder’s sourdough pretzel nibblers
- 7.5 ounces Bugles
- 2 boxes white CandiQuik
- 1 cup Christmas mini M&Ms
- 1 bag Starlight peppermint candies (crushed)
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheets: Cover two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Crush the Peppermints: In a Ziploc bag, crush the peppermint candies using a hammer or meat mallet.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the rice and wheat Chex, Bugles, and pretzels. Mix gently to avoid crushing.
- Divide the Mixture: Remove half of the cereal mixture and set it aside, leaving half in the bowl.
- Melt the CandiQuik: Melt one package of CandiQuik according to package instructions.
- Drizzle the Chocolate: Drizzle about ¼ of the melted white chocolate over the cereal in the bowl.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle half of the mini M&Ms, crushed peppermints, and sprinkles over the mixture. Mix gently.
- Spread and Cool: Transfer this batch onto one of your prepared baking sheets and allow it to cool completely.
- Repeat for the Second Batch: Repeat the process for the remaining ingredients.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chex Mix, Holiday Snack, Christmas Treat