Who doesn’t love a sweet and savory snack that captures the essence of autumn? Harvest Hash is a delightful mix of cereals, nuts, and candy that brings together the perfect crunch and flavor. As someone who adores cozy gatherings, I often whip this up during family game nights or festive get-togethers. It’s quick to prepare, loved by kids and adults alike, and it’s that perfect treat when you’re craving something a little different.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Not only is Harvest Hash a breeze to create, but it’s also a fantastic way to use pantry staples to concoct an irresistible snack. It brings together familiar ingredients like Crispix and Bugles with the added indulgence of Reese’s Pieces for a sweet crunch that just can’t be beaten. This recipe is perfect for any occasion: from a quick dessert after dinner to a fun addition to a holiday party table.
“I made this for our family reunion, and it was gone within an hour! Everybody kept asking for the recipe. It’s the perfect snack mix!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating Harvest Hash is easy and enjoyable! In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll combine a medley of cereals, nuts, and a decadent buttery mixture that will turn your kitchen into a haven of delightful aromas. You’ll start by mixing the dry ingredients before whipping up a sugary concoction that brings everything together, before finally slow-roasting everything to achieve the perfect crunch.
Key Ingredients
To make Harvest Hash, you’ll need the following items:
- 1 box of Crispix
- 1 bag of Bugles
- 1 bag of Reese’s Pieces (230g)
- 1 cup roasted and salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Feel free to swap in other nuts or candy if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or grab a large roasting pan.
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In a big bowl (or the roasting pan), combine the Crispix, Bugles, and peanuts. Give everything a good mix!
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In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Stir and bring it to a boil until it reaches the soft-ball stage on a candy thermometer.
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Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour the buttery sugar mixture over the cereal mix. Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.
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Transfer the mixture to the lined cookie sheets, or it can just go directly into the roasting pan.
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Roast in the oven for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to ensure an even bake.
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Once removed from the oven, let it cool, stirring every 15 minutes to keep it from hardening too much.
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Finally, once cooled, sprinkle in the Reese’s Pieces and give it one last gentle stir.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Harvest Hash is best enjoyed straight from the bowl at snack time, but it can also shine during movie nights or potluck events. Try serving it in festive jars as party favors, or scatter it across a dessert board for an eye-catching display. Pair it with hot apple cider in the fall for that perfect cozy combo!
The Best Way to Save Extras
Harvest Hash keeps well, making it a great choice for leftovers. Store any uneaten mix in an airtight container at room temperature; it should maintain its crunch for about a week. If you want to freeze it for later, spread it out on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer it into a freezer bag for up to three months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your Harvest Hash, consider toasting the peanuts lightly before adding them. This simple step enhances their flavor and adds an aromatic touch to the overall mix. Also, be sure to monitor the mixture closely while it’s cooling; stirring regularly will help maintain that perfect crunchy texture.
Creative Twists
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! Mix in chocolate-covered pretzels for an extra salty-sweet twist, or swap the nuts for your favorites, like almonds or cashews. You could even create a seasonal version by using festive candies based on the time of year!
Your Questions Answered
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How long does it take to prepare Harvest Hash?
The total process, including baking, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. -
Can I make substitutions?
Absolutely! You can use different nuts, cereals, or even swap out Reese’s Pieces for chocolate M&M’s or other candies you prefer. -
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch for up to a week. You can also freeze it for extended freshness.
Now that you know how to make this delightful and easy Harvest Hash, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a treat that’s sure to become a favorite!
Harvest Hash
Ingredients
Cereal and Nuts
- 1 box Crispix
- 1 bag Bugles
- 1 cup roasted and salted peanuts Lightly toasted for enhanced flavor is recommended.
Sweet Mixture
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 230 grams Reese’s Pieces Added at the end for the sweet crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or grab a large roasting pan.
- In a big bowl (or the roasting pan), combine the Crispix, Bugles, and peanuts. Give everything a good mix!
Cooking
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Stir and bring it to a boil until it reaches the soft-ball stage on a candy thermometer.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the buttery sugar mixture over the cereal mix. Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to the lined cookie sheets, or it can just go directly into the roasting pan.
- Roast in the oven for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to ensure an even bake.
- Once removed from the oven, let it cool, stirring every 15 minutes to keep it from hardening too much.
- Finally, once cooled, sprinkle in the Reese’s Pieces and give it one last gentle stir.
