Ingredients
Scale
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Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex (gluten-free)
- 1–2 cups mini pretzels
- 1 cup salted peanuts or mixed nuts
- 1 cup M&Ms (or candy of your choice)
- 1 cup Honey-Nut Cheerios
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For the White Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or coconut oil, optional for dairy-free)
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Optional Mix-Ins & Variations:
- Candy corn (Halloween)
- Chocolate eggs (Easter)
- Red and green M&Ms, holiday sprinkles (Christmas)
- Mini marshmallows
- Coconut flakes
- Butterscotch chips
- Peanut butter (2 tbsp melted, for a peanut butter flavor)
- Cinnamon (for a spiced twist)
Instructions
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Prepare the Workspace:
- Line 3 large baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. These will be used to spread the mix while it cools.
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Set Up Stations:
- Mixing Station: In the largest bowl you have, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts or mixed nuts, M&Ms, and Honey-Nut Cheerios.
- Melting Station: Near the microwave, place the white chocolate chips and oil (if using).
- Cooling Station: Place the lined baking sheets for spreading the mixture later.
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Melt the White Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with the oil at 70% power for 1 minute. Stir. If it’s not fully melted, continue to heat in 10-15 second bursts, stirring between each burst until smooth.
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Combine the Mixture:
- Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mix. Stir gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Work quickly as the chocolate sets fast.
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Set and Cool:
- Spread the coated mix evenly on the prepared baking sheets. Let it cool and set at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up the process.
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Store and Serve:
- Once set, break the mixture into pieces and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free pretzels and certified gluten-free cereals (like Rice Chex or Corn Chex).
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular white chocolate chips for dairy-free alternatives.
- Nut-Free: Omit peanuts and replace them with more pretzels or cereal.
- Sugar Balance: For a less sugary mix, combine sugary cereals (like Honey-Nut Cheerios) with non-sweetened ones (like Rice Chex).
- Serving Tip: If gifting, package in clear cellophane bags, mason jars, or festive tins with ribbons or tags for a professional touch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes (for measuring and setting up your stations).
- Cook Time: 2-3 minutes (to melt the white chocolate and coat the mix).
- Category: Snack / Dessert
- Method: Melting (for the white chocolate) and mixing.
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free