As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of fall. One of the best ways to celebrate the season is with a delicious snack. Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix brings together the warm tastes of pumpkin and spices, creating a crunchy, sweet treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a movie, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is not just tasty; it’s also easy to make and perfect for sharing. It’s a delightful mix that combines different textures and flavors. Plus, it makes your home smell wonderful while baking! You can enjoy it as a snack, use it as a topping for your favorite desserts, or package it up for gifts. This recipe is versatile, festive, and has that wonderful fall flavor everyone craves.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Making Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is simple and fun. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup pecans or your favorite nuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, and nuts. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugars are dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the pumpkin spice mixture over the Chex mix, stirring gently to coat. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- For the optional drizzle, melt the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth. Drizzle over the baked Chex mix once cooled slightly.
- Allow to cool completely, break into pieces, and transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container for storage.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Serve Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix in a big bowl for everyone to enjoy. It’s great for snacking while watching TV or at a fall gathering. You can also pack it into small treat bags for easy sharing or to give as gifts.
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Store your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last up to two weeks when stored properly. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the container!
Tips to Make Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
- Make sure to stir the mix every 15 minutes while baking to ensure even baking and avoid burning.
- Experiment with different nuts or add in some candy corn for an extra sweet touch!
- If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Variation
For a chocolate twist, you can add pumpkin-flavored chocolate candies or simply mix in some mini chocolate chips instead of white chocolate. You could also use different cereals, like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! You can use any nuts you like, such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews.
2. Is it necessary to use white chocolate?
No, the white chocolate drizzle is optional. The mix is delicious on its own without it.
3. How can I make it more savory?
You can skip the sugars and pumpkin puree and add some savory spices like garlic powder or onion powder for a unique twist.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix, and let the flavors of fall fill your home!
Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup pecans or your favorite nuts
Sweet Coating
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips optional
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, and nuts. Set aside.
Cooking
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugars are dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the pumpkin spice mixture over the Chex mix, stirring gently to coat.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
Drizzling (Optional)
- Melt the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Drizzle over the baked Chex mix once cooled slightly.
Finishing
- Allow to cool completely, break into pieces, and transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container for storage.