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Caramel Snack Mix

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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. Preheat & prepare:

    • Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
    • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

  2. Mix the dry ingredients:

    • In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, popcorn, and mixed nuts. Set aside.

  3. 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.

  4. Coat the snack mix:

    • Pour the caramel sauce over the dry mix and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

  5. 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.

  6. Cool & add extras:

    • Remove from oven and let cool completely. Break into pieces and mix in chocolate chips or M&M’s (if using).

  7. 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.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/caramel-snack-mix/