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Caramel Pretzel Snack Mix Recipe

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3.9 from 1 review

This caramel pretzel snack mix is a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors. Made with mini pretzels, Rice Chex cereal, and salted peanuts coated in rich homemade caramel, it’s perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you want a quick, crowd-pleasing treat. The snack mix is easy to prepare, requiring just about 20 minutes, and features an optional festive touch with holiday sprinkles.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Snack Mix

  • 4 cups Mini Pretzels
  • 4 cups Rice Chex Cereal
  • 1 cup Salted Peanuts

Caramel Sauce

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Optional

  • 1/4 cup Holiday Sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool the snack mix later.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini pretzels, Rice Chex cereal, and salted peanuts. Stir gently to evenly mix all the components without breaking.
  3. Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the brown sugar and light corn syrup, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat immediately after bubbling.
  4. Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract into the hot caramel sauce. The baking soda will cause the caramel to bubble and lighten, creating a smoother texture.
  5. Combine Caramel with Snack Mix: Pour the hot caramel sauce over the pretzel mixture. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, toss and stir thoroughly to coat all the pretzels, cereal, and peanuts evenly with the caramel.
  6. Cool and Set: Quickly spread the caramel-coated snack mix onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, breaking apart any large clusters as it sets to ensure bite-sized pieces.
  7. Add Sprinkles (Optional): If desired, sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the mix while it is still slightly warm so they adhere well to the caramel coating.
  8. Store or Serve: Once cooled and fully set, transfer the snack mix to an airtight container for storage or serve immediately for a deliciously crunchy treat.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients for best crunch and optimal flavor.
  • Let the mix cool completely before storing to prevent stickiness and maintain texture.
  • Add holiday sprinkles or drizzle with chocolate for extra decorative flair and flavor variations.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://cozykitchenbymaya.com/caramel-pretzel-snack-mix-recipe/