Easy Recipe for White Trash: A Sweet and Salty Snack Mix

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Looking for a quick and delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than the recipe for white trash. This easy-to-make treat combines sweet and salty flavors into a irresistible mix that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, white trash is a versatile option that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

You’ll love how this no-bake dessert comes together in just minutes using common ingredients like white chocolate chips, cereal, and dried fruit. The white trash recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins like peanuts or M&M’s for extra crunch and flavor. With its festive colors and addictive taste, this snack mix makes a great holiday treat or homemade gift idea. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

What is White Trash?

White trash is a sweet and salty snack mix that has become a popular treat, especially during the holiday season. This easy-to-make recipe for white trash combines a variety of ingredients, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. You’ll find it’s a versatile and customizable snack that’s perfect for parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying at home.

Origin of the name

The name “white trash” might raise eyebrows, but it’s not meant to be offensive. Instead, it refers to the hodgepodge nature of the ingredients used. The recipe got its name because it uses up odds and ends from your pantry that might otherwise go to waste. Some people even make it in a clean trash bag, adding all the dry ingredients and melted chocolate before shaking to coat everything.

Common ingredients

The recipe for white trash typically includes a mix of cereals, pretzels, nuts, and candies, all coated in white chocolate or almond bark. Here are some common ingredients you might find in a white trash recipe:

  1. Cereals: Chex (rice or corn), Cheerios, or Golden Grahams are popular choices.
  2. Pretzels: Small pretzels or pretzel sticks add a salty crunch.
  3. Nuts: Peanuts are common, but you can use any type of nut.
  4. Candies: M&M’s are a favorite addition, providing color and sweetness.
  5. White chocolate: This serves as the coating that holds everything together.

The beauty of this snack mix is that you can use whatever you have on hand. Some recipes even include popcorn, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate for variety.

Versatility of the recipe

One of the best things about the recipe for white trash is how adaptable it is. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ways to make this snack mix your own:

  1. Cereal choices: Mix and match different cereals for unique flavors and textures.
  2. Nut options: Swap peanuts for almonds, cashews, or a mix of your favorite nuts.
  3. Chocolate variations: Try dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
  4. Add-ins: Include dried fruits, seasonal spices, or extra chocolate chips for more flavor.
  5. Dietary adjustments: Use gluten-free pretzels to make a gluten-free version.

The versatility of white trash makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings, homemade gifts, or as a quick snack. You can easily scale up the recipe to make larger batches for parties or package it in festive bags or jars for gift-giving.

Whether you call it white trash, Christmas trash, or white chocolate trail mix, this sweet and salty treat is sure to be a hit. Its simplicity, combined with the endless possibilities for customization, makes it a go-to recipe for many. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create your own delicious version of this popular snack mix.

Ingredients

To make this delicious white trash recipe, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that combine sweet and salty flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Cereals

The base of your white trash snack mix typically includes a combination of cereals. You can use:

  • 6 cups of Corn Chex cereal
  • 2 cups of Rice Chex cereal
  • 2 cups of plain Cheerios

You can also experiment with other cereals like Golden Grahams for added flavor and crunch. The combination of different cereals provides a variety of textures and tastes in your snack mix.

Pretzels

Pretzels add a salty crunch to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients. Include:

  • 6 cups of small pretzels or mini pretzels

Rold Gold Tiny Twist pretzels are often recommended for this recipe, but you can use any brand you prefer. You can also use pretzel sticks for a different shape and texture.

Nuts

Nuts contribute to the savory aspect of the snack mix and provide additional crunch. Add:

  • 1 16-oz jar of dry roasted peanuts

Dry roasted peanuts are preferred over cocktail or party peanuts for this recipe. You can adjust the amount of nuts to your liking or even experiment with other types of nuts like almonds or cashews.

Candies

To add color and extra sweetness to your white trash snack mix, include:

  • 1 11-oz bag of plain M&M’s

M&M’s not only provide a burst of chocolate flavor but also add festive colors to your mix. You can use holiday-themed M&M’s to match specific occasions or seasons.

White chocolate

The key ingredient that binds everything together is white chocolate. You’ll need:

  • 2 12-oz bags of white chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

White chocolate chips or “premium white morsels” are used to coat the other ingredients. The vegetable oil helps achieve a smoother consistency when melting the chocolate. Some recipes may call for white almond bark instead of white chocolate chips.

Optional ingredients:

  • Sprinkles for added color and festivity
  • Other mix-ins like dried fruit, popcorn, or different types of chocolate chips

When gathering your ingredients, keep in mind that this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the quantities or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. The versatility of this white trash recipe allows you to create a snack mix that’s perfect for your taste buds.

Remember to have a large mixing bowl ready to combine all these ingredients. You’ll also need parchment paper or a baking sheet for spreading out the mixture once it’s coated with white chocolate. With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious and easy no-bake dessert that’s perfect for parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying as a sweet and salty snack.

Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients for your white trash recipe, it’s time to put everything together. This easy no-bake dessert comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a quick snack fix.

Mixing dry ingredients

To start, you’ll need to combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Make sure to use a bowl with tall sides to prevent the mixture from spilling out as you stir. Add the Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Cheerios, pretzels, peanuts, and M&M’s to the bowl. Gently mix these ingredients together, being careful not to crush the cereal or pretzels. This combination of cereals, nuts, and candies creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors in your white trash snack mix.

Melting white chocolate

The next step is to melt the white chocolate, which will serve as the binding agent for your snack mix. You have two options for melting the white chocolate chips: using a microwave or a double boiler. If you’re using a microwave, place the white chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst. Continue this process for about 1.5 minutes, then switch to 15-second intervals if needed until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

For those who prefer using a double boiler, set a heatproof bowl over a pan of barely simmering water. Add the white chocolate chips and vegetable oil to the bowl, stirring occasionally until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Whichever method you choose, be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to become grainy and develop a burnt taste.

Coating the mixture

Once your white chocolate is melted and smooth, it’s time to coat the dry ingredients. Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture in your large bowl. Using a rubber spatula or large spoon, gently fold the melted chocolate into the dry ingredients. Stir carefully to ensure that everything is evenly coated without breaking the pretzels or cereal pieces. The goal is to have well-coated chunks and hunks of the snack mix.

Setting and breaking into pieces

After you’ve thoroughly coated the mixture, it’s time to let it set. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Spread the coated white trash mixture onto the prepared sheet in an even layer. Some recipes suggest placing the baking sheet in an empty oven (turned off) overnight to let it harden. Alternatively, you can leave it on the counter at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap.

Once the white chocolate has completely set and hardened (which typically takes 1-2 hours), you can break the white trash into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Use your hands to gently break apart the mixture into chunks of your desired size. If you want to add an extra festive touch, you can sprinkle some additional M&M’s or colorful sprinkles on top while the chocolate is still wet.

Store your homemade white trash in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing leftovers in the refrigerator, as the cold air can cause the cereal to become soft and stale. With proper storage, your white trash snack mix should stay fresh and delicious for several days, making it a great make-ahead treat for parties or gift-giving.

This easy recipe for white trash results in a sweet and salty snack mix that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different cereals, nuts, or dried fruits to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re making it for a holiday treat, a homemade gift, or just a tasty snack, this white trash recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Nutritional Information

When you’re indulging in this delicious recipe for white trash, it’s helpful to understand its nutritional content. While this sweet and salty snack mix is undoubtedly tasty, it’s important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Calorie content

The calorie content of white trash can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size. However, based on a typical recipe, a 28-gram serving (about 1 ounce) of white trash contains approximately 131 calories. This means that white trash has a relatively high calorie density, with about 466 calories per 100 grams. Keep this in mind when enjoying this treat, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Macronutrients

The macronutrient breakdown of white trash reflects its mix of ingredients, including cereals, nuts, and white chocolate. For a 28-gram serving:

  • Carbohydrates: About 19 grams, making up 61% of the total calories
  • Fats: Approximately 5 grams, accounting for 34% of the calories
  • Protein: Around 2 grams, contributing 5% of the total calorie content

It’s worth noting that white trash is relatively high in sugar, with about 11 grams per serving. This is due to the white chocolate coating and the inclusion of candies like M&M’s in many recipes.

The fat content includes about 4 grams of saturated fat, which comes primarily from the white chocolate. While fats are an essential part of our diet, it’s recommended to limit saturated fat intake for heart health.

Serving size

Determining an appropriate serving size for white trash can help you enjoy this treat without overindulging. A typical serving is around 28 grams or about 1 ounce. This amount provides a good balance of flavors and textures without contributing excessive calories to your diet.

When preparing white trash as a snack or for gatherings, consider portioning it into individual servings. This can help with portion control and make it easier to track your intake. You might use small bags or containers to pre-portion the mix, which can be especially helpful if you’re using it as a gift or party favor.

It’s also important to note that white trash contains minimal amounts of fiber (about 0.4 grams per serving) and doesn’t provide significant amounts of vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain small amounts of calcium (34mg) and iron (1mg) per serving.

While white trash is a delicious treat, it’s best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your diet. Its high calorie and sugar content mean it should be consumed in moderation. If you’re looking to make a healthier version, you might consider using dark chocolate instead of white chocolate, incorporating more nuts for protein and healthy fats, or adding dried fruits for natural sweetness and additional nutrients.

Remember, the key to enjoying treats like white trash is balance. Pair it with nutrient-dense foods throughout your day and maintain an overall healthy eating pattern. And of course, savor every bite of this sweet and salty snack mix when you do indulge!

FAQs

Storage tips

You’ll be happy to know that storing your white trash recipe is a breeze. Keep your delicious snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature, and it should stay fresh for up to a week. There’s no need to refrigerate this treat, but if you prefer your candy chilled, you can store it in the fridge. However, keep in mind that cold temperatures might make the cereal taste stale, so room temperature storage is generally recommended.

