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Easy Fall Chex Mix: Candy Corn & Pretzels

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This Easy Fall Chex Mix with Candy Corn and Pretzels is a quick, crunchy, and addictive snack that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy movie nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal (about one standard box)
  • 3 cups Corn Chex Cereal
  • 2 cups Pretzel Twists (small twists, not rods)
  • 1 ½ cups Candy Corn (fresh, such as Brach’s)
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter (1 stick, melted)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure)
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (packed)
  • ½ cup Roasted Salted Peanuts (optional)
  • ½ cup Dried Cranberries (optional)
  • ½ cup Pumpkin Seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and pretzels. Gently toss with your hands to distribute evenly.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 30-second bursts until fully melted (about 45 seconds total). Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Pour the butter mixture over the cereal and pretzels. Use a rubber spatula to scrape every last drop. Gently fold with a wooden spoon or spatula until all pieces are evenly coated, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to crush the Chex.
  5. Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through (after 10 minutes). The mix should be slightly dry to the touch but not crispy yet.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet, about 20-30 minutes. Do not rush this step.
  8. Once completely cool, transfer to a large bowl. Gently fold in the candy corn. If using optional add-ins (peanuts, dried cranberries, or pumpkin seeds), add them at the same time.
  9. Let the mix rest for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Do not add candy corn before baking or it will melt. Stir gently to avoid crushing the cereal. The mix tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pretzels and check labels. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To refresh crunch, bake at 250°F for 5 minutes and cool completely.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall chex mix, candy corn, pretzels, easy snack, Halloween snack, Thanksgiving appetizer, sweet and salty, party mix

Find it online: https://livelybite.com/easy-fall-chex-mix-candy-corn-and-pretzels/