Philadelphia, PA - To make a big batch of Chex mix, follow these tips. Unsalted butter makes the mix less salty, and Worcestershire sauce adds umami flavor. You can substitute other crunchy snack items for Cheez-Its, such as goldfish or mini bagel chips. The key to a successful batch of Chex Mix is to use a combination of nuts and pretzels with at least five cups each.
Homemade Chex Mix is a classic, customizable snack that's perfect for parties, road trips, movie nights, or anytime you crave a savory, crunchy treat. Far superior to store-bought versions, making it yourself allows you to control the ingredients, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and create a snack that's uniquely yours. This recipe provides a basic framework and tips for making delicious, perfectly seasoned Chex Mix at home.
Yields: About 12-14 cups Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- Cereal Base (choose 9-10 cups total):
- 3 cups Corn Chex
- 3 cups Rice Chex
- 3 cups Wheat Chex
- Optional: Oat circles cereal, small shredded wheat cereal
- Crunchy Add-ins (choose 2-3 cups total):
- 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds, pecans)
- 1 cup small pretzels (sticks, mini twists, or snaps)
- 1 cup bagel chips, broken into pieces
- Optional: Rye chips, cheese crackers, sesame sticks
- Butter Mixture:
- 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt (like Lawry's)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
Equipment
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
- 2 Baking Sheets or Jelly Roll Pans
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Spatula
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two large baking sheets (or jelly roll pans) with parchment paper for easier cleanup (optional, but recommended).
Prepare the Cereal Mixture:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a very large bowl, gently combine your chosen cereals, nuts, pretzels, and any other crunchy add-ins. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
Make the Butter Mixture:
- Melt and Season: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Combine and Bake:
- Coat the Cereal: Gradually pour the melted butter mixture over the cereal mixture, tossing gently with a large spatula or your hands to coat evenly. It's important to do this slowly and thoroughly to ensure all pieces are seasoned.
- Spread on Baking Sheets: Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared baking sheets, spreading it in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This ensures even toasting and prevents burning.
- Cool: Let it cool completely.
Microwave Method (Optional):
The original text mentions a microwave method, but it's less reliable for even toasting. If you choose to use the microwave:
- Combine the dry ingredients in a very large microwave-safe bowl.
- Melt the butter and seasonings as described above.
- Pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture and toss to coat.
- Microwave on HIGH for 5-6 minutes, stirring thoroughly every 2 minutes. Be very careful, as the mixture can burn easily in the microwave.
- Spread the mixture on baking sheets or a large platter to cool completely. The microwave method will likely result in a less evenly toasted and crispier product than the oven method.
Storing Your Chex Mix:
- Cool Completely: Allow the Chex Mix to cool completely on the baking sheets or a cooling rack. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispness.
- Store in Airtight Container: Once cool, store the Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for several weeks (if it lasts that long!). You can also use resealable bags.
Customization Ideas:
- Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon or two of brown sugar to the butter mixture for a sweeter flavor.
- Spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
- Herby: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the butter mixture. The original text mentioned fresh herbs, but dried herbs are better for baking.
- Cheesy: Toss the warm Chex Mix with grated Parmesan cheese after baking.
- Add-Ins: Get creative with your add-ins! Consider:
- Small crackers (like Cheez-Its or Goldfish)
- Different types of nuts
- Sesame sticks
- Dried fruit (add after baking)
- M&M's (add after baking)
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cereals and pretzels.
Tips for Success:
- Low and Slow: The low oven temperature and long baking time are key to achieving a perfectly crispy and evenly toasted Chex Mix.
- Stir Frequently: Stirring every 15 minutes during baking is essential to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
- Don't Overcrowd: Use two baking sheets to allow for proper air circulation.
- Cool Completely: This is crucial for crispness. Don't skip this step!
Homemade Chex Mix is a customizable, crowd-pleasing snack that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe provides a solid foundation, but feel free to experiment with different cereals, add-ins, and seasonings to create your own signature blend. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
