If your lookin for a snack that hits sweet and salty just right, dont miss Toffee Chex Mix. Its a crunchy mix of Rice and Corn Chex cereal, nuts, and a tasty toffee sauce. Whether youre throwin a party, getting ready for game night or celebrating a holiday, this mix can be changed up any way you like.
The best part is how addicting this stuff is you wont stop at just one handful. Every bit is crunchy and sweet and salty all at once. Friends and family always ask for more, and its perfect for sharing in big bowls at get togethers or packing in little bags as gifts. Try this addicting Toffee Chex Mix and youll see why it became a snack staple.
The Origins of Chex Mix
Chex Mix started way back in the early 1950s when they had leftover cereals from breakfast and wanted to make somethin new. At first it was all savory with nuts, spices and cereals but over time people began adding sweet things. Thats how toffee got added and it made the snack taste like dessert.
People liked the mix of sweet and salty so much that toffee Chex Mix was born. Toffee has a buttery sweetness and crunch that goes really well with cereal and nuts. It quickly turned into a popular twist that you can find in stores or make at home.
This recipe mixes the old school Chex Mix memories from kids days with a modern snack everyone can share. Its perfect for casual hangouts or big holiday parties.
Why This Recipe is Addicting
Toffee Chex Mix is special cause it mixes sweet, salty and crunchy all together. The toffee sweetness balances the salty nuts and the plain Chex cereal. Its super hard to stop eating once you start.
The texture is great too. The cereal and nuts stay crunchy while the toffee gives a sticky crunch. Some bits are chewy which makes the snack even funnier to munch on.
Lots of people say they make it for fam gatherings and everyone going back for seconds or thirds. Plus, nuts give you some good fats and proteins so it feels a little less guilty.
Ingredients
Youll need:
- Chex cereal (use Rice Chex and Corn Chex)
- Nuts like pecans, almonds or any nut you like
- Toffee bits (found in store or online)
- Chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- Butter (unsalted for better flavor)
- Brown sugar (packed)
- Vanilla extract
- Salt (just a pinch)
Use fresh ingredients cause they make a big difference.
Directions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat oven: Set the oven to 250°F (120°C). Low heat helps the toffee stick and not burn.
2. Make the base: In a big bowl mix 3 cups Rice Chex and 3 cups Corn Chex. Add 1 cup nuts and stir gently.
3. Cook the toffee: In a saucepan melt 1 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Then add 1 cup packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Keep stirring until it boils and let it boil 2 minutes, stir all the time.
4. Coat the mix: Pour the hot toffee over the cereal and nuts. Stir with a spatula so every piece get coated.
5. Bake and stir: Spread the mix on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes so it bakes even and wont clump.
6. Add chocolate and toffee bits: After baking, take it out and sprinkle 1 cup chocolate chips and 1 cup toffee bits. Stir gently while its still warm, but dont let the chips melt all the way.
7. Cool and serve: Let the mix cool on the baking sheet. Once its cool break it into pieces and keep in an airtight container.
Tips and Variations
Adjusting for Dietary Needs
- For gluten free, pick gluten free Chex cereal.
- If you have nut allergies use pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- For vegan, switch butter to coconut oil and use dairy free chocolate chips.
Flavor Variations
- Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the toffee sauce for more nuttiness.
- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for fall vibes.
- At holidays, toss in dried cranberries or sprinkles for color.
Serving Suggestions
Try these ideas:
- Put in big bowls at parties.
- Pack small bags or jars for party favors.
- Serve with iced tea, lemonade or a cold soda.
Store and Shelf Life
Store in an airtight container at room temp. It stays fresh up to 2 weeks. For longer, freeze in bags and thaw before eating.
FAQs
Common Questions Answered
1. Can I make it in advance? Yes you can make it a day or two ahead and keep it in a sealed container.
2. How to store leftovers? Put leftovers in an airtight container at room temp. Dont fridge it because it can change the texture.
3. Can I add other ingredients? Sure go wild with dried fruits, different nuts or pretzels for extra crunch.
4. Best way to serve? Serve in bowls at parties or in little bags for gifts, presentation counts.
5. Substitutions? You can use carob chips instead of chocolate or swap toffee bits for different flavors.
6. Is it safe for kids? Its safe, but watch out for nut and choc allergies and small pieces that can be a choke risk with young kids.
Conclusion
Toffee Chex Mix brings together sweet, salty and crunchy in one snack you cant resist. Its great for any occasion and makes fun memories. Give this recipe a try and share it with your friends and family!
Addicting Toffee Chex Mix Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 saucepan
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups Chex cereal Any variety.
- 1 cup mixed nuts Almonds, pecans, or peanuts.
- 1 cup pretzel sticks
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick.
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, mixed nuts, and pretzel sticks. Stir gently to mix.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined; the mixture should bubble up.
- Pour the toffee mixture over the Chex cereal mixture. Use a rubber spatula to coat the dry ingredients evenly with the toffee.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes. While still warm, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the top. Allow the chocolate to melt slightly, then gently stir to distribute.
- Let the toffee Chex mix cool completely before breaking it into clusters and storing it in an airtight container.
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