If there's one thing that brings people together at parties, movie nights, or just casual snacking sessions, it's a big bowl of crispy snack mix. These addictive combinations of cereals, pretzels, nuts, and bold seasonings are easy to make at home, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. In this roundup, we're sharing some of the best crispy snack mix favorites that go beyond the classic versions. From savory and spicy to sweet and indulgent, these recipes will have you reaching for handful after handful. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or need a make-ahead treat for the holidays, these snack mixes are perfect for any occasion.
1. Classic Original Chex Party Mix
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The timeless classic that started it all, this original Chex party mix combines a variety of crunchy elements with a perfectly seasoned buttery coating that's savory and utterly addictive.
Ingredients
To make this beloved snack mix, you'll need 3 cups of corn Chex cereal, 3 cups of rice Chex cereal, 3 cups of wheat Chex cereal, 1 cup of mixed nuts, 1 cup of bite-sized pretzels, 1 cup of garlic-flavored bite-sized bagel chips or regular bagel chips, 6 tablespoons of butter or margarine, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 and a half teaspoons of seasoned salt, three-quarters teaspoon of garlic powder, and half teaspoon of onion powder.
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large roasting pan, combine the corn Chex, rice Chex, wheat Chex, mixed nuts, pretzels, and bagel chips, mixing them gently to distribute everything evenly. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter, then stir in the Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended. Slowly drizzle this seasoned butter mixture over the cereal mixture in the roasting pan, stirring carefully as you go to ensure every piece gets coated without breaking the delicate cereals. Once everything is evenly coated, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, making sure to stir the mix every 15 minutes to promote even crisping and prevent any burning. After baking, remove from the oven and spread the mix out on paper towels to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
This classic version is incredibly versatile—feel free to add more nuts or swap in your favorite Chex varieties. It's the perfect base for many variations and always disappears quickly at gatherings.
2. Spicy Sriracha Honey Chex Mix
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For those who love a kick of heat balanced with sweetness, this Sriracha honey version takes the traditional snack mix to a bold new level with its sticky, spicy glaze.
Ingredients
Gather together 4 cups of rice Chex cereal, 4 cups of corn Chex cereal, 2 cups of mini pretzels, 1 and a half cups of roasted peanuts, 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, one-third cup of honey, one-quarter cup of Sriracha sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder for that extra depth of flavor.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a very large bowl, combine the rice Chex, corn Chex, pretzels, and peanuts, tossing gently to mix. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and bubbling slightly. Pour this hot spicy honey mixture over the cereal blend in the bowl, stirring thoroughly with a spatula to coat every piece evenly. Transfer the coated mix to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in a single layer. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until the mix is crispy and the glaze has set. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet, where it will continue to crisp up, before breaking apart any clumps and storing.
The heat level can be adjusted by using more or less Sriracha, and this mix makes a fantastic gift when packaged in festive tins.
3. Sweet and Salty Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)
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This no-bake sweet treat, also known as muddy buddies, transforms Chex cereal into chocolate-peanut butter clusters dusted with powdered sugar for the ultimate indulgent snack.
Ingredients
You'll need 9 cups of rice Chex cereal, 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, half cup of creamy peanut butter, one-quarter cup of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 and a half cups of powdered sugar, and optionally a pinch of sea salt for that sweet-salty contrast.
Instructions
Measure the rice Chex cereal into a very large bowl and set it aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter, then microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this warm chocolate mixture over the cereal in the large bowl, gently folding with a spatula until all the cereal is evenly coated. Transfer the coated cereal to a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag or a large container with a lid, add the powdered sugar, and seal it tightly. Shake vigorously until every piece is well dusted with sugar. Spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet to cool and set before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Add mini pretzels or extra nuts for more texture, or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a festive twist—it's always a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Zesty Ranch Chex Mix
Infused with the tangy, herby flavors of ranch dressing, this version is savory and irresistible, making it a go-to for those who prefer cooler, creamier seasoning profiles.
