Introduction
Looking for a delightful snack that combines the crunch of cereals with the sweetness of cinnamon and caramel? This Churro Chex Mix recipe is a perfect way to satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a great treat for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 cups Rice Chex cereal
4 cups Corn Chex cereal
2 cups thin stick pretzels
1 cup honey-roasted peanuts
¾ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
¼ teaspoon table salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup granulated sugar
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
20 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped and sliced into quarters (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 10 servings
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Churro Chex Mix!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 275°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
Step 2: Prepare the Cereal Mixture
In a large heat-safe mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex cereal, Corn Chex cereal, thin stick pretzels, and honey-roasted peanuts. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Butter and Sugar Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the light brown sugar and table salt. Cook and whisk until the brown sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract.
Step 4: Coat the Cereal Mixture
Pour the melted butter and sugar mixture over the cereal mixture in the bowl. Gently stir and toss to coat the cereal, pretzels, and peanuts evenly.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Spread and Sprinkle
Spread the coated cereal mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the coated Chex mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the cinnamon sugar is evenly distributed.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure the Chex Mix cooks evenly and turns golden brown.
Step 8: Cool the Chex Mix
Remove the Churro Chex Mix from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 9: Add Caramels
Once cooled, sprinkle the quartered caramels over the mix.
Notes
Note 1: Storage
Store any leftover Churro Chex Mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Note 2: Customization
Feel free to customize the mix by adding other ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit to suit your taste.
Note 3: Alternate Sweetener
You can substitute honey or maple syrup for the light brown sugar if you prefer a different sweetener.
Note 4: Caramel Option
The quartered caramels are optional but will add a delicious extra sweetness if included.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating your oven ensures that your Churro Chex Mix cooks evenly from the start. Set the oven to 275°F to create a low and slow baking environment.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the Rice Chex cereal, Corn Chex cereal, pretzels, and honey-roasted peanuts, use a gentle stirring motion. This helps to avoid crushing the cereals and maintains their crispness.
Making the Coating
Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat to create a smooth coating. Stirring in the brown sugar and salt ensures that the sugar dissolves completely, which is crucial for an even flavor distribution.
Even Coating
Pour the butter and sugar mixture over the dry ingredients, and carefully toss them together. This step is key to ensuring every piece is evenly coated for the best taste and texture.
Sprinkling Cinnamon Sugar
Make sure to sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the Chex Mix. Gently mixing afterward helps distribute the sweetness without disturbing the texture.
Baking Technique
Bake in a preheated oven while stirring every 15 minutes to promote even cooking. This technique helps achieve that desired golden brown color and toasty flavor.
Cooling Before Serving
Letting the Churro Chex Mix cool completely on the baking sheet is important. This step allows it to crisp up, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Adding Caramels
If using caramels, sprinkle them over the cooled mix afterward. The residual warmth will slightly soften them, allowing for easy integration without melting completely.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cereal?
Yes, feel free to substitute any of the cereals with similar types, like Crispix or Cheerios, to customize the flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to use brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds a rich flavor, but you can substitute it with white sugar if needed. Just note that the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, ensure that all cereals, pretzels, and any additional ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftover Churro Chex Mix?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for about a week, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I add more nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding any other nuts or seeds you like, such as almonds or sunflower seeds.
Is it possible to make this recipe without pretzels?
Yes, you can omit the pretzels, although they add a delightful crunch. You can replace them with additional cereal or another crunchy snack.
Conclusion
The Churro Chex Mix is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, crispy textures, and an irresistible cinnamon sugar coating. This snack is perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or simply enjoying at home. With its easy preparation and delicious result, it’s bound to become a favorite treat for everyone.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet and Spicy Snack Mix
Combine Chex cereals, pretzels, nuts, and a blend of honey, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon for a sweet and spicy twist.
Chocolate Drizzle Chex Mix
After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the Chex mix and add mini marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired treat.
Tropical Chex Mix
Incorporate dried pineapple, coconut flakes, and macadamia nuts for a tropical flavor profile.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chex Mix
Mix Chex cereals with peanut butter, chocolate candies, and pretzels for a rich and indulgent snack.
Maple Pecan Chex Mix
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar and mix in toasted pecans for a fall-inspired snack.
Cheesy Ranch Chex Mix
Use a ranch seasoning mix and add cheese crackers for a savory, zesty flavor.
