This Ranch Chex Mix is the perfect crunchy snack! It mixes Chex cereals, nuts, pretzels, and a tasty ranch seasoning that brings everyone together.
Ready in no time, it’s great for parties or movie nights. I love to munch on this while binge-watching shows. It’s just so hard to stop! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cereals: Rice Chex and Corn Chex give this mix a delightful crunch. You could swap them with Wheat Chex if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor. Just make sure to keep the texture in mind!
Pretzels: Mini pretzels are a fun addition. If you can’t find them, regular pretzels or even pretzel sticks will work just fine. They all add that nice salty crunch!
Mixed Nuts: Nuts are optional, but they add a nice protein boost. If you’re nut-free, try using seeds instead, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Butter: You can replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a healthier option. It’ll change the flavor slightly, but it will still be great!
Seasoning: Ranch seasoning is key to flavor here. If you want a different twist, try taco seasoning or a homemade blend of dried herbs.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch with Your Chex Mix?
To ensure your Chex Mix becomes wonderfully crisp, follow these key tips:
- Low and slow baking is your friend! Baking at 250°F helps evenly toast everything without burning it.
- Stir every 15 minutes while baking. This helps all pieces to cook evenly and prevents them from clumping together.
- Allowing the mix to cool completely is crucial. This lets the pieces firm up for that crunchy texture.
By following these steps and keeping an eye on your mix in the oven, you’ll have a perfect crunchy snack every time! Enjoy sharing it at parties or having it for a movie night treat.
Ranch Chex Mix
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 2 cups bite-sized cheese crackers (such as Cheez-Its)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (optional)
Seasoning & Butter:
- 7 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, and then it needs 1 hour in the oven to bake. After that, allow it to cool completely, which takes around 15 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Make sure it’s nice and warm before you put anything in!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, mini pretzels, cheese crackers, and mixed nuts (if you’re using them). Give it a good stir to combine everything together.
3. Prepare the Seasoning Mixture:
In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and smoked paprika. Whisk it all together until well blended. This will add tons of flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the cereal mix. Use a spatula to gently stir everything together, making sure each piece is coated without crushing them.
5. Bake the Mix:
Spread the mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure it’s distributed well to get that crispy texture as it bakes. Pop it in the oven for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to help it toast evenly.
6. Cool Down:
Once you’re done baking, take the Chex mix out of the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It’ll get nice and crunchy as it cools down.
7. Store or Serve:
After it has cooled, transfer your delicious Ranch Chex Mix to a large bowl or an airtight container for storage. It’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own!
Now grab a handful and enjoy your homemade Ranch Chex Mix—it’s a flavorful, crunchy treat that’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Cereals in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Rice Chex and Corn Chex are the favorites for their crunch, you can substitute them with Wheat Chex or even granola for a unique twist. Just ensure they have a similar texture!
How Can I Make This Chex Mix Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoned butter mixture. Start with a pinch, taste, and adjust as needed to reach your desired spice level!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Stored in an airtight container, your Ranch Chex Mix will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunchiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Just be aware that coconut oil may impart a slight coconut flavor, which some people actually love!