Ingredients
Prepare 3 cups of corn Chex cereal, 3 cups of rice Chex cereal, 2 cups of wheat Chex cereal, 2 cups of mini pretzels, 1 cup of cheese crackers, 1 cup of roasted cashews or mixed nuts, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 packet of dry ranch dressing mix, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, half teaspoon of garlic powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added umami.
Instructions
Heat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large roasting pan or bowl, mix together the corn Chex, rice Chex, wheat Chex, pretzels, cheese crackers, and nuts. In a separate small bowl, whisk the melted butter with the ranch dressing mix, dried dill, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce until fully combined. Drizzle this ranch butter over the dry ingredients, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Spread the mixture onto baking sheets in a single layer and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until toasted and crispy. Cool completely before enjoying.
This ranch mix pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies on a snack platter, and you can amp up the herbs for an even bolder flavor.
5. Cinnamon Churro Chex Mix
Transform your snack mix into a dessert-like treat with warm cinnamon sugar coating that mimics the beloved churro flavor—crispy, sweet, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
Start with 9 cups of rice or corn Chex cereal, three-quarters cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, half cup of unsalted butter, one-quarter cup of light corn syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a smooth finish.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment. Place the Chex cereal in a large heatproof bowl. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. In a saucepan, melt the butter with the corn syrup over medium heat until bubbling, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour this hot mixture over the cereal, tossing quickly to coat. Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar over the coated cereal and toss again, repeating with the remaining sugar. Spread onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and crispy. Let cool completely, as the coating will harden.
Serve this churro mix warm for extra indulgence, or add white chocolate chips once cooled for a decadent upgrade.
6. Bold Buffalo Wing Chex Mix
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Bring the heat of buffalo wings to your snack bowl with this fiery mix that's tangy, spicy, and perfect for game day munching.
Ingredients
Combine 4 cups of corn Chex, 4 cups of rice Chex, 2 cups of pretzel sticks, 1 cup of peanuts, 6 tablespoons of butter, half cup of hot sauce like Frank's RedHot, 1 packet of ranch seasoning, 1 teaspoon of celery salt, and half teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix the cereals, pretzels, and peanuts in a large bowl. Melt the butter, then stir in the hot sauce, ranch seasoning, celery salt, and cayenne until blended. Pour over the dry mix and toss thoroughly. Spread on baking sheets and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool and store airtight.
Pair with blue cheese dip for the full wing experience, and adjust the hot sauce to your spice tolerance.
7. Traditional Nuts and Bolts Snack Mix
A hearty, old-fashioned favorite loaded with nuts and seasoned just right, this nuts and bolts mix is crunchy satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Use 2 cups of Cheerios, 2 cups of Shreddies or wheat Chex, 2 cups of pretzel sticks, 2 cups of mixed nuts, 1 cup of peanuts, half cup of butter, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Combine all dry ingredients in a large roasting pan. Melt butter and mix with seasonings and Worcestershire. Drizzle over the mix, stirring well. Bake for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Cool thoroughly.
This mix stores beautifully for weeks, making it ideal for holiday prep.
8. Garlic Parmesan Chex Mix
This savory twist coats every crunch with rich garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese, creating a sophisticated snack that's hard to stop eating.
Ingredients
Assemble 4 cups of corn Chex cereal, 4 cups of rice Chex cereal, 2 cups of wheat Chex cereal, 2 cups of mini pretzels, 1 cup of mixed nuts, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and half teaspoon of salt.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a big mixing bowl, gently combine the corn Chex, rice Chex, wheat Chex, pretzels, and nuts. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle this garlic butter over the cereal mixture, tossing carefully to coat evenly, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan over everything and toss again to distribute the cheese. Spread the mix in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting. Let it cool completely to achieve maximum crispiness before serving.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or use fresh herbs for an even brighter flavor—this one's perfect alongside a charcuterie board.
