This Party Sweet and Salty Snack Mix is the ultimate easy party snack made with pretzels, Chex cereal, popcorn, and chocolate. Perfectly crunchy with the best balance of sweet and salty flavors, this homemade snack mix comes together fast, is totally customizable, and is guaranteed to disappear at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini pretzels twists or sticks
- 2 cups Chex cereal rice or corn
- 3 cups air-popped popcorn fully cooled
- 1 cup peanuts or mixed nuts
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chocolate candies or chocolate chips added after cooling
- Pinch of salt optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzels, Chex cereal, popcorn, and nuts. Toss gently.
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the butter mixture over the snack mix and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Spread mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring once halfway through for even coating.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Once fully cooled, stir in chocolate candies or chocolate chips.
- Break apart clusters and serve.
Notes
- Make sure popcorn is completely cooled before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- Do not add chocolate until the mix has cooled, or it will melt.
- The mix will continue to crisp as it cools—don’t overbake.