Description of this recipe
Christmas Chex Mix is a classic holiday snack that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This festive version combines the salty crunch of Chex cereal, pretzels, and nuts with the sweetness of white chocolate and the colorful fun of M&M’s. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it incredibly addictive. This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, and it’s a great way to add a homemade touch to your holiday gatherings.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore this Christmas Chex Mix because it’s:
- Effortless: Minimal baking and easy cleanup.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite cereals, candies, and nuts.
- Festive: The red and green M&M’s make it perfect for holiday parties.
- Deliciously Addictive: The salty-sweet combination is irresistible.
- Great for Gifting: Package it up in festive bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
- 9 cups Chex cereal (corn, rice, wheat, or a combination)
- 1 cup pretzel grids or sticks
- 1 cup honey-roasted peanuts (or any nuts of your choice)
- 12 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1 cup red and green M&M’s
- Optional: 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the Chex mix from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a very large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and nuts. Make sure the bowl is big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably, allowing you to stir without spilling.
Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate
Pour the white chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval. This is crucial to prevent the chocolate from burning or seizing. Continue until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Coat the Chex Mix
Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture. Gently stir with a large spoon or spatula, making sure to coat all the cereal, pretzels, and nuts evenly. This step requires patience to ensure everything is nicely covered without breaking the cereal.
Step 5: Add M&M’s and Candy Canes
Once the Chex mix is coated in chocolate, immediately add the red and green M&M’s. If you’re using crushed candy canes, sprinkle them on top as well. The chocolate is still warm, so the M&M’s will adhere nicely.
Step 6: Spread and Cool
Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This allows the Chex mix to cool evenly and prevents it from clumping together too much.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the Chex mix cool completely at room temperature. This may take about 30-60 minutes. To speed up the process, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
Step 8: Break Apart and Serve
Once the Chex mix is completely cooled and the chocolate is firm, break it into bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a large bowl or serving platter and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in a large bowl at holiday parties.
- Package in cellophane bags or jars for gifting.
- Add to a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats.
- Enjoy as a snack while watching Christmas movies.
Tips:
- Melting Chocolate: Be patient when melting the white chocolate to prevent burning.
- Even Coating: Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the white chocolate for maximum flavor.
- Cooling: Allow the Chex mix to cool completely before breaking it apart to ensure the chocolate sets properly.
- Storage: Store the Chex mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes + 30-60 minutes cooling time
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate, varies based on specific ingredients used)
Calories:
Around 150-200 per serving
Protein:
2-3 grams per serving
Sodium:
50-100 mg per serving
Conclusion
Christmas Chex Mix with M&M’s is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. Its combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy textures makes it incredibly addictive, and its festive appearance adds a touch of holiday cheer to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a party, gifting it to friends and family, or simply enjoying it as a snack, this Chex mix is sure to be a hit. The recipe’s simplicity and customizable nature also make it a great activity to do with kids, creating fun and lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and get ready to create a batch of this irresistible Christmas treat! This recipe is more than just a snack; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a taste of holiday magic all rolled into one. It’s the perfect way to spread joy and sweetness during the most wonderful time of the year.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of white chocolate?
A: Absolutely! While white chocolate is the classic choice for this recipe, you can easily substitute it with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even semi-sweet chocolate. Each type will bring a different flavor profile to the mix, so choose your favorite or experiment to find a new favorite. Just be sure to melt the chocolate slowly and evenly to prevent burning.
Q2: What if I don’t have red and green M&M’s?
A: No problem! If you can’t find holiday-themed M&M’s, you can use regular M&M’s and pick out the red and green ones. Alternatively, you can use other festive candies like Christmas sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even chopped-up candy bars. The goal is to add a pop of color and extra sweetness, so feel free to get creative!
Q3: How long does the Christmas Chex Mix stay fresh?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, Christmas Chex Mix can stay fresh for up to a week. However, it’s usually best enjoyed within the first few days while the cereal and pretzels are still crisp. If you live in a humid environment, consider adding a desiccant packet to the container to help absorb any excess moisture.
Q4: Can I add other types of nuts or dried fruits to the mix?
A: Definitely! This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite nuts and dried fruits. Almonds, cashews, pecans, dried cranberries, raisins, and chopped apricots would all be delicious additions. Just be sure to chop any larger nuts or fruits into smaller pieces so they mix evenly with the other ingredients.
Q5: Can I make a large batch of this Chex Mix ahead of time for a party?
A: Yes, you can! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare the Chex Mix as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container. You can make it up to a few days in advance. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the ingredients. This is a great way to save time and stress during the busy holiday season, ensuring that you have a delicious and festive snack ready to go whenever you need it.
