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As the first hints of holiday cheer fill the air, there’s something undeniably heartwarming about creating a treat that brings people together. I discovered this Christmas Chex Mix recipe one chilly December afternoon, when I was craving a snack that balanced sweet and salty flavors. With the crunch of Chex cereal and the satisfying bite of mini pretzels, this delightful mix becomes an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s an easy recipe, perfect for inviting the kids into the kitchen – imagine their faces lighting up as colorful M&M’s find their way into the mix! Not only does this delicious snack elevate holiday gatherings, but it also makes for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore. Let’s dive in and create a festive blend that’s sure to make your holiday season even sweeter!

Why is Christmas Chex Mix a Must-Make?

Irresistible Taste: The perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors brings joy to every bite.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a festive snack ready in no time!

Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your little helpers in the kitchen, watching their excitement as they pour in M&M’s.

Versatile Treat: Customize with your favorite nuts or use different seasonal candies for a unique twist.

Thoughtful Gift: Pack it in festive jars for a heartfelt, homemade gift that friends and family will cherish.

Get ready to impress at your next gathering with this delightful blend!

Christmas Chex Mix Ingredients

• The essential components for a festive treat!

For the Base

Corn and/or Rice Cereal Squares (Chex) – These form the crunchy foundation of your mix, and substituting with gluten-free options is a breeze!
Mini Pretzels – They add a satisfying crunch and saltiness—perfect alongside Chex. Choose gluten-free if needed!
Salted Roasted Almonds – A nutty flavor that boosts crunch; feel free to swap with your favorite nut!

For the Coating

Salted Butter – This creamy ingredient binds everything deliciously; coconut oil can make a fantastic dairy-free swap.
Honey – This natural sweetener not only adds flavor but also helps stick everything together; maple syrup is a lovely alternative!
Sugar – Bringing additional sweetness to the mix; reduce if you prefer a lower-sugar option.
Ground Cinnamon – A warming spice that creates a festive aroma; try vanilla powder for a different twist!
Vanilla Extract – This aromatic flavor enhancer makes your mix truly special; almond extract works if you’re feeling adventurous!

For Drizzling and Topping

White Chocolate Chips – A sweet drizzle that complements the mix beautifully; dark chocolate can be used for a less sweet touch.
Coconut Oil – Helps melt the chocolate smoothly; it’s not mandatory, but it makes drizzling easier!
Red and Green M&M’s – For that pop of holiday color and sweetness; any seasonal candy can brighten up the mix!

Get ready to create the ultimate Christmas Chex Mix that not only satisfies your cravings but also adds a festive spirit to your gatherings!

How to Make Christmas Chex Mix

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Chex Mix.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, mini pretzels, and salted roasted almonds. Stir gently to ensure even distribution.
Prepare Coating: In a saucepan, melt the salted butter, honey, sugar, and ground cinnamon over low heat. Stir gently until fully blended and smooth.
Combine: Pour the melted mixture over your dry ingredients, making sure to coat everything evenly. Use a spatula to mix gently until thoroughly combined.
Bake: Spread the mixture evenly onto a large baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. You want it lightly browned and dry for the perfect crunch!
Add Toppings: Once out of the oven, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle red and green M&M’s on top. Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.

Optional: Serve in festive bowls or gift in decorative jars for a charming touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Christmas Chex Mix?

Elevate your festive gatherings with delightful pairings that complement this sweet and salty treat.

Warm Mulled Cider: This cozy beverage enhances the holiday spirit, its spices echoing the cinnamon in your Chex Mix.
Fluffy Popcorn: Light and airy, it offers a different texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy elements of the mix.
Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the pretzels, adding a savory balance to your snack table.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast, revitalizing your palate between bites of rich Chex Mix.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These treats play up the sweet and salty theme and make an indulgent match with your mix!
Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this classic holiday drink provides a rich complement to the festive flavors of Chex Mix, perfect for sipping on cold winter nights.
Sugar Cookies: Lightly spiced or frosted, these cookies echo the holiday spirit, making for a delightful dessert pairing.
Gingerbread Men: Their warm spices and sweetness blend harmoniously with the cinnamon flavors in your Chex Mix.
Hot Chocolate: Topped with marshmallows, this creamy beverage is sure to please while enhancing the sweet notes of your snack.
Spiced Tea: A fragrant cup of spiced tea rounds out the offerings, creating a festive atmosphere that invites conversation and connection.

Christmas Chex Mix Variations

Embrace your creativity and make this festive treat your own with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Swap Chex cereal and pretzels with certified gluten-free options to enjoy without worry.
Nut-Free: Replace almonds with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for the same crunch without nuts.
Fruit-Infused: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a chewy, fruity burst alongside the crunchy mix.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to add a little heat, balancing the sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in dark chocolate chips or drizzle with milk chocolate for an extra indulgent option.
Maple Syrup: For a unique sweetness, substitute honey with maple syrup, giving a warm flavor that’s perfect for the season.
Holiday Colors: Use pastel M&M’s or seasonal candies for spring festivities, making it adaptable throughout the year.
Popcorn Addition: Toss in some popcorn for an extra layer of crunch and a fun twist on texture!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Chex Mix

Room Temperature: Store Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain its delightful crunch.
Fridge: While refrigeration isn’t necessary, it can be done for up to 10 days. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mix in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Thaw overnight before enjoying!
Reheating: If desired, you can reheat the mix in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crunchiness before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Chex Mix treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients—Chex cereal, pretzels, and almonds—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. For the coating, you can melt the butter, honey, sugar, and cinnamon, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to whip up your Chex Mix, combine the components, bake, and finish with the chocolate drizzle and M&M’s right before serving. This strategy not only saves time but ensures you’ll always have a delightful snack ready for those festive occasions!

Expert Tips for Christmas Chex Mix

Even Coating: Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the buttery mixture to prevent clumps that can affect the texture of your Christmas Chex Mix.
Cool Completely: Before storing, let the mix cool completely to maintain its crispiness and prevent it from becoming soggy in an airtight container.
Double the Batch: If you’re hosting a gathering, consider doubling the recipe! This mix disappears quickly, and your guests will keep coming back for more.
Creative Variations: Experiment with different festive candies! Swap out the red and green M&M’s for pastel colors during Easter or use seasonal nuts for a unique spin.
Storage Tips: Store your Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze it for longer-lasting enjoyment!

Christmas Chex Mix Recipe FAQs

What type of Chex cereal should I use?
You can use either corn or rice Chex cereal as the base for your Christmas Chex Mix! Corn is slightly sweeter, while rice gives a milder flavor. If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free options are available; just look for gluten-free Chex varieties specifically.

How should I store my Christmas Chex Mix?
Store your Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain its crunch. If you want it to last longer, you can also refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 10 days.

Can I freeze Christmas Chex Mix?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Chex Mix, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you want to restore the crunchiness, reheat it in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

What can I do if my Chex Mix is too sugary?
If you find your Christmas Chex Mix too sweet for your taste, reduce the sugar amount in the coating next time. Alternatively, you can increase the quantity of pretzels or nuts in the mix to balance the sweetness and add even more crunch!

Is this recipe suitable for kids with nut allergies?
You can easily customize the Christmas Chex Mix to be nut-free! Simply substitute the roasted almonds with additional pretzels or other seed-based snacks like pumpkin seeds. This way, it remains a delightful treat for kids who may have nut allergies.

How long will my Christmas Chex Mix last?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your Christmas Chex Mix will last for about a week. If you choose to refrigerate it or freeze it, it can last much longer—I would say up to 10 days in the fridge or up to a month in the freezer. Enjoy it while it’s fresh for the best taste!