Apple Pie Chex Mix

Apple Pie Chex Mix is a sweet, crunchy snack that captures the comforting flavors of classic apple pie. Made with Chex cereal, dried apples, warm spices, and a buttery brown sugar glaze, this snack mix is perfect for fall gatherings, lunchboxes, or anytime you’re craving a cozy treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes like apple pie in snack form
• Great for parties, road trips, or gift-giving
• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
• A kid-friendly treat that adults love too
• Can be made ahead and stored for days

Ingredients

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

• Rice or corn Chex cereal
• Dried apple slices (chopped)
• Pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Apple pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Directions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine Chex cereal, chopped dried apples, and nuts if using.
3. Make glaze: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
4. Combine: Pour the glaze over the cereal mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
5. Bake: Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even crisping.
6. Cool: Let the mix cool completely on the sheet— it will continue to crisp as it cools. Break into clusters and store.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: about 8 cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Toss in yogurt-covered raisins, mini pretzels, or caramel bits after baking
• Nut-free: Omit nuts and replace with sunflower seeds or extra dried fruit
• Spiced-up: Add a touch of cayenne or ginger for a spicy-sweet twist
• Holiday version: Mix in white chocolate chips and red/green M&Ms for a festive spin

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Freezing: Not recommended—moisture may ruin the crunch
• Reheating: If the mix softens, you can briefly re-bake it at 250°F for 5–10 minutes

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples?

No, fresh apples will release moisture and make the mix soggy. Use dried apples only.

How do I make my own apple pie spice?

Combine 4 tsp cinnamon, 2 tsp nutmeg, 1½ tsp allspice, and ½ tsp cloves. Use as needed.

Can I microwave instead of bake?

Yes, microwave in a large microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, for about 4–5 minutes total.

Is it gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free Chex and check your other ingredients for gluten content.

What type of Chex works best?

Rice or corn Chex are ideal due to their neutral flavor and crisp texture.

Can I add caramel?

Yes, drizzle with melted caramel after baking for an extra indulgent twist.

How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Let it cool completely before storing and ensure it’s baked until crisp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well for several days in an airtight container.

Is this good for kids?

Absolutely—just avoid nuts if allergies are a concern.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two baking sheets and rotate halfway through baking.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Chex Mix is the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and crunchy. Whether you’re prepping snacks for a fall get-together or just want to enjoy the nostalgic taste of apple pie in a quick and easy way, this snack mix is a cozy crowd-pleaser.

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