Description
Crunch Mix is a quick, no-bake snack made with cereal, pretzels, crackers, and nuts tossed together and baked to perfection, creating a perfectly salty, crunchy bite. Easy to customize for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking, this recipe offers a deliciously seasoned treat that’s simple to prepare and enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups rice or corn square cereal (such as Chex)
- 2 cups mini pretzel twists
- 1½ cups cheese crackers or oyster crackers
- 1 cup roasted peanuts or mixed nuts
- ½ cup bagel chips or rye chips (optional)
Seasoning Mix
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp seasoned salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a very large bowl, combine the rice or corn cereal, mini pretzel twists, cheese or oyster crackers, roasted peanuts or mixed nuts, and bagel or rye chips if using.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter or olive oil with garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, paprika, and dried parsley or Italian seasoning until well blended.
- Toss Snack Mix: Pour the seasoning mixture over the combined dry ingredients and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated snack mix in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even toasting.
- Bake and Stir: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to toast the mix evenly and bring out the aroma.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let the snack mix cool completely before serving to allow it to crisp up.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Sweet & Salty: After cooling, add chocolate candies for a sweet contrast.
- No-Bake Option: Skip the oven and toss cereal mixture with melted butter and seasonings only for a quicker snack.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
