chex mix recipe oven

C. Sophie

Try this easy Chex Mix recipe oven for a delicious, crispy snack! Perfect for gatherings, it’s simple, savory, and sure to satisfy your cravings.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 10

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Chex Cereal Rice, Corn, or Wheat
The base of your Chex Mix providing the signature crunch and texture. Use a combination of Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Wheat Chex for variety, or pick your favorite! Rice Chex is a bit lighter, while Corn Chex offers a sweet note, and Wheat Chex gives a nutty flavor.
Pretzels
Choose small pretzel twists or pretzel sticks—they’re perfect for adding a salty crunch to your mix. Opt for mini pretzels if you want bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
Nuts
Cashews peanuts, and almonds are popular options. These nuts not only add texture but also a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the seasonings. If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different crunch, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as alternatives.
Cheese Crackers
Adding cheese crackers like Goldfish or Cheez-It enhances the cheesy flavor of your Chex Mix. They bring an extra layer of deliciousness and make the snack even more indulgent.

Butter
Melted unsalted butter is the binding agent that ensures all the dry ingredients are coated in the perfect amount of richness. You can swap for olive oil or coconut oil if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
Worcestershire Sauce
This ingredient brings a distinct savory flavor to the mix. It’s a key component in creating that classic Chex Mix taste. The tangy slightly spicy flavor works wonders to enhance the other seasonings.
Seasonings
Here’s where the magic happens. The right seasonings can elevate your Chex Mix from simple to scrumptious. Use:
Garlic powder for a rich aromatic depth.
Onion powder to add a mild savory note.
Seasoned salt for an extra salty kick adjust to taste.
Paprika for a mild smoky flavor.
Black pepper for a little heat.
If you like things spicy don’t be shy with the cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a more savory profile, consider adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Sugar Optional
If you want to add a hint of sweetness consider adding a small amount of brown sugar or granulated sugar. A touch of sweetness will balance out the savory flavors for a more complex taste.

M&Ms or Chocolate Chips
For those with a sweet tooth adding chocolate pieces or M&Ms will turn your Chex Mix into a delicious sweet and salty treat.
Dried Fruit
Craisins raisins, or dried cranberries can add a bit of tartness that contrasts nicely with the salty ingredients. They’ll also introduce a chewy texture that balances the crunch.
Bagel Chips
Crushed bagel chips are a great way to add a crunchy bite with an additional flavor dimension. You can use mini bagel chips or break up larger ones into bite-sized pieces.

Before you start mixing, it’s important to preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). A low temperature ensures that your Chex Mix bakes evenly, getting crispy without burning. It also gives the seasoning time to infuse all the ingredients with flavor.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents your Chex Mix from sticking. If you don’t have either of these, just lightly grease the sheet with some butter or oil.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients. Start by adding the Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, and/or Wheat), pretzels, nuts, and cheese crackers. Gently stir them together, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. You can use a spatula or even your hands to mix, but be gentle to avoid crushing the delicate Chex pieces.
Pro Tip: If you’re adding any optional ingredients like M&Ms or chocolate chips, now’s the time to toss them in (but only if you want them to stay intact through baking; otherwise, wait until after baking).

In a separate bowl, melt butter in the microwave or on the stove (about 1 minute). Once melted, add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, seasoned salt, black pepper, and any other spices or seasonings you prefer.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of seasoning to your personal taste. If you like it extra spicy, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you prefer a savory flavor, increase the garlic powder and onion powder.

Slowly pour the seasoning mixture over the dry ingredients, tossing gently as you go to ensure that everything is evenly coated. It’s important to cover each piece with the buttery, flavorful seasoning for maximum taste in every bite. Be thorough, but again, be careful not to break the cereal or crackers.
Pro Tip: Use two large spoons or spatulas to gently toss the mixture. This will ensure the seasonings are well distributed without crushing the cereal or crackers.

Now, transfer your seasoned mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, making sure the pieces are in a single layer for even baking. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure that the Chex Mix cooks evenly. This constant stirring helps prevent burning while making sure everything gets perfectly crispy.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the stirring! Stirring every 15 minutes helps the mix bake evenly, preventing certain areas from getting overcooked or too dry while others stay soggy.

Once your Chex Mix is golden brown and crisp, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up even more as it cools. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also portion it into smaller bags for easy snacking on the go.
Pro Tip: If you're planning on storing it for a long period, you can freeze your Chex Mix for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Keyword Chex Mix, Homemade Chex Mix, Oven Snack, Snack Recipe