9. Crunchy Caramel Chex Mix
A sweet, buttery caramel glaze turns this mix into an irresistible treat that's crunchy on the outside and addictive all the way through.
Ingredients
You will need 9 cups of mixed Chex cereals including corn, rice, and wheat varieties, 2 cups of pecan halves or mixed nuts, 1 cup of light brown sugar, half cup of light corn syrup, half cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, half teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Spread the Chex cereals and nuts evenly across the sheets. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, then let it boil without stirring for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda, which will cause the caramel to foam up slightly. Immediately pour this hot caramel over the cereal and nuts on the baking sheets, using spatulas to gently toss and coat as much as possible. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to break up clumps and ensure even coating. Allow the mix to cool completely on the sheets, where the caramel will harden into crunchy perfection.
Drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled for an extra indulgent touch, or package it up for thoughtful homemade gifts.
10. Spicy Cajun Party Mix
Bring the bold flavors of the bayou to your snack time with this zesty Cajun-seasoned mix that's packed with heat and Southern charm.
Ingredients
Gather 3 cups of corn Chex, 3 cups of rice Chex, 2 cups of pretzels, 1 cup of peanuts, 1 cup of pecan halves, 6 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, half teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Instructions
Start by preheating the oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, mix the Chex cereals, pretzels, peanuts, and pecans. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish, then stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Pour this spicy butter mixture over the dry ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet in an even layer and bake for 1 hour, giving it a good stir every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution. Once done, let it cool completely to crisp up further.
Adjust the cayenne for your preferred spice level, and serve alongside cold drinks to tame the heat.
11. Italian Herb Parmesan Chex Mix
Transport your taste buds to Italy with this aromatic mix featuring classic herbs, garlic, and plenty of Parmesan for a gourmet savory snack.
Ingredients
Prepare 9 cups of assorted Chex cereals, 2 cups of mini pretzels, 1 cup of bagel chips, 1 cup of mixed nuts, half cup of olive oil, 1 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of dried Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt to taste.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheets with parchment. Combine the Chex, pretzels, bagel chips, and nuts in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and half the Parmesan. Drizzle this over the dry mix and toss well to coat, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and toss again. Spread evenly on the baking sheets and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until golden and crispy. Cool completely before storing.
This mix is fantastic with a glass of red wine, or add chili flakes for a spicy Italian variation.
12. Maple Bacon Sweet and Salty Mix
The ultimate sweet-salty combination featuring real bacon and pure maple syrup creates a smoky, irresistible flavor in every handful.
Ingredients
Collect 8 cups of rice or corn Chex cereal, 2 cups of pretzel twists, 1 cup of pecan halves, 8 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, half cup of unsalted butter, half cup of pure maple syrup, one-quarter cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, mix the Chex, pretzels, pecans, and bacon crumbles. In a saucepan, melt the butter with the maple syrup and brown sugar over medium heat until smooth and bubbling, then stir in the vanilla. Pour this maple mixture over the dry ingredients and stir gently to coat. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool completely, breaking up any large clusters.
Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture, and this mix is especially popular at brunch gatherings.
13. Tropical Fruit and Nut Chex Mix
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A lighter, sunnier take on snack mix with dried tropical fruits, coconut, and a hint of sweetness for a vacation-in-a-bowl experience.
Ingredients
Combine 6 cups of rice Chex or corn Chex cereal, 2 cups of shredded coconut, 1 cup of dried pineapple chunks, 1 cup of dried mango pieces, 1 cup of banana chips, 1 cup of cashews or macadamia nuts, half cup of melted butter, one-quarter cup of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and a dash of salt.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, toss together the cereal, coconut, dried fruits, and nuts. Whisk the melted butter with honey, vanilla, and salt, then drizzle over the mix and stir to coat. Spread on baking sheets and bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted. Cool fully to allow the flavors to meld.
This mix is wonderful as a trail snack or breakfast topping—add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness if desired.
