Holiday Mix Sweet Salty

A crunchy, sweet-and-salty snack mix featuring classic Chex cereals, pretzels, and festive candies—perfect for holiday gatherings and presented in a vibrant red and green bowl cluster.

This mix has been a holiday staple in my family for years, bringing everyone together around the snack bowl!

Ingredients

• Cereals: 3 cups Rice Chex, 3 cups Corn Chex, 2 cups Wheat Chex
• Savory Additions: 1 cup mini pretzels, 1 cup roasted peanuts (optional or substitute with pumpkin seeds for nut-free)
• Sweet Additions: 1 cup red and green chocolate candies (such as M&Ms), 1 cup white chocolate chips
• Coating: 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp light brown sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

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Step 1:

Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and peanuts.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

Step 4:

Pour the butter mixture over the dry mix, tossing gently to coat evenly.

Step 5:

Spread the mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6:

Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.

Step 7:

Let cool completely, then stir in red and green chocolate candies and white chocolate chips.

Step 8:

Serve in a festive red and green bowl cluster for holiday flair.

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

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This mix always brings back warm family memories during the holidays with everyone grabbing handfuls and sharing stories.

Notes

Add dried cranberries for an extra festive touch. Pairs well with light sparkling wines or holiday punch.

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl, Small mixing bowl, Whisk, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Spatula

Allergen Information

Contains wheat, milk (from chocolate chips), soy (from Worcestershire sauce), and peanuts (if using). Contains possible tree nut traces if candies are processed in shared facilities. Always check labels for allergens if serving to guests with dietary restrictions.

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Measure spices, liquids, and baking ingredients accurately for consistent results in cooking and baking.

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Enjoy this delightful snack mix that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for celebrations and everyday snacking.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this mix nut-free?

Yes, substitute the roasted peanuts with additional pretzels or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option without compromising crunch.

→ How long should I bake the mix?

Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting and flavor infusion.

→ What is the role of Worcestershire sauce in the mix?

Worcestershire sauce adds depth and savory umami notes, enhancing the sweet and salty balance of the coating.

→ Can dried cranberries be added?

Absolutely, dried cranberries provide an extra festive touch and a subtle tartness complementing the sweet and salty flavors.

→ How should the mix be stored?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.