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This Halloween Chex Mix has become my go-to snack for fall gatherings and trick-or-treat nights when everyone craves something fun and just a little bit different. Sweet cinnamon and vanilla coat each hearty piece, and the mix of candy, pretzels, and chips makes every handful unique. It is festive, easy to make in advance, and flexible enough to use whatever treats you have left at home.
I made this mix for my kids’ classroom Halloween party last year, and I had to send the recipe home with three parents—I barely got to snag a bowl myself. The combination of colors and textures always feels special.
Ingredients
- Corn Chex Cereal: This cereal forms a crisp, sturdy base for the mix and holds up to the flavorful coating well
- Wheat Chex Cereal: Adds whole grain crunch and substance plus its hearty flavor works perfectly with the spices
- Cinnamon Teddy Grahams: Offer warm spice and a crunchy cookie note—look for ones with whole ingredients for best flavor
- Unsalted Butter: Ensure richness in the coating—use high-quality butter for depth
- Light Brown Sugar: Brings sweetness with subtle caramel notes and helps everything stick together
- Ground Cinnamon: Lends warmth and an autumn scent—choose fresh spices for the best aroma
- Kosher Salt: Balances the sweet additions and brings out each individual flavor
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Fragrant and sweetens the whole batch—splurge on real extract if possible
- Candy Corn or Candy Pumpkins: Add iconic Halloween color and sweetness—choose the freshest, softest bag
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Deliver salt, crunch, and a rich chocolate bite
- Salted Sweet Potato Chips: Give a pop of color and unique snap—a sturdy kettle-cooked chip holds up best
- Reese’s Pieces: Bring peanut butter taste and extra fall color—pick up a fresh bag for the brightest look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl combine the Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, and Cinnamon Teddy Grahams. In a separate smaller bowl whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until well blended and the sugar has mostly dissolved.
- Coat the Cereal:
- Pour about a third of the butter mixture slowly over the dry mix. Gently toss with a spatula or clean hand to begin coating. Repeat twice more in thirds tossing between additions until every piece is lightly glossy and you smell the sweet buttery scent.
- Spread on Baking Sheets:
- Divide the coated mix evenly over two rimmed baking sheets lined up side by side. Try to make each layer as even as possible so everything toasts without crowding.
- Bake and Toss:
- Place the trays in the oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes. Every 15 minutes use a spatula to toss and gently flip the pieces. Watch for the mix to turn golden brown and smell toasted. The mix should feel dry but not hard when you check a piece.
- Cool and Finish:
- Allow the trays to sit until the mix feels completely cool—about 20 minutes. Stir in the candy corn or pumpkins, chocolate pretzels, sweet potato chips, and Reese’s Pieces. Gently toss to combine without crushing any of the mix-ins.
- Storage for Later:
- Pour the finished Chex Mix into an airtight tin or sealed plastic container. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks for the freshest crunch.
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The sweet potato chips are my secret favorite ingredient. They add the boldest orange and a salty snap that gets my family fighting over the last handful. Even my mom, who claimed she hated sweet potato chips, is now a huge fan because of this mix.
Storage Tips
Keep your Chex Mix in a tightly sealed container to maintain crispness. Air exposure causes chips and cereal to soften early. If you are making a batch well ahead, stash it in several smaller containers so you open only what you need.
Good Substitutions
If you cannot find Teddy Grahams any mini cinnamon cookie will work. Use regular pretzels if chocolate is unavailable. Popcorn adds a fun variation. Substitute candies with M&M’s or seasonal chocolate if Reese’s Pieces are not on hand. If you skip the sweet potato chips aim for another crunchy, colorful chip.
Serving Suggestions
Pour the finished mix into a big cauldron or black bowl for Halloween parties. Portion into small treat bags for handing out to trick-or-treaters or as party favors. Kids also love packing a scoop into lunchboxes all week long.
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Cultural History
Halloween snack mixes began as a way to use up leftover candy and cookies from the holiday. The Chex cereal party mix itself has been an American snack favorite for decades—this Halloween version with candy and chips has become a modern staple in homes like mine where kids always hope extra sweets will get thrown in.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What gives this mix its sweet and salty balance?
The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla creates sweetness while salt offsets these flavors, and the salted chips and pretzels add crunch and saltiness.
- → Can this snack mix be prepared in advance?
Yes, it can be made up to two weeks ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- → What ingredients add a festive touch to the mix?
Candy corn, chocolate-covered pretzels, and orange sweet potato chips contribute bright colors and seasonal flavors.
- → How is the crunchy texture achieved?
Toasting the coated cereal and grahams in the oven ensures a crisp, crunchy texture that holds up well once mixed with candies.
- → Are there any unique flavor notes in this blend?
Warm cinnamon and vanilla add aromatic depth, while the combination of sweet, salty, and slightly nutty ingredients creates complexity.