Caramel Snack Mix is a sweet, crunchy, and addictive treat that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or homemade gifts. This easy-to-make mix features a buttery caramel coating over a combination of popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and cereal, creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a fun snack, this caramel-coated mix is sure to be a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Sweet and salty combination – The perfect balance of flavors.
- Great for gifting – Package it in bags or jars for a homemade treat.
- Customizable – Use your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
- Pretzels
- Rice or corn cereal (such as Chex)
- Mixed nuts (almonds, peanuts, pecans, or cashews)
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Corn syrup or honey
- Vanilla extract
- Baking soda
- Salt
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Snack Mix: In a large bowl, combine popcorn, pretzels, cereal, 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 boil and let cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vanilla and Baking Soda: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up slightly.
- Coat the Snack Mix: Pour the caramel sauce over the snack mix, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
- Bake: Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Let the mix cool completely before breaking it into pieces. Store in an airtight container.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Mix: Add chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate after baking.
- Spicy-Sweet: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a kick.
- Holiday Twist: Add candy-coated chocolates or festive sprinkles for seasonal fun.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If it softens, bake at 250°F for 5-10 minutes to crisp it up again.
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, but use plain or lightly salted popcorn to avoid overpowering flavors.
What’s the best cereal to use?
Rice or corn Chex, Crispix, or even plain Cheerios work great.
Can I make this without corn syrup?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?
Work quickly while stirring, and bake the mix to help evenly coat everything.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes! Dried cranberries, raisins, or banana chips add great texture.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pretzels and cereal to make this snack mix gluten-free.
What’s the best way to package this for gifts?
Store in mason jars or festive bags tied with ribbon for a perfect homemade gift.
Can I add caramel candies?
Yes! Add chopped caramel candies after baking for an extra chewy texture.
Conclusion
Caramel Snack Mix is a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a party, a snack, or a homemade gift, this caramel-coated mix is always a hit. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible snack!
PrintCaramel Snack Mix
This Caramel Snack Mix is the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and salty! Made with crispy cereal, pretzels, and nuts, all coated in a buttery homemade caramel sauce, it’s a great party snack, holiday treat, or movie night favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
- 3 cups mini pretzels
- 2 cups popcorn (plain, air-popped)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, or cashews)
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup light corn syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
- ½ cup M&M’s or Reese’s Pieces
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
Instructions
-
Preheat & prepare:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
-
Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, popcorn, and mixed nuts. Set aside.
-
Make the caramel sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Let boil for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up slightly.
-
Coat the snack mix:
- Pour the caramel sauce over the dry mix and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
-
Bake & stir:
- Spread the caramel-coated mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
-
Cool & add extras:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. Break into pieces and mix in chocolate chips or M&M’s (if using).
-
Serve & enjoy:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week (if it lasts that long!).
Notes
- Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty kick.
- Peanut Butter Caramel: Stir in ¼ cup peanut butter into the caramel sauce before pouring over the mix.
- No-Bake Version: Skip the oven and spread the caramel-coated mix on a tray to set for 1 hour.