Caramel Snack Mix

This Caramel Snack Mix is the perfect sweet and salty treat for parties, movie nights, or holiday gifts. A crunchy combination of popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and cereal is coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce, creating an irresistible snack that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet and salty – A perfect balance of flavors.
  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
  • Great for any occasion – Perfect for parties, holidays, or as a homemade gift.
  • Customizable – Mix in your favorite nuts, cereal, or drizzle with chocolate.
Caramel Snack Mix 10 This Caramel Snack Mix is the perfect sweet and salty treat for parties, movie nights, or holiday gifts. A crunchy combination of popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and cereal is coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce, creating an irresistible snack that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Popcorn (plain, air-popped)
  • Pretzels
  • Chex cereal (corn or rice)
  • Peanuts (or mixed nuts)
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Corn syrup
  • Vanilla extract
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the mix – In a large bowl, combine popcorn, pretzels, Chex cereal, and nuts.
  3. Make the caramel – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup, then bring to a boil. Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add vanilla and baking soda – Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and baking soda. The mixture will foam.
  5. Coat the mix – Pour caramel over the snack mix and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Bake – Spread onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
  7. Cool and enjoy – Let the mix cool completely before breaking into clusters.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 10-12
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate drizzle – Add melted chocolate after cooling.
  • Spicy version – Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
  • Peanut butter caramel – Stir in peanut butter for extra flavor.

Storage

  • Airtight container: Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Caramel Snack Mix
Caramel Snack Mix 11 This Caramel Snack Mix is the perfect sweet and salty treat for parties, movie nights, or holiday gifts. A crunchy combination of popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and cereal is coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce, creating an irresistible snack that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes! Just use plain or lightly salted popcorn.

Can I make this without an oven?

Yes! Let the caramel-coated mix cool at room temperature instead.

How do I prevent the caramel from getting too hard?

Don’t overcook the caramel, and store the mix in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Caramel Snack Mix is a crunchy, buttery, and addictive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party, gifting it for the holidays, or just making a fun snack for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and salty in every bite!

Print
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Caramel Snack Mix

Caramel Snack Mix

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Category: Snacks, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This sweet and crunchy caramel snack mix is the perfect treat for movie nights, holiday parties, or gifting. It’s packed with crispy cereal, pretzels, nuts, and a buttery caramel coating!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups Chex cereal (corn or rice)
  • 2 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (or peanuts)
  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup or honey
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine Chex cereal, pretzels, and nuts.
  • Make the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Add vanilla & baking soda: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up slightly.
  • Coat the mix: Pour the caramel over the dry ingredients and stir well to coat evenly.
  • Bake: Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
  • Cool & serve: Let cool completely before breaking into pieces. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, M&M’s, or coconut flakes after cooling.
  • No-bake option: Let the caramel mix cool and harden at room temperature instead of baking.
  • Gift idea: Package in small bags for an easy homemade gift!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g

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