As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the delightful moments spent in my grandma’s kitchen. One of her most cherished recipes was Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix. This festive snack mix is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy moms like us. With its crunchy cereals, sweet treats, and a hint of nostalgia, it’s a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones. Trust me, this mix will become a holiday staple in your home, just like it did in mine!
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Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix Will Delight Your Holiday!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and festive snack mix perfect for the holiday season, combining various cereals, nuts, and sweet treats.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 3 cups Wheat Chex cereal
- 1 cup mixed nuts
- 1 cup pretzels
- 1 cup M&M’s
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, mixed nuts, and pretzels.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted mixture over the cereal mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Once cooled, mix in the M&M’s and chocolate chips.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or candies.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored for several weeks.
- Great for gifting or holiday parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
This Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The combination of sweet and salty flavors will have everyone reaching for more. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite nuts or candies, making it a delightful treat for all ages. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this festive delight. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rice Chex cereal: This adds a light, crispy texture that’s perfect for snacking.
- Corn Chex cereal: A slightly sweet flavor that complements the other cereals beautifully.
- Wheat Chex cereal: Provides a hearty crunch and a nutty taste.
- Mixed nuts: Choose your favorites! They add protein and a satisfying crunch.
- Pretzels: These bring a salty twist that balances the sweetness of the mix.
- M&M’s: Colorful and fun, they add a pop of sweetness and joy.
- Chocolate chips: Because who can resist chocolate? They melt in your mouth!
- Butter: This is the magic ingredient that binds everything together and adds richness.
- Brown sugar: It gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the flavor.
- Corn syrup: Helps to create that delightful sticky coating that holds the mix together.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or candies! You can also swap out the M&M’s for seasonal candies or use gluten-free cereals if needed. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing.
How to Make Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
Making Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warmth and festive cheer. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack mix that everyone will love!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. This way, your Chex mix will come out perfectly crunchy and golden, just like Grandma used to make!
Step 2: Combine the Cereal and Nuts
In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, mixed nuts, and pretzels. Make sure to mix them well! Even distribution is key here. You want every bite to be a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Coating
Now, let’s make the sweet coating. In a saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This sweet concoction is what makes Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix so irresistible!
Step 4: Coat the Cereal Mixture
Once your sweet coating is ready, pour it over the cereal mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. This step is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a festive treat!
Step 5: Bake the Mixture
Spread the coated mixture onto a large baking sheet. Bake it in the preheated oven for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This stirring is important! It helps to ensure that every piece gets that lovely golden color and crunch.
Step 6: Cool and Add Treats
After an hour, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the mix cool completely. This cooling time is essential for the coating to set. Once it’s cool, mix in the M&M’s and chocolate chips. They’ll add a pop of color and sweetness that everyone will adore!
Step 7: Store Properly
To keep your Chex mix fresh, store it in an airtight container. It can last for several weeks, making it perfect for holiday snacking or gifting. Just be sure to hide it from the kids—if you can!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and crunch.
- Don’t skip the stirring during baking; it’s key for even cooking.
- Let the mix cool completely before adding M&M’s and chocolate chips.
- Experiment with different nuts or seasonal candies for a unique twist.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: A big bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients. A salad bowl works too!
- Spatula: Use a spatula for mixing and coating. A wooden spoon can do the trick as well.
- Baking sheet: A large baking sheet is needed for baking. If you don’t have one, a roasting pan will work.
- Saucepan: A medium saucepan is perfect for melting the sweet coating. A small pot can also suffice.
Variations of Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
- Nut-Free Version: Swap out the mixed nuts for extra pretzels or additional cereals to keep it nut-free.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add more chocolate chips or use white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some chili powder or cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy mix that will surprise your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Chex cereals and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Seasonal Twist: Incorporate seasonal candies like candy corn or pumpkin spice M&M’s for a festive flair.
Serving Suggestions for Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
- Serve in festive bowls or mason jars for a charming presentation.
- Pair with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
- Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for a delightful crunch.
- Gift in decorative bags for friends and family during the holidays.
FAQs about Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix
Can I make Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! This mix can be made a few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or as a snack for busy days!
What can I substitute for the nuts in the recipe?
If you have nut allergies or simply prefer not to use them, feel free to replace the mixed nuts with extra pretzels or additional cereals. You can also add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
How long does Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this Chex mix can last for several weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunchiness!
Can I use different cereals for this recipe?
Definitely! While the classic Chex cereals are a must, you can mix in your favorite cereals or even granola. Just keep the ratios similar for the best results.
Is Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone at your holiday table. Enjoy this festive treat without any worries!
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on the joy of making Grandma’s Christmas Chex Mix, I can’t help but smile. This recipe is more than just a snack; it’s a celebration of family, love, and cherished memories. The delightful crunch and sweet flavors bring everyone together, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it during a cozy night in, this mix is sure to spread cheer. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create your own batch of holiday magic with this timeless treat!