When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing better than having a go-to treat that’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and bursting with festive cheer. Our Christmas Chex Mix recipe with M&Ms is all of that and more. With a delightful blend of salty crunch and sweet decadence, this snack is perfect for parties, gifts, or just munching at home by the Christmas tree.
Whether you’re prepping for a last-minute holiday gathering or looking for an edible gift idea, this recipe will save the day. Let’s dive into the details and make this irresistible snack mix together.
Why We Love This Recipe
The Christmas Chex Mix is a staple in our holiday traditions for several reasons:
- Effortless Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is as easy as it gets.
- Versatile and Festive: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a homemade gift, it’s a snack that fits every occasion during the holiday season.
- Crowd Favorite: The balance of sweet and salty flavors ensures it’s always a hit, whether served at a family gathering or tucked into a child’s lunchbox.
- Customizable: From M&Ms to pretzels, the mix can be adapted to suit any palate or holiday theme.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this holiday favorite:
- 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups of pretzels (Snyder’s snaps or pretzel sticks work perfectly)
- 1 cup of dry roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, based on preference)
- 2 cups of Honey Nut Cheerios
- 1½ cups of red and green M&Ms (holiday-themed or your favorite chocolate candy)
- 12 ounces of white chocolate chips (melted for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts, and Honey Nut Cheerios. Toss gently to ensure an even distribution of all ingredients. Using a large bowl is key to making mixing easy and mess-free.
2. Melt the White Chocolate
Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for about one minute. Stir well to ensure the remaining chips melt completely. If needed, microwave in additional 10-second intervals, stirring after each round.
3. Coat the Mix
Pour the melted white chocolate over the dry mix. Using a spatula, gently stir until the ingredients are coated. Don’t worry if the coating isn’t perfectly even; a little variety adds texture and character to the mix.
4. Add the Festive Touch
Sprinkle the M&Ms over the mix and gently fold them in. The red and green candies add a cheerful pop of color that screams Christmas spirit.
5. Spread and Set
Spread the mixture onto a large, parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it sit at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator to set. Once the chocolate firms up, break the mixture into bite-sized pieces.
Storing and Serving
Store your Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container, such as a Tupperware or Ziploc bag, to maintain its crunch and freshness. It doesn’t require refrigeration, but keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting. This mix stays fresh for up to a week, making it an excellent make-ahead option for holiday entertaining.
Optional Add-Ins for a Personal Touch
Looking to switch things up? Here are some additional ingredients you can add for variety:
- Candy Canes: Crushed for a peppermint twist.
- Mini Marshmallows: Adds a chewy, sweet element.
- Reese’s Pieces: A peanut butter flavor for the chocolate lovers.
- Butter Mints: Perfect for a refreshing finish.
- Skittles or Jelly Beans: Adds a fruity surprise.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Chocolate: Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and a smooth, creamy coating.
- Mix Gently: When combining the chocolate and dry ingredients, stir slowly to avoid crushing the cereal and pretzels.
- Use Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and less sticking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before spreading the mix.
Make This Recipe Your Own
What makes this Christmas Chex Mix truly special is how easily you can tailor it to your taste and creativity. Whether you’re adding peppermint bark or sprinkling in festive glitter sugar, this recipe is all about having fun in the kitchen and spreading holiday joy.
So, grab a bowl, your favorite ingredients, and let’s get snacking! This Christmas Chex Mix will not only become a staple in your holiday celebrations but also a cherished tradition for years to come. Happy holidays!
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.