Toffee Chex Mix is a sweet, crunchy, and buttery snack that combines crispy Chex cereal with caramelized toffee coating, nuts, and a hint of salt for the perfect balance of flavors. It’s an irresistible treat that’s great for parties, holiday gifts, or just a satisfying snack to keep on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy & Sweet – A delicious mix of crispy cereal coated in rich, buttery toffee.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, holiday gifts, or everyday snacking.
- Customizable – Add chocolate, nuts, or pretzels for variety.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh for days, making it great for gifting or meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice or Corn Chex cereal
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
- Chocolate chips (optional for a drizzle)
Directions

- Preheat Oven – Set to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cereal Mix – In a large bowl, combine Chex cereal and nuts (if using).
- Make the Toffee Coating – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup, bringing to a boil. Let cook for 3-4 minutes without stirring.
- Add Baking Soda & Vanilla – Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up.
- Coat the Cereal – Pour the toffee mixture over the Chex cereal, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Bake & Stir – Spread the coated cereal on the baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Cool & Break Apart – Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle – Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the mix before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Salty-Sweet – Add pretzels or sprinkle with sea salt for extra contrast.
- Nut-Free Version – Omit nuts and use extra cereal or mini marshmallows.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Peanut Butter Toffee – Stir in 2 tbsp of peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
- Holiday Twist – Add M&Ms or crushed peppermint for a festive touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If it softens, bake at 250°F for 5 minutes to crisp up again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes! Crispix, Golden Grahams, or even popcorn work well.
How do I prevent the mix from sticking together?
Spread it out while cooling and stir occasionally to separate pieces.
Can I make this without corn syrup?
Yes! Use honey or maple syrup, though the texture may be slightly different.
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for drizzling?
Melt in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring each time.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free Chex and check all ingredient labels.
Why is my toffee grainy?
Make sure to cook the toffee without stirring and use fresh brown sugar.
How do I make this mix extra crunchy?
Bake a little longer but watch closely to avoid burning.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use two baking sheets to ensure even coating and crispiness.
What’s the best way to package this for gifts?
Use decorative tins, jars, or treat bags tied with a ribbon.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes! Dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins add a chewy contrast.
Conclusion
Toffee Chex Mix is the perfect blend of sweet, crunchy, and buttery goodness that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Whether for a party, holiday treat, or simple snack, this addictive mix is sure to be a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a homemade, gourmet-style snack!
PrintToffee Chex Mix
This Toffee Chex Mix is an addictively sweet, crunchy snack made with crispy cereal, buttery toffee, and a hint of salt. Perfect for parties, holiday gifts, or just a delicious treat to munch on, this easy-to-make mix is sure to be a crowd favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: About 8 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups pretzels (mini twists or sticks)
- 1 cup pecans (or almonds, optional)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light corn syrup (or honey)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup toffee bits (Heath or Skor bits)
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Toffee Coating:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Once melted, bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract (it will bubble slightly).
3. Coat the Mix & Bake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Chex cereal, pretzels, and pecans.
- Pour the toffee mixture over the cereal mix, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Spread onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes for even coating.
4. Add Toffee Bits & Cool:
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with toffee bits, tossing lightly to stick to the hot mixture.
- Let cool completely on the baking sheet.
5. Optional White Chocolate Drizzle:
- Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled Chex mix.
6. Serve & Store:
- Break into clusters and store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Make it Saltier: Use salted butter or sprinkle with flaky sea salt before cooling.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans or swap for more pretzels.
- Holiday Twist: Add red & green M&Ms for a festive touch!
- Storage: Keeps best in an airtight container at room temperature.