Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you can whip up this snack in no time.
- Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of cinnamon-sugar coating, crunchy cereal, and pretzels makes for an addictive treat.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, gifting, or indulging with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup pretzel sticks
- 1 cup caramel squares, halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix Cereal and Pretzels: In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and pretzel sticks.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the light corn syrup and brown sugar, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the caramel sauce over the cereal and pretzel mixture, stirring gently to ensure even coating.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the coated cereal and pretzels, and toss to combine.
- Bake: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Stir gently and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- Add Caramel Squares: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the halved caramel squares over the warm mixture, allowing them to soften slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the mix cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into pieces and serve or store.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 cups of Churro Chex Mix, serving about 12 people.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate toasted pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once the mix has cooled, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over it for a decadent touch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy combination.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Churro Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Reheating: If you prefer a warm snack, spread the desired amount on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
What is Churro Chex Mix?
Churro Chex Mix is a sweet snack mix inspired by the flavors of traditional churros, featuring Chex cereal and pretzels coated in a cinnamon-sugar caramel sauce.
Can I use different types of Chex cereal?
Yes, you can use any combination of Rice, Corn, or Wheat Chex cereals based on your preference.
How should I store Churro Chex Mix?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain its freshness and crunch.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like pecans or almonds can enhance the flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free Chex cereal and pretzels, you can make a gluten-free version of this snack mix.
Can I substitute honey for corn syrup?
Honey can be used as a substitute for corn syrup; however, it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the caramel sauce.
How long does it take for the mix to cool?
It typically takes about 30 minutes for the mix to cool completely and for the caramel to set.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Churro Chex Mix a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.
What occasions are suitable for serving Churro Chex Mix?
This snack is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, movie nights, or as a homemade gift.
Can I omit the caramel squares?
Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the caramel squares or replace them with chocolate chips or another favorite
Churro Chex Mix
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 12 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Churro Chex Mix is a sweet and crunchy snack that combines the irresistible flavors of cinnamon-sugar churros with Chex cereal and pretzels. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a delicious homemade gift, this easy recipe will be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup pretzel sticks
- 1 cup caramel squares, halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Combine Cereal and Pretzels: In a large bowl, mix Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and pretzel sticks.
- Make Caramel Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add corn syrup and brown sugar, stirring until boiling. Let boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and baking soda.
- Coat Mix: Pour caramel sauce over the cereal mixture, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the coated cereal and toss to combine.
- Bake: Spread evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, remove, sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar, stir, and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Add Caramel Squares: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle caramel squares over the warm mix to soften slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool completely before breaking into pieces. Serve or store.
Notes
- Add toasted nuts or drizzle with melted chocolate for variations.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American