Introduction
Dive into the world of sweet and salty treats with this delightful recipe that combines a variety of textures and flavors. Perfect for the holiday season or any festive gathering, this snack mix is sure to satisfy your cravings with its rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy pretzels. Let’s gather the ingredients and get started!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
7 cups Chex cereal
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons caramel sauce
3 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1½ cups powdered sugar
1½ cups mini pretzels
1½ cups mini peanut butter cups
2 cups Christmas M&M’s
½ cup salted peanuts
½ cup white chocolate chips
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Makes approximately 12 servings
Enjoy creating this indulgent snack mix that is sure to impress both friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt Ingredients
In a microwavable bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, caramel sauce, and butter. Microwave and stir the mixture in 20-30 second intervals, checking between intervals to ensure it doesn’t burn, until completely melted when stirred together. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Coat the Cereal
Pour the Chex cereal into a large bowl and add the melted chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel mixture. Stir the cereal until it is evenly coated, being careful not to break the pieces.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar
Place the powdered sugar into a gallon-sized plastic bag. Add the coated cereal to the bag and shake until all the powdered sugar adheres to the cereal. You might need two bags to fit it all.
Step 4: Combine Additional Ingredients
Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a clean large bowl. Stir in the mini pretzels, mini peanut butter cups, Christmas M&M’s, salted peanuts, and white chocolate chips.
Notes
Storage
Store the finished snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Customization
Feel free to customize the mix by adding your favorite candies or nuts to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This snack mix is perfect for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or as a tasty treat for gift-giving.
Cook techniques
Melting Ingredients
Begin by combining semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, caramel sauce, and butter in a microwavable bowl. Use short intervals in the microwave to gradually melt these ingredients, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Coating Cereal
Once your chocolate mixture is ready, pour it over the Chex cereal in a large bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure that each piece of cereal is evenly coated, taking care to avoid breaking them apart.
Shaking with Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal into a gallon-sized plastic bag containing powdered sugar. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously, ensuring that the powdered sugar evenly coats the cereal mixture.
Mixing Add-Ins
After coating with powdered sugar, move the cereal mixture to a clean large bowl. Fold in your choice of mini pretzels, mini peanut butter cups, Christmas M&M’s, salted peanuts, and white chocolate chips to add flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute Chex cereal with other types of cereals, though it may alter the texture and final flavor.
How long will this treat stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these treats can last up to a week.
Can I make this treat ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this treat a few days in advance. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain freshness.
Are there any substitutions for the chocolate chips?
You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips as alternatives, depending on your preference.
Is there a nut-free option available?
Yes, you can omit the peanut butter and mini peanut butter cups, using a nut-free alternative like sun butter if desired.
Conclusion
The delightful combination of Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and various sweet and salty ingredients creates a unique, festive treat that is perfect for any occasion. The mix is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing, with vibrant colors from the M&M’s. This combination truly embodies the joy of snacking, making it an excellent choice for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging at home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate-Caramel Rice Crackers
Mix rice crackers with melted chocolate, caramel, and crushed nuts for a crunchy, sweet treat.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Combine creamy peanut butter and chocolate brownie batter for a rich, fudgy dessert.
Sweet and Salty Trail Mix
Create a trail mix with nuts, chocolate chips, dried fruits, and pretzels for a quick snack on the go.
Holiday Granola Bars
Blend oats, honey, mixed nuts, and chocolate chips to make chewy, homemade granola bars.
Chocolate Pretzel Bark
Melt chocolate over a layer of pretzels, sprinkle with sea salt, and cool for a crunchy, sweet bark.
Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie
Blend ripe bananas with peanut butter, milk, and a splash of vanilla for a creamy, nutrient-packed drink.
