Recipe
This Chex Mix recipe is hands down the best snack you’ll ever make—crispy, savory, and totally addictive. What makes it special? A homemade seasoning blend that’s a game-changer compared to store-bought versions. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back.
Imagine this: crunchy cereal squares, pretzels, and nuts coated in a buttery, garlicky, smoky seasoning that hits every flavor note just right. It’s the perfect balance of salty, savory, and slightly sweet—a snack that disappears faster than you can make it.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, packing snacks for a road trip, or just craving something satisfying, this Chex Mix is your go-to. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
Ready to upgrade your snack game? Let’s get mixing!
Ingredients
At the heart of every great Chex Mix is a thoughtful selection of ingredients that balance crunch, flavor, and variety. Here’s how to nail the mix and customize it to your taste:
Must-Have Base Ingredients
- Chex Cereal (Rice, Wheat, or Corn): The backbone of the mix—each type adds a unique texture. Use a blend for the best variety.
- Butter: The flavor carrier—unsalted butter works best so you can control the salt level. Melt it thoroughly for even coating.
- Worcestershire Sauce: The secret umami boost—don’t skip it! Adds depth and complexity.
Seasonings That Make It Shine
- Garlic Powder: Adds savory punch—fresh garlic will burn, so stick to the powdered version.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic—balancing the savory profile.
- Seasoned Salt: The key to that signature flavor—Lawry’s is the classic choice.
Crunchy Add-Ins
- Pretzels: For a salty, chewy contrast—mini twists or sticks work perfectly.
- Bagel Chips: Adds a hearty crunch—substitute with crackers if needed.
- Nuts: Almonds, peanuts, or mixed nuts bring richness—toast them first for extra flavor.
Optional Upgrades
- Spices: Kick it up with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or a dash of Old Bay.
- Sweet Elements: Add a hint of brown sugar or honey for a sweet-savory twist.
- Extras: Throw in sesame sticks, cheese crackers, or even mini rye chips for variety.
Pro Tip: Always taste your seasoning mix before adding it to the Chex—adjusting salt or spice levels before baking guarantees perfection.
How to Make the Best Classic Chex Mix Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature guarantees the Chex Mix gets crispy without burning. A slow bake is key for even toasting.
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid overheating, and stir halfway through for even melting. The butter is the glue that holds the seasoning to the mix.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 ½ teaspoons of seasoned salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¾ teaspoon of onion powder into the melted butter. This creates the signature salty, savory flavor. Make sure the seasonings are well combined for even distribution.
- Combine 3 cups each of Corn Chex, Rice Chex, and Wheat Chex in a large bowl. Use a mixing bowl with high sides to make tossing easier. This trio of cereals gives the mix its classic texture.
- Add 1 cup of pretzels, 1 cup of mixed nuts (or your favorite nuts), and 1 cup of bagel chips or crackers. These add-ins bring crunch and variety. Feel free to customize with your preferred mix-ins.
- Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a large spoon or clean hands to gently toss everything until evenly coated. Be thorough to confirm every bite is flavorful.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto a large, rimmed baking sheet. Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. An even layer secures consistent baking.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This prevents burning and verifies all pieces get crispy. Set a timer to stay on track.
- Let the Chex Mix cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. It will crisp up further as it cools. Resist the urge to snack while it’s hot!
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep it fresh by sealing it tightly. If it lasts that long!
Nutrition
Chex Mix is a popular snack that combines cereals, pretzels, and seasonings. Below is a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 230mg |
| Total Carbs | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
Chef Tips
When you’re making Chex Mix at home, I’ve found that toasting the cereals and pretzels in the oven first enhances their crunchiness. Use fresh spices like garlic powder and onion powder for maximum flavor.
Spread the mix evenly on the baking sheet to guarantee it cooks uniformly. Stir every 15 minutes for even browning.
Let it cool completely before storing to keep it crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Chex Cereal?
Yes, I can use gluten-free Chex cereal if I want to make it gluten-free. It’ll work just as well in the mix, though I should check the other ingredients to guarantee they’re gluten-free too.
How Long Does Homemade Chex Mix Stay Fresh?
Homemade Chex mix stays fresh for about 1–2 weeks if I keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. If I freeze it, it lasts up to 2 months, but I’d thaw it before eating.
Can I Make Chex Mix Without an Oven?
I can definitely make Chex mix without an oven! I use a stovetop or microwave instead. I just toss the ingredients in a skillet or microwavable bowl, heat them while stirring, and let them cool. It’s quick and easy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Chex Mix?
I keep my Chex mix fresh by storing it in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. It stays crunchy for about a week, but I rarely make it last that long!
Can I Add Chocolate or Candy to Chex Mix?
Sure, I can add chocolate or candy to my Chex mix! I’d recommend mixing in chocolate chips, M&Ms, or even crushed candy bars after the mix cools to avoid melting. It’s a fun, sweet twist I love.
