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fall chex mix with caramel drizzle - featured image

Fall Chex Mix with Caramel Drizzle


  • Author: Nadia
  • Total Time: 100 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12-15 servings 1x

Description

A comforting, easy-to-make snack featuring crunchy Chex cereal coated in a buttery brown sugar caramel and finished with a sweet drizzle. Perfect for self-care moments when you need something warm, sweet, and salty without much effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 cups (340g) Chex cereal mix (classic multi-grain)
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (110g) pecans and walnuts (half and half)
  • 1 cup (240ml) caramel sauce
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) pineapple juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large half-sheet baking pan (18×13 inches) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pecans, and walnuts. Toss to distribute nuts evenly.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, salt, and pineapple juice. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle bubble.
  4. Let the mixture simmer for exactly 2 minutes to cook out the raw sugar taste. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the cereal and nuts. Use a silicone spatula to fold until every piece is evenly coated.
  6. Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Do not pack it down.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even browning. The mix should be light golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the pan. This step is crucial for the cereal to crisp up.
  9. Once cool, break the mix into chunks.
  10. Warm the caramel sauce in the microwave for 15 seconds to make it pourable. Place in a piping bag or Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off.
  11. Drizzle the caramel over the mix in a zigzag pattern.

Notes

Do not rush the bake; low and slow is key to preventing burnt sugar. Stir frequently to avoid hot spots. Ensure cereal is fresh for best crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Do not refrigerate or freeze as it affects texture. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free Chex and caramel sauce.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 22
  • Sodium: 120
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 4
  • Carbohydrates: 28
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 2

Keywords: fall snack, chex mix, caramel drizzle, self-care recipe, easy snack, sweet and salty, comfort food, party mix