Experience the savory delight of this homemade buttered snack mix. It's a delicious blend of cereal, pretzels, and nuts, all seasoned with a special buttery blend that will tickle your taste buds. Ideal for parties, game nights, or just casual snacking, this recipe is easy to make and is sure to become a favorite.
The major ingredients for this recipe are quite common and should be easy to find in your local supermarket. However, you may need to look in the cereal aisle for the Chex and Cheerios cereals, if they are not usually in your pantry. In addition, the Worcestershire sauce needed for the seasoning may be found in the condiment section. Remember to check for 'unsalted butter' as many may usually buy the salted version.
Buttered Snack Mix Ingredients
Corn Chex: A crispy cereal that adds a light and crunchy texture to our snack mix.
Wheat Chex: Another variant of Chex cereal, this one brings in a mild wheat flavor.
Rice Chex: This adds another layer of crunch, and its light flavor balances the stronger ones in the mix.
Bite-sized pretzels: Their delightful crunch and mild saltiness make these tiny twists a key player.
Cheerios: This heart-healthy cereal contributes a distinct toasted whole grain flavor.
Salted nuts: They bring in a richness and satisfying crunch.
Unsalted butter: The base for our seasoning, it combines with the spices to create a delicious buttery coating.
Worcestershire sauce: A tangy, fermented sauce that adds depth to the seasoning.
Seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme: Combined, these spices create a flavorful seasoning that coats every piece of the snack mix.
One reader, Ina Dallas says:
This buttered snack mix recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory chex, pretzels, and nuts with the rich buttery seasoning is simply irresistible. It's the perfect snack for gatherings or movie nights. The aroma while it bakes is heavenly, and the taste is even better. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Buttered Snack Mix Recipe
How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees before starting to bake the snack mix. This ensures that the oven is fully heated and ready to bake the mix evenly.
How to combine snack mix ingredients: Combine all the snack mix ingredients in a large disposable aluminum pan. This includes the corn chex, wheat chex, rice chex, pretzels, cheerios, and salted nuts.
How to make butter seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined to create the butter seasoning.
How to coat snack mix with seasoning: Slowly pour the butter seasoning over the snack mix, stirring as you go to ensure even coating. Continue stirring until the snack mix is well coated with the seasoning.
How to bake snack mix: Bake the coated snack mix in the preheated oven for 1-1/2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking.
How to cool and store snack mix: Once baked, let the snack mix cool before serving or storing it in an airtight container.
How to freeze snack mix: If freezing, cool the snack mix completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How To Make Buttered Snack Mix
This delicious snack mix is packed with a medley of flavors and texture, from Chex Mix, to nuts, to pretzels; all tossed in a savory butter seasoning!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Mix:
- 4cupscorn chex
- 4cupswheat chex
- 3cupsrice chex
- 3cupspretzels,skinny, bite-sized
- 2cupscheerios
- 1½cupsalted nuts
For Butter Seasoning:
- 10tbspunsalted butter,or vegetable oil
- 3tbspworcestershire sauce
- 2tspseasoned salt
- 1¼tspgarlic powder
- ¾tsponion powder
- ¾tspdried thyme
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.
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Combine all of the snack mix ingredients in a large disposable aluminum pan.
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Combine all of the butter seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until well combined. Pour slowly over snack mix, stirring to coat evenly. Continue stirring until snack mix is well coated with seasoning.
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Bake for 1½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes. Let cool.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1679.50kcal
- Fat: 63.29g
- Saturated Fat: 23.09g
- Trans Fat: 1.17g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 25.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.22g
- Carbohydrates: 256.96g
- Fiber: 22.15g
- Sugar: 17.22g
- Protein: 37.50g
- Cholesterol: 76.33mg
- Sodium: 3063.46mg
- Calcium: 474.20mg
- Potassium: 1224.02mg
- Iron: 50.17mg
- Vitamin A: 980.61µg
- Vitamin C: 30.13mg
Mastering the Art of Buttered Snack Mix
To ensure that your buttered snack mix has a consistent flavor throughout, it's crucial to stir the mix every 15 minutes while it's baking. This helps to distribute the butter seasoning evenly, preventing any part of the mix from becoming too salty or too bland. Additionally, using a large disposable aluminum pan can help with even heat distribution during baking, resulting in a perfectly toasted snack mix.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Buttered Snack Mix
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the snack mix. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.
