This sweet snack mix combines the crunch of mini pretzels and rice cereal with roasted almonds and peanuts. Semi-sweet chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and dried cranberries add layers of sweetness while candy-coated chocolates bring colorful fun. Simply toss everything together in a large bowl and serve.
Keep it stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making it ideal for prep-ahead entertaining. Customize with sunflower seeds for nut-free needs or add coconut flakes and banana chips for extra tropical flair.
I used to raid the pantry during sleepovers as a kid, throwing whatever crunchy and sweet things I could find into a giant bowl. It was never a precise science, just a chaotic mix of whatever we had left from the weeks groceries. That haphazard energy is exactly what inspired this specific blend of salty pretzels and rich chocolate. Now, it is my go to when I need something quick but satisfying.
Last winter, I made a massive batch of this while watching a marathon of old movies with my siblings. We ended up arguing playfully over who got the last handful of chocolate covered pretzels. It turned a quiet rainy Sunday into a loud and laughter filled afternoon. That is the magic of easy comfort food.
Ingredients
- Mini pretzels: These provide the essential salty crunch that balances the sugar.
- Rice cereal squares: They add a light, airy texture so the mix does not feel too heavy.
- Roasted salted almonds and peanuts: The nuts offer a satisfying protein boost and a deep roasted flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Use high quality chips here because they are the star of the sweet element.
- Mini marshmallows: These bring a soft chewiness that contrasts nicely with the crisp pretzels.
- Dried cranberries: A burst of tartness cuts through the richness of the chocolate and nuts.
- Candy coated chocolates: They add a pop of color and a fun melty texture if you eat them fast enough.
Instructions
- Mix the Crunchy Base
- Grab your largest mixing bowl and toss in the pretzels, rice cereal, almonds, and peanuts until they look evenly distributed. Listen to the satisfying clatter as the hard ingredients hit the bowl.
- Add the Sweet Surprises
- Pour in the chocolate chips, marshmallows, cranberries, and candy chocolates on top of the salty base.
- Gentle Tossing
- Use a spatula or your hands to fold everything together gently so the marshmallows do not get crushed.
- Sharing or Storing
- Serve it right away for maximum freshness or pack it into an airtight container to keep it crisp for the week.
This mix became a staple in our house during exam season when stress levels were high. It was the only thing that could pull everyone away from their textbooks for a few minutes of bonding. Seeing a bowl empty on the coffee table always signaled a successful study break. Food really does bring people together in the simplest ways.
Perfecting the Salty Sweet Balance
Finding the right ratio of salt to sugar is purely subjective but vital for a good snack mix. I tend to go heavy on the pretzels because I love that savory bite. You should taste test as you go to find your personal preference. Do not be afraid to add an extra pinch of sea salt if the sweets overpower the salty elements.
Making It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability to whatever you have on hand. Sometimes I swap the almonds for sunflower seeds just to change the texture. You can even throw in some popcorn if you want a lighter feel. There are no wrong answers here as long as you enjoy the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This snack mix is incredibly portable, which makes it perfect for road trips or picnics. I like to portion it out into small bags so I can grab one on my way out the door. It also works beautifully as a topping for vanilla ice cream if you want to get fancy.
- Package it in mason jars for a cute homemade gift.
- Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm spice kick.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent the chocolate from blooming.
I hope this mix brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Grab a handful and enjoy the chaos of flavors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long does chocolate snack mix stay fresh?
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Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this sweet mix stays fresh for up to one week. The pretzels and cereal maintain their crunch while the chocolate and marshmallows remain intact.
- → Can I make this nut-free?
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Substitute roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the almonds and peanuts. The seeds provide similar crunch and saltiness while making the mix safe for those with nut allergies.
- → What chocolate works best?
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Semi-sweet chocolate chips balance sweetness nicely, but milk chocolate creates a richer, sweeter blend. White chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks work equally well depending on your preference.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
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Coconut flakes, banana chips, yogurt-covered raisins, or crushed graham crackers all complement the base mix. Consider seasonal candies or themed sprinkles for holidays and special occasions.
- → Is this suitable for large gatherings?
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This mix scales easily for parties—simply double or triple the ingredients. The vibrant colors from candy-coated chocolates and dried cranberries make it visually appealing on buffet tables.