If you’re on the hunt for a festive, irresistibly crunchy snack that captures the joyful spirit of the holidays, this Christmas Chex Mix Recipe is your ultimate go-to treat. It’s bursting with a perfect blend of textures and colors, from crisp cereals and salty pretzels to sweet, creamy white chocolate and vibrant red and green M&M’s that just scream celebration. Easy to assemble without baking, it’s perfect for holiday parties, gift bags, or simply cozying up with a bowl of seasonal cheer—it truly turns snack time into something magical.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Christmas Chex Mix Recipe keeps things delightfully simple, using everyday ingredients that come together in a flash to create a snack full of flavor and festive flair. Each item adds its own special touch, whether it’s crunchy texture, sweet melty goodness, or a pop of holiday color.
- Rice Chex (3 cups): Light and crispy, forming the crunchy base of the mix.
- Corn Chex (3 cups): Adds a slightly different crunch and a lovely golden hue.
- Cheerios (2 cups): A round, hearty cereal that balances the textures perfectly.
- Mini pretzels (2 cups): Brings that irresistible salty snap, enhancing the sweet mix.
- Peanuts (1 cup, optional): Adds extra crunch and a savory punch for those who want a nutty twist.
- Red and green M&M’s (1½ cups): The festive stars that brighten the mix with vibrant colors and chocolate bites.
- White chocolate chips or almond bark (12 oz bag): The creamy, sweet coating that holds everything together.
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening (1 tbsp, optional): Helps melt and smooth the chocolate for even coating.
How to Make Christmas Chex Mix Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by gathering all your crunchy elements: Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Cheerios, mini pretzels, and peanuts if you’re including them. Toss these together gently in a large mixing bowl so they’re evenly mixed and ready for their sweet coating.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
Using a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt your white chocolate chips along with the coconut oil or shortening if you’re using it. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well every time, until the mixture is silky smooth and ready to transform your snack into a luscious treat.
Step 3: Coat the Mix with Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate over the mixed cereals and pretzels, then stir delicately to ensure every piece gets evenly coated without breaking the crispy bits. This step is the magic moment that turns simple Chex Mix into a festive delight.
Step 4: Add the Festive M&M’s
Spread the coated mixture evenly onto parchment paper to prevent sticking, and immediately sprinkle your red and green M&M’s on top. Press them lightly to make sure they stick to the chocolate before it hardens—this adds not just flavor but a beautiful splash of holiday color.
Step 5: Let It Set
Allow the mix to cool and harden for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This waiting time is crucial for that perfect set texture and to let the white chocolate solidify beautifully around every crunchy bite.
Step 6: Break into Clusters and Store
Once set, break the mixture into clusters of your preferred size. Store them in an airtight container to keep the snack fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to dig in or share at your holiday gatherings.
How to Serve Christmas Chex Mix Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional mini M&M’s or edible gold glitter just before serving to elevate the festive look. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also mimic a snowy effect, infusing more holiday magic into every handful.
Side Dishes
This Christmas Chex Mix pairs beautifully with hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a simple cup of steaming coffee, creating the perfect balance between sweet, salty, and warm