Save A festive, crunchy snack mix with a sweet apple-cider glaze, perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.
This mix quickly became my go-to snack for festive occasions; it never lasts long!
Ingredients
- Dry Mix: 3 cups rice cereal squares (such as Rice Chex), 2 cups mini pretzels, 1 cup honey roasted peanuts, 1 cup dried apple chips broken into bite-sized pieces, 1 cup popcorn (plain air-popped)
- Cider Glaze: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar packed, 1/4 cup sparkling apple cider (non-alcoholic), 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine dry mix:
- In a large bowl, combine rice cereal, pretzels, peanuts, apple chips, and popcorn. Gently toss to mix.
- Make glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, sparkling cider, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer stirring frequently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Coat mix:
- Immediately pour the cider glaze over the dry mix. Toss gently with a spatula until evenly coated.
- Spread on sheet:
- Spread the mix evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes stirring once halfway through until the mix is golden and crisp.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. The mix will crisp as it cools.
- Serve or store:
- Once cooled break into clusters if needed and serve or store in an airtight container.
Save This snack often brings everyone together during the holidays it's a family favorite.
Notes
For extra flavor add a pinch of nutmeg or swap honey roasted peanuts with candied pecans.
Substitutions
Substitute apple chips with dried cranberries for a tangy twist.
Pairings
This mix pairs well with sparkling cider or festive mocktails.
Save This Party Mix is perfect for gifting or snacking enjoy every bite.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I substitute the peanuts in this mix?
Yes, you can swap honey roasted peanuts with candied pecans or other nuts to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- → How do I store the snack mix to keep it fresh?
Store cooled snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunchiness for up to a week.
- → Is sparkling apple cider necessary for the glaze?
Sparking apple cider adds a light fruity sweetness and bubbly texture, but you can use regular apple cider if needed.
- → What’s the best way to make the mix evenly coated?
Pour the warm cider glaze immediately over the dry mix and gently toss with a spatula to coat all pieces evenly before baking.
- → Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?
Yes, adding a pinch of nutmeg or extra cinnamon to the glaze provides additional warmth and depth to the snack.