Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Christmas Chex Mix: The Ultimate Holiday Snack

  • Author: Ashley
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

Christmas Chex Mix is a festive, crunchy snack mix that combines a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors. Made with a variety of Chex cereals, pretzels, nuts, and holiday-themed M&Ms, this easy-to-make treat is coated in a sweet and buttery glaze that’s perfect for the holiday season. The mix is then baked to perfection, giving it that irresistible crunch and light caramelization that makes it nearly impossible to stop snacking on. It’s the ideal treat for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even a fun homemade gift. With its balance of flavors and textures, Christmas Chex Mix brings joy to every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

  • 4 cups Rice Chex cereal: The classic ingredient for any Chex Mix. Its crisp texture holds up well in the mix and absorbs the flavors of the coating.
  • 4 cups Corn Chex cereal: Adds a different texture and flavor to the mix. You can also use Wheat Chex if preferred.
  • 2 cups pretzels: Small pretzel twists add a salty crunch to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
  • 1 cup mixed nuts: A blend of almonds, cashews, and peanuts adds protein and extra crunch. You can use any nuts you prefer.
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows: Optional, but they add a fun, fluffy texture and sweetness to the mix, making it more festive.

For the Sweet Coating:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter: This helps create a smooth, buttery coating that will evenly coat the cereal and other ingredients.
  • 1 cup brown sugar: The sweetness of brown sugar creates the caramel-like coating that makes this Chex Mix so addictive.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the sweet coating.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A subtle spice that gives the mix a warm, holiday-inspired taste.

For the Chocolate:

  • 2 cups white chocolate chips: These melt into a smooth, creamy coating that pairs wonderfully with the caramelized Chex Mix.
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips: Provides a rich contrast to the sweetness of the white chocolate.
  • 1 cup red and green M&M’s: Adds a festive touch of color to the mix and a sweet burst of candy-coated chocolate flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sprinkles: Holiday-themed sprinkles or sugar crystals to add a touch of sparkle and festivity.
  • Cocoa powder or powdered sugar: For dusting the mix for a snowy, wintry look.
  • Candy canes: Crushed candy canes for an added peppermint flavor.

Instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE BASE

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, mixed nuts, and mini marshmallows (if using). Make sure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  3. Coat the Dry Ingredients: Pour the hot caramel-like coating over the dry mix. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. It may look a bit sticky at first, but the coating will set as it cools.

Second Step: MELT THE CHOCOLATE

  1. Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to burn the chocolate.
  2. Melt the Milk Chocolate: Repeat the same process with the milk chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl.
  3. Drizzle the Chocolate: Once the caramel-coated Chex Mix has cooled slightly, drizzle the melted white and milk chocolate over the mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir and coat the Chex Mix with the melted chocolate. This creates a marbled effect, which is not only delicious but visually appealing.

Third Step: ADD THE FESTIVE TOUCHES

  1. Add M&M’s and Sprinkles: While the chocolate is still slightly warm, sprinkle in the red and green M&M’s and any holiday-themed sprinkles you’d like to use. Gently toss the Chex Mix to distribute the M&M’s evenly throughout.
  2. Optional Peppermint Touch: If you love the taste of peppermint, crush a few candy canes and sprinkle them over the Chex Mix. This adds both flavor and a festive, snowy appearance.
  3. Cool and Set: Allow the Chex Mix to cool completely at room temperature, so the chocolate hardens and the mix becomes crunchy again. This can take about 20 minutes.

Final Step: SERVE AND GIFT

  1. Break Up the Mix: Once the Chex Mix has cooled and the chocolate has set, break it up into pieces. You can store it in airtight containers, keeping it fresh for up to a week.
  2. Gift It: Pack the Chex Mix into decorative tins, jars, or holiday-themed gift bags for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift. Add a festive ribbon or tag for that extra special touch.
  3. Enjoy: Serve the Chex Mix at your holiday gatherings, enjoy it with friends and family, or snack on it while curled up on the couch watching Christmas movies.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 4g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://mydelightrecipes.com/christmas-chex-mix-the-ultimate-holiday-snack/