Use disposable pans: Instead of using regular baking pans, opt for disposable aluminum pans. This will save time on cleanup, as you can simply discard the pans after use.
Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your workspace before you begin. Having everything easily accessible will streamline the cooking process and minimize any unnecessary back-and-forth.
Set a timer: Use a timer to remind you to stir the snack mix at regular intervals. This will ensure that it bakes evenly without requiring constant monitoring.
Preheat the oven in advance: Make sure to preheat the oven fully before placing the snack mix inside. This will prevent the initial surge of heat from burning the mix and save time during the baking process.
Label and store: If you plan to freeze the snack mix, be sure to label the container with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of its freshness and easily locate it in the freezer when needed.
Substitute Ingredients For Buttered Snack Mix Recipe
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corn chex – Substitute with rice cereal: Rice cereal can provide a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor to corn chex.
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wheat chex – Substitute with oat cereal: Oat cereal can offer a similar hearty texture and nutty flavor to wheat chex.
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rice chex – Substitute with quinoa cereal: Quinoa cereal can provide a similar light and crunchy texture to rice chex.
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skinny bite-sized pretzels – Substitute with mini breadsticks: Mini breadsticks can offer a similar salty and crunchy element to the snack mix.
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cheerios – Substitute with puffed rice cereal: Puffed rice cereal can provide a similar light and airy texture to cheerios.
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salted nuts – Substitute with roasted chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can offer a similar crunchy and savory element to the snack mix.
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unsalted butter – Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can provide a similar richness and flavor to the seasoning while accommodating dietary preferences.
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worcestershire sauce – Substitute with soy sauce and a dash of vinegar: This combination can provide a similar umami and tangy flavor to the seasoning.
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seasoned salt – Substitute with kosher salt and a pinch of paprika: This combination can offer a similar savory and slightly smoky flavor to the seasoning.
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garlic powder – Substitute with garlic granules: Garlic granules can provide a similar concentrated garlic flavor to the seasoning.
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onion powder – Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion can offer a similar savory and aromatic flavor to the seasoning.
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dried thyme – Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can provide a similar earthy and herbaceous flavor to the seasoning.
Presenting Your Buttered Snack Mix
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Elevate the snack mix with a gourmet twist: Elevate the traditional snack mix by incorporating high-quality ingredients such as artisanal chex, handcrafted pretzels, and premium nuts to add depth and sophistication to the dish.
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Create a visually stunning display: Arrange the snack mix in an elegant serving platter or a decorative bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the mix, creating an enticing visual appeal.
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Incorporate a touch of elegance with garnishes: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives on top of the snack mix to impart a touch of freshness and elevate the overall presentation.
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Serve in individual tasting bowls: Present the snack mix in individual tasting bowls or miniature serving cones to provide a refined and personalized dining experience for the esteemed guests.
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Pair with a curated selection of beverages: Accompany the snack mix with a thoughtfully selected array of craft beers, fine wines, or artisanal cocktails to complement the flavors and enhance the overall gourmet experience.
Essential Tools for Making Buttered Snack Mix
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Mixing bowls: You will need various sizes of mixing bowls to combine and toss the snack mix ingredients together.
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Whisk: A whisk will be used to combine the butter seasoning ingredients until well mixed.
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Large disposable aluminum pan: This will be used to bake the snack mix in the oven.
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Measuring cups and spoons: You will need these to accurately measure the ingredients for the snack mix and the butter seasoning.
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Spatula or wooden spoon: These will be used to stir and coat the snack mix evenly with the butter seasoning.
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Oven: The oven will be used to bake the snack mix at a low temperature to achieve a crispy texture.
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Airtight container: This will be used to store the snack mix after it has cooled.
Storing and Freezing Your Buttered Snack Mix
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Once the buttered snack mix has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent the mix from becoming stale.
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Store the container or bag of snack mix in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing it in areas with high humidity or direct sunlight, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the mix.
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When stored properly, the buttered snack mix should remain fresh and crispy for up to 2-3 weeks at room temperature. However, if you live in a particularly humid environment, the mix may lose its crispness more quickly.
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For longer storage, you can freeze the snack mix in an airtight container or freezer-safe plastic bag. Before freezing, make sure the mix has cooled completely to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
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To freeze, place the snack mix in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
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When properly frozen, the buttered snack mix can be stored for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality or flavor.
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To thaw the frozen snack mix, remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. If the mix seems a bit soggy after thawing, you can crisp it up by placing it in a preheated 250°F (120°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Once thawed, consume the snack mix within a week for the best texture and flavor. Avoid refreezing the mix, as this can cause it to become soggy and lose its crispness.
Reheating Leftover Buttered Snack Mix
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To reheat leftover buttered snack mix, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the snack mix in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mix is warm and crispy. This method helps to restore the crunchiness of the cereal, pretzels, and nuts.
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Another option is to use a microwave. Place a portion of the snack mix in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the desired temperature is reached. Be careful not to overheat the mix, as it can quickly burn in the microwave.
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For a quick and easy method, you can reheat the snack mix in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a portion of the mix in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir constantly for 3-5 minutes, or until the mix is heated through and slightly crispy. This method works well if you want to refresh a smaller portion of the snack mix.
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If you have stored the snack mix in the freezer, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before reheating. This will help to ensure that the mix reheats evenly and maintains its texture.
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Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on the snack mix to prevent burning. The butter and seasonings can cause the mix to burn quickly if left unattended or heated for too long.
Interesting Trivia About Buttered Snack Mix
The buttered snack mix recipe is a delicious and versatile snack that can be enjoyed on various occasions. It combines a mix of corn chex, wheat chex, rice chex, pretzels, cheerios, and salted nuts, all coated in a flavorful butter seasoning. The seasoning, made with unsalted butter, worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme, adds a savory and aromatic touch to the snack mix. This snack is freezer-friendly, allowing for convenient storage for up to three months. It's a perfect treat for gatherings, parties, or simply as a tasty snack.
Budget-Friendly Buttered Snack Mix Recipe
This buttered snack mix recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for ingredient substitutions based on availability, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, depending on the availability and brand of ingredients.
Is Buttered Snack Mix a Healthy Choice?
The buttered snack mix recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in calories due to the generous amount of butter and salted nuts
- It contains a significant amount of saturated fat from the butter, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess
- The snack mix is primarily made up of processed carbohydrates, such as Chex cereals, pretzels, and Cheerios, which offer little nutritional value
- The seasoning mix contains a considerable amount of sodium from the seasoned salt and Worcestershire sauce, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems when consumed in large quantities
To make this snack mix healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or coconut oil
- Use unsalted nuts instead of salted ones to reduce the overall sodium content
- Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Whole-grain cereals or pretzels for added fiber and nutrients
- Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for natural sweetness and antioxidants
- Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for healthy fats and protein
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt, such as:
- Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Cumin for an earthy, warm taste
- Cinnamon for a touch of sweetness and antioxidants
- Portion the snack mix into individual servings to help control calorie intake and prevent overeating
Editor's Take on This Buttered Snack Mix
The buttered snack mix recipe is a delightful combination of crunchy textures and savory flavors. The blend of corn, wheat, and rice chex, pretzels, cheerios, and salted nuts provides a satisfying base, while the butter seasoning infuses a rich and aromatic taste. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a perfectly seasoned snack mix. This recipe offers versatility, allowing for ingredient substitutions while maintaining the ideal snack mix to butter seasoning ratio. Whether enjoyed as a party snack or a quick bite, this buttered snack mix is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Why trust this Buttered Snack Mix Recipe:
This buttered snack mix recipe is a tried and true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. The combination of corn chex, wheat chex, rice chex, pretzels, cheerios, and salted nuts creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The butter seasoning, infused with unsalted butter, worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme, adds a rich and savory element that elevates the snack mix to a whole new level. With meticulous instructions and the flexibility to customize, this recipe promises a delectable and satisfying snack experience. Trust in this recipe to deliver a memorable and irresistible treat for all to enjoy.
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