Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during holiday gatherings and game nights. It’s the ultimate snack to put out when friends come over or when you just want a cozy night in with something delicious to munch on. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and everyone — from kids to adults — can’t seem to resist this sweet and salty mix.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix. First, it’s one of those rare recipes that satisfies a multitude of cravings — sweet, salty, crunchy, and buttery, all in one bite. It’s also a budget-friendly option, especially when you have leftover snacks at home. Whether you’re prepping for a casual family gathering, a festive holiday feast, or simply a quiet evening in front of the TV, this Chex mix is the perfect companion.
"This Chex mix is absolutely addictive! I made it for a game night, and it was gone within an hour. Everyone loved the combination of flavors!" – Sarah T.
How this recipe comes together
Making Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix is straightforward and fun. You’ll start by creating a sweet caramel sauce that brings everything together. That delicious buttery flavor plus a hint of salt will coat the Chex cereal, pretzels, and nuts, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned. The baking process allows the mix to become crunchy, resulting in that perfect texture everyone loves.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make your own homemade Chex mix:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (any variety you prefer)
- 1 cup pretzels (classic or any flavored variety)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (choose your favorites)
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Feel free to swap in different types of nuts or even use gluten-free pretzels to make this treat suitable for various dietary needs.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until it reaches a boil.
- Once boiling, let the mixture bubble without stirring for 4-5 minutes. After that, remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the Chex mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Let it cool completely before serving. Enjoy your Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix!
Best ways to enjoy it
This Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. You can serve it in a large bowl for a party or create individual snack bags for a fun treat on-the-go. Additionally, it could pair well with a cozy movie night, or as a sweet treat at a picnic. For a whimsical touch, try layering it in mason jars as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your delicious Chex mix, let it cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks if stored properly. If you’re planning to keep it for longer, consider freezing it in a zip-top freezer bag. Just make sure to let it thaw before serving, as the caramels may become sticky.
Helpful cooking tips
- Stir the caramel continuously while cooking to prevent it from burning.
- Be careful when adding the baking soda, as it may bubble up rapidly.
- For a deeper flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular butter before mixing it into the caramel.
Creative twists
While the classic Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix is irresistible, consider playing around with the flavors! You could add chocolate chips, swap out the pretzels for popcorn, or even try different types of nuts. A dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can add an exciting element. For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Your questions answered
-
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking and baking takes around an hour and a half. -
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of nuts, gluten-free pretzels, or even replace the corn syrup with honey for a different flavor. -
How long does this Chex mix last?
When stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
This Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix is not just a snack; it’s a delightful treasure that transforms any gathering into a sweet celebration. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Buttery Salted Caramel Chex Mix
Ingredients
For the Chex Mix
- 6 cups Chex cereal (any variety)
- 1 cup pretzels (classic or any flavored variety)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (choose your favorites)
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda handle carefully as it may bubble up
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts.
Making Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until it reaches a boil.
- Once boiling, let the mixture bubble without stirring for 4-5 minutes. After that, remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda.
Baking
- Pour the caramel mixture over the Chex mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Let it cool completely before serving.
