Begin by preparing your workspace. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet
with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This low oven temperature allows the mix to
dry evenly without burning, ensuring a crisp final texture.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed, then
set aside. This cinnamon-sugar blend will be used later to coat the snack mix and give it its
churro-inspired flavor.
In a large heat-safe mixing bowl, combine the rice Chex cereal, corn Chex cereal, and pretzel
sticks. Gently toss them together so the ingredients are evenly distributed. Using a large bowl
is important, as it allows you to mix without crushing the cereal.
Next, prepare the caramel butter sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter.
Once melted, add the light brown sugar and the caramels. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and
burning. As the mixture heats, the caramels will slowly melt into the butter and sugar, forming a
smooth, glossy sauce. This step requires patience, but steady stirring will ensure the best results.
When the sauce is fully melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla
extract. Be careful, as the mixture may bubble slightly when the vanilla is added. Stir until fully
incorporated.
Carefully pour the warm caramel butter sauce over the cereal and pretzel mixture. Using a spatula
or large spoon, gently fold the mixture until all pieces are evenly coated. Take your time with
this step to avoid breaking the cereal.
Spread the coated mix evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Place it in the preheated oven and
bake for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This helps the coating distribute evenly and
prevents clumping.
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over
the warm snack mix. Toss gently to coat all pieces. Allow the mix to cool completely on the baking
sheet. As it cools, the coating will set, creating a crisp, crunchy texture.
Serving and Storage:
This churro-inspired Chex mix is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed
on its own as a snack, served in decorative bowls at parties, or portioned into small bags or jars
as gifts. Its sweet aroma and golden color make it especially appealing during holidays, school
celebrations, or family gatherings.
For storage, make sure the mix is completely cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Stored at room temperature, it will remain fresh and crunchy for up to one week. If you live in a
humid environment, consider adding a paper towel to the container to absorb excess moisture.
Avoid refrigerating this snack mix, as cold temperatures can cause the coating to harden unevenly
and affect texture. Properly sealed containers are the key to maintaining its signature crunch.
Tips:
To ensure the best results, use fresh cereal and pretzels, as stale ingredients can impact the final
texture. Stir gently and thoroughly at each stage to achieve even coating without breakage.
If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can slightly increase the amount of ground cinnamon
in the sugar mixture. For a milder taste, reduce it slightly. Always taste the cinnamon sugar before
sprinkling to ensure it matches your preference.
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking. If you
notice any large clusters forming, gently break them apart while the mix is still warm.
Conclusion:
This Cinnamon Carnival Crunch snack mix is a celebration of comforting flavors and homemade charm.
By combining the familiar crunch of Chex cereal and pretzels with buttery caramel and cinnamon
sugar, this recipe delivers a dessert-inspired snack that feels both nostalgic and new.
The process is simple enough for beginners, yet rewarding for experienced home cooks who enjoy
customizing their treats. With clear steps, accessible ingredients, and flexible serving options,
this churro-inspired mix is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy throughout the week, this
snack mix offers a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch that keeps everyone reaching
for more.
FAQ:
Can I use only one type of Chex cereal?
Yes, you can use only rice or only corn Chex if you prefer. The combination adds variety in texture,
but the recipe will still work with a single type.
How do I prevent the mix from sticking together?
Stirring the mix during baking and spreading it evenly on the baking sheet helps prevent large
clumps. Sprinkling the cinnamon sugar while the mix is warm also ensures even coverage.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, it can be doubled for larger gatherings. Just make sure to use multiple baking sheets so the
mix bakes evenly and does not overcrowd the oven.
Is this snack suitable for gifting?
Absolutely. Once cooled, package it in airtight bags or jars with a label for a thoughtful and
homemade gift.