This fun Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix is a sweet snack that’s super easy to make! It mixes crunchy Chex cereal with a tasty cinnamon sugar coating that makes each bite deliciously addictive.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Chex Cereal: This is the heart of the mix, bringing a delightful crunch. If you can’t find Rice Chex, you can swap it for Corn Chex or a similar puffed cereal. Just make sure it has a similar texture!
Mini Pretzels: These add a nice salty crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pretzels. You could also substitute with mixed nuts for a different twist.
Granulated Sugar: While granulated sugar is standard, brown sugar can add a richer flavor. If you want a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
Ground Cinnamon: This spice is key for that classic cinnamon taste. If you want to mix it up, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair.
Unsalted Butter: For a healthier option, you could use coconut oil. It adds a hint of sweetness and is a great vegan alternative. Just make sure to melt it!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor nicely. If you’re out, imitation vanilla can work, but I always recommend using pure for the best taste.
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Coating?
Getting that cinnamon sugar mix to stick just right is important. Here’s how to do it best:
- Start with dry ingredients: Mix your Rice Chex and pretzels first so they’re dry. This will help the coating stick better.
- Evenly distribute: When you pour the melted butter over the mix, drizzle it instead of pouring it all in one spot. This helps distribute the butter more evenly.
- Gentle tossing: When combining everything, use a spatula or a large spoon and fold gently. This prevents breaking the Chex while it’s getting coated.
- Let it cool: Don’t skip the cooling time! This allows the coating to harden, making it crunchy and delicious.
With these tips, you’ll have a perfect Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix that everyone will love!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mix:
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups mini pretzels
For The Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time Needed:
This tasty Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-30 minutes to let it cool and set. It’s a quick and easy treat for any time snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal and 3 cups of mini pretzels. Give it a gentle stir so they are mixed well. This crunchy base is where all the magic happens!
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mix:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Make sure they are well combined. This will be the signature sweet flavor of your mix!
3. Create the Butter Mixture:
In another small bowl, mix together the 5 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This buttery goodness will help the sugar stick, making every bite delicious!
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the butter mixture over the cereal and pretzels. Gently toss everything with a spatula or spoon until all the pieces are evenly coated. We want each bite to be flavored just right!
5. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the coated cereal and pretzels. Give it another gentle toss to make sure everything is well coated in that sweet cinnamon goodness.
6. Spread and Cool:
Spread the mixture out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps it cool evenly and prevents sticking. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to allow the coating to harden, becoming crunchy and delicious!
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooled, store your Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. Grab a handful whenever you need a sweet and crunchy snack!
Happy snacking! 😊
Can I Use Other Chex Cereals?
Absolutely! While Rice Chex is traditional, feel free to experiment with Corn Chex or even Chocolate Chex for a fun twist on flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Mini Pretzels?
No problem! You can substitute mini pretzels with regular-sized pretzels, or even nuts like almonds or pecans for a different texture and taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store your Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to a week, though it’s likely to disappear much quicker!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter. This will still provide that delicious richness!
