Caramel Snack Mix is the perfect blend of sweet and savory that will quickly become a staple at your gatherings. With a delightful mix of nuts and crispy cereal coated in rich caramel, this treat is irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a snacks, this recipe hits the spot. Having made this dish on numerous occasions, I can say with confidence that it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Why you’ll love this dish
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Caramel Snack Mix. First, it’s quick to whip up and requires minimal planning—perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute family treat. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, utilizing items you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of nuts provides protein and healthy fats, making it a more balanced snack. Whether at a cozy movie night or a festive gathering, this sweet and crunchy mix will surely delight everyone, including kids and adults alike.
"This Caramel Snack Mix is the ultimate munchy treat! I made it for my kid’s school party, and it was gone in a flash. Everyone wanted the recipe!" – Laura M.
Preparing Caramel Snack Mix
Creating your own Caramel Snack Mix at home is a breeze. The process involves preparing a luscious caramel sauce, combining it with a delightful assortment of nuts and cereal, and then baking until everything is perfectly crunchy. This is a straightforward recipe, but the result is anything but ordinary!
What you’ll need
To make this scrumptious snack, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 Cups assorted nuts (I recommend 1/2 cup each of pecan pieces, slivered almonds, peanuts, and walnut pieces)
- 3-4 Cups Crispix cereal
- 1 Cup brown sugar
- 1/4 Cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 Cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 pinch of cream of tartar
Feel free to substitute the nuts based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a nut-free version, try seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds!
Directions to follow
- Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and light corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, let it cook for an additional 2 minutes without stirring.
- Add Baking Soda: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully add the baking soda and cream of tartar. The mixture will foam up. Stir until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the assorted nuts and Crispix cereal. Pour the caramel sauce over the mixture, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the snack mix onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cool: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Caramel Snack Mix is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it as is, or package it in decorative bags for a thoughtful homemade gift. It pairs wonderfully with freshly popped popcorn for a movie night or even as a topping for ice cream sundaes. You might also consider serving it alongside a fruit platter for a well-rounded snack spread.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Caramel Snack Mix fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it in a resealable bag for up to three months. Just ensure it cools completely before storing, as any residual heat can create moisture that will affect the crunchiness!
Pro chef tips
- Watch the Caramel: It’s essential to keep an eye on the caramel while cooking. Overheating it can lead to a bitter taste.
- Mix-Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nut combinations to find your favorite. Just make sure that all nuts are roasted or toasted for the best flavor and texture.
- Cooling Time: Let the snack mix cool completely for that perfect crispy texture before breaking it apart.
Creative twists
- Add some mini marshmallows or chocolate chips for an extra gooey treat.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder before baking, giving the mix an intriguing sweet-and-spicy balance.
- Swap the Crispix for a mix of other cereals, like Cheerios or Rice Chex, to change up the flavor and texture.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this snack mix?
Preparation and baking together take about an hour, making it a relatively quick and easy treat.
Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely! Caramel Snack Mix can be made a few days in advance, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
What if I’m allergic to nuts?
You can create a nut-free version by using seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin, and replacing the nuts with an additional amount of cereal.
Making Caramel Snack Mix at home doesn’t just fill your home with a delectable aroma; it creates a snack that brings people together. Dive in, and enjoy the delightful crunch and sweet caramel goodness!
Caramel Snack Mix
Ingredients
Nuts and Cereal
- 2 cups assorted nuts (1/2 cup each of pecan pieces, slivered almonds, peanuts, and walnut pieces) Feel free to substitute nuts based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- 3-4 cups Crispix cereal Cereal can be swapped for other types like Cheerios or Rice Chex.
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda Be careful as the mixture will foam up.
- 1 pinch cream of tartar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and light corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly.
- Once boiling, let it cook for an additional 2 minutes without stirring.
Combine Ingredients
- Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully add the baking soda and cream of tartar, stirring until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the assorted nuts and Crispix cereal.
- Pour the caramel sauce over the mixture, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
Bake
- Spread the snack mix onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Cool
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Break into pieces and enjoy!
