This Bold and Buttery Homemade Chex Mix is crunchy, savory, and packed with rich buttery flavor in every bite. It’s baked low and slow so the seasoning coats every piece perfectly, making it far better than store-bought. This recipe is easy, customizable, and perfect for holidays, game days, parties, or anytime you need a snack that everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chex Mix is extra buttery, not dry, and full of bold flavor. It stays crispy for days, works for large batches, and can be adjusted to your taste. You control the salt, spice, and mix-ins, making it a reliable go-to snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Corn Chex
- 3 cups Rice Chex
- 3 cups Wheat Chex
- 1½ cups pretzel sticks or twists
- 1 cup bagel chips, broken into pieces
- 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews, or almonds)
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a very large bowl, combine Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, bagel chips, and mixed nuts. Gently toss to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Make the Buttery Seasoning
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until fully combined.
Step 4: Coat the Mix
Slowly pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture, tossing gently as you pour to make sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake Low and Slow
Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes so nothing burns and all pieces toast evenly.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and let the Chex Mix cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
Variations
- Add cheese crackers for extra richness
- Use spicy Chex for more heat
- Swap nuts for seeds to make it nut-free
- Add a teaspoon of ranch seasoning for a tangy twist
- Mix in popcorn after baking for a lighter snack
Cooking Notes
- Bake at low temperature to avoid burning
- Stir regularly for even flavor and crunch
- Use unsalted butter to control salt level
- Let cool fully before storing
- Do not overcrowd the pan
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in large bowls for parties
- Package in jars or bags for gifting
- Add to holiday snack boards
- Serve with drinks or cocktails
- Pair with sweet snacks for balance
Tips
- Use fresh cereal for best crunch
- Taste seasoning before baking and adjust
- Double the batch easily for crowds
- Store in airtight containers
- Keeps well for up to 1 week
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approx. 220 calories
14g fat
20g carbohydrates
4g protein
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for several days when stored properly.
How do I keep it crispy?
Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Can I make it less salty?
Reduce seasoned salt or use unsalted pretzels.
Can I make it spicy?
Add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the butter.
Can I freeze Chex Mix?
Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
Conclusion
Bold and Buttery Homemade Chex Mix is a classic snack done right. With deep buttery flavor, perfect crunch, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking.