Homemade Chex Party Mix Snack

Chex Party Mix is a crunchy, savory snack that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or simply munching while watching your favorite show. The combination of Chex cereals, pretzels, nuts, and flavorful seasonings baked to perfection makes this snack utterly addictive.

I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, customizable, and fills the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of buttery, seasoned goodness. Unlike store-bought mixes, homemade Chex Party Mix lets you control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring every bite is fresh, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy, savory, and full of flavor.
• Easy to make in large batches for parties or snacks.
• Highly customizable with your favorite cereals, nuts, or seasonings.
• Can be stored and enjoyed over several days without losing crunch.

Must-Try Dish Because

• A classic American snack that’s perfect for holidays, game days, or gatherings.
• Quick to whip up yet impressive and satisfying.
• Appeals to all ages—kids, teens, and adults alike.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour (including baking and stirring)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 12 cups (about 12 servings)
• Calories: ~150 per 1-cup serving
• Course: Snack / Appetizer
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
• 3 cups Wheat Chex cereal
• 1 cup small pretzels
• 1 cup roasted nuts (peanuts, cashews, or mixed nuts)
• 1 cup bite-sized cheese crackers (optional)
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• 15x10x1-inch baking sheet or large roasting pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, nuts, and cheese crackers.
2. Stir gently to mix evenly.

Step 3: Prepare Seasoning Mixture

1. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Pour seasoning mixture evenly over the cereal mix.
3. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with the butter and spices.

Step 4: Bake the Chex Party Mix

1. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove from oven and allow the Chex Party Mix to cool completely.
2. Store in an airtight container or serve immediately in a large bowl for snacking.

How to Serve

• Serve in a large bowl at parties or gatherings.
• Perfect for movie nights, game days, or casual snacking.
• Pair with drinks or enjoy as-is for a crunchy, flavorful treat.

Recipe Tips

• Stir every 15 minutes while baking for even seasoning.
• Use unsalted nuts if you want to control saltiness.
• Add extra seasonings like cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Ensure the mix cools completely before storing to maintain crispiness.

Variations

1. Sweet and Salty Chex Mix: Add 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the butter mixture before baking.
2. Spicy Chex Mix: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for heat.
3. Cheesy Chex Mix: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese after baking.
4. Nut-Free Chex Mix: Omit the nuts and substitute extra pretzels or cereal pieces.
5. Holiday Chex Mix: Add red and green M&M candies after cooling for a festive touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade Chex Party Mix is a versatile, crunchy, and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, fully customizable, and irresistibly addictive, it’s a snack that appeals to all ages. With simple ingredients, a quick prep time, and endless variations, this Chex Party Mix is a must-have recipe for parties, holidays, or everyday snacking. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought mixes!