If you’re wondering about freezing your white trash snack mix, it’s best to avoid it. The white chocolate coating helps preserve the mix nicely, making freezing unnecessary. Plus, freezing and thawing might affect the texture of your snack.

Ingredient substitutions

One of the best things about the recipe for white trash is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are some substitution ideas:

  1. Cereal options: While Chex is a popular choice, you can use other cereals like Crispix, Golden Grahams, or even Cap’n Crunch for a different flavor profile.
  2. Chocolate alternatives: If you don’t have white chocolate chips, almond bark makes an excellent substitute. It’s an artificial chocolate often used in place of white chocolate.
  3. Nut variations: Feel free to use different types of nuts or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. The pretzels will still provide that salty crunch.
  4. Candy choices: Swap M&M’s for Reese’s Pieces or add marshmallows for extra sweetness.
  5. Additional mix-ins: Get creative by adding potato chips, Fritos, or even popcorn to your white trash mix.

Remember, if you’re adding extra ingredients, you might need to increase the amount of white chocolate coating to ensure everything is well-covered.

Making ahead

White trash is an excellent make-ahead treat, perfect for parties or gift-giving. You can prepare this snack mix well in advance, as it stays fresh for 1-2 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container. This long shelf life means you don’t have to worry about making it at the last minute for a gathering.

To add a festive touch when making white trash ahead of time, consider using holiday-themed M&M’s or adding colorful sprinkles. This simple trick can transform your snack mix into a perfect treat for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any other special occasion.

When making your white trash recipe ahead, here are a few tips to ensure the best results:

  1. Allow the mixture to cool and set completely before storing it. This helps maintain the crunchiness of the cereal and pretzels.
  2. If you’re using this as a homemade gift, consider portioning it into individual servings using small bags or containers. This not only looks great but also helps with portion control.
  3. For the best flavor and texture, try to consume the mix within the first week, even though it can last up to two weeks.

Remember, the beauty of this easy recipe for white trash lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether you’re making it ahead for a party, as a thoughtful homemade gift, or just as a tasty snack for yourself, this sweet and salty mix is sure to be a hit.

Why Make White Trash?

Quick and easy

You’ll love how this recipe for white trash comes together in no time. It’s a snack mix you can whip up in about 10 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings or when you need a quick treat. The simplicity of this no-bake dessert means you can have a delicious snack ready without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe is ideal for busy holiday seasons when you want to share something homemade but don’t have much time to spare.

Customizable

One of the best things about white trash recipes is their versatility. You have the freedom to customize the mix based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. While the classic version typically includes cereals like Chex, pretzels, and peanuts, you can easily swap ingredients to create your own unique blend. Try using different cereals, swapping peanuts for other nuts, or adding dried fruit for a twist. You can even use holiday-themed M&M’s or add sprinkles to make it more festive for specific occasions. This flexibility allows you to create a snack mix that’s tailored to your taste or dietary needs.

Perfect for gifting

White trash candy makes an excellent homemade gift, especially during the holiday season. Its long shelf life (up to two weeks when stored properly) means you can prepare it well in advance. Package your white trash snack in cellophane bags or cute jars with lids, tie them with a festive ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, homemade gift ready to go. It’s a great option for teacher gifts, neighbor presents, or as a unique addition to cookie plates. The combination of sweet and salty flavors in this treat makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your gift will be well-received.

Kid-friendly recipe

This white trash recipe is not only easy for adults to make, but it’s also a fun project to involve children in the kitchen. Kids can help measure and mix the dry ingredients, which is a great way to introduce them to basic cooking skills. The no-bake nature of this recipe means there’s no need to worry about hot ovens or stovetops, making it a safe cooking activity for children. Plus, the colorful M&M’s and the fun of breaking the mixture into pieces once it’s set can be exciting for kids. It’s a recipe that allows for creativity and can be a enjoyable family activity, especially during holidays or school breaks.

White trash is more than just a simple snack mix; it’s a versatile treat that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings, a customizable snack to use up leftover cereals, a thoughtful homemade gift, or a fun cooking project to do with kids, this recipe fits the bill. Its adaptability means you can make it your own, experimenting with different ingredients to create your perfect blend.

The combination of crunchy cereals, salty pretzels, nuts, and sweet white chocolate creates a satisfying texture and flavor profile that’s hard to resist. The addition of colorful M&M’s not only adds a pop of color but also contributes to the festive appearance, making it suitable for various occasions throughout the year.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Even if you’re not confident in the kitchen, you can successfully make this treat. It’s a great way to build confidence in your cooking abilities while creating something delicious.

Remember, while white trash is a delightful treat, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and sugar content. But when you do indulge, you’ll find that this easy-to-make snack mix is a satisfying way to treat yourself or share something special with others. Whether you’re making it for a party, as a gift, or just as a fun family activity, this recipe for white trash is sure to become a favorite in your household.


If you like the recipe, don't forget to share it.