14. Smoky BBQ Chex Mix
All the finger-licking flavors of barbecue in a crunchy, oven-baked mix that's perfect for tailgates and backyard hangouts.
Ingredients
Ready 9 cups of mixed Chex cereals, 2 cups of mini pretzels, 1 cup of smoked almonds, 6 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of barbecue seasoning blend, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Instructions
Heat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine cereals, pretzels, and almonds in a large bowl. Melt butter and mix with barbecue seasoning, brown sugar, paprika, and Worcestershire until blended. Pour over the dry mix and toss well. Spread on baking sheets and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool completely for that signature crunch.
Experiment with your favorite BBQ rub for custom flavor, and it's even better the next day.
15. Spicy Wasabi Ginger Chex Mix
An Asian-inspired bold blend with fiery wasabi peas and ginger for a unique, nose-tingling crunch that's anything but ordinary.
Ingredients
Mix 6 cups of rice Chex cereal, 2 cups of wasabi peas, 2 cups of sesame sticks, 1 cup of roasted edamame, 1 cup of cashews, 6 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and additional wasabi powder to taste.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Gently combine the cereal, wasabi peas, sesame sticks, edamame, and cashews in a bowl. Melt butter and whisk in soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, and wasabi powder. Drizzle over the mix and toss to coat. Bake on sheet pans for 50 minutes, stirring midway. Cool thoroughly.
The wasabi heat builds, so start mild and add more if needed—great with green tea or sake.
16. Chocolate Peppermint Holiday Chex Mix
A festive no-bake treat combining chocolate, peppermint, and crunchy cereal for the perfect holiday snacking experience.
Ingredients
Use 9 cups of rice Chex cereal, 2 cups of white chocolate chips, half cup of crushed peppermint candy canes, 1 cup of dark or semisweet chocolate chips, and additional peppermint extract if desired for stronger flavor.
Instructions
Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl. Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth, then pour over the cereal and gently fold to coat. Spread on waxed paper-lined sheets and immediately sprinkle with half the crushed peppermint. Melt the dark chocolate similarly and drizzle over the top, then sprinkle the remaining peppermint. Let set completely at room temperature or in the fridge before breaking into pieces.
Package in clear bags with ribbons for easy holiday gifting—it's always a seasonal favorite.
17. Cheesy Cheddar Snack Mix
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Loaded with sharp cheddar flavor, this ultra-cheesy version satisfies all your savory cravings in the crunchiest way possible.
Ingredients
Include 8 cups of mixed Chex, 2 cups of cheese crackers, 2 cups of pretzels, 1 cup of peanuts, 8 tablespoons of butter, 1 packet of cheddar cheese powder or 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar melted in, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt as needed.
Instructions
Preheat to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl. Melt butter and combine with cheese powder, Worcestershire, and garlic powder. Toss with the mix until coated. Bake for 1 hour, stirring frequently. Cool and enjoy the cheesy goodness.
Add bacon bits for a loaded version, or double the cheese for ultimate indulgence.
18. Everything Bagel Seasoned Chex Mix
All the iconic flavors of an everything bagel—sesame, poppy, garlic, and onion—in a crunchy, addictive snack mix form.
Ingredients
Prepare 9 cups of Chex cereal assortment, 2 cups of bagel chips, 2 cups of pretzels, half cup of butter, 3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and additional sesame and poppy seeds if desired.
Instructions
Oven to 250 degrees. Combine cereals, bagel chips, and pretzels. Melt butter and stir in seasoning and garlic powder. Coat the mix thoroughly. Bake 45-60 minutes, stirring often. Cool and sprinkle extra seasoning on top if you like.
Perfect for breakfast snacking or alongside cream cheese dip—bagel lovers rejoice!
With these 18 crispy snack mix favorites, you'll never run out of ideas for delicious, homemade treats that suit every mood and occasion. Mix and match ingredients to make them your own, and enjoy the endless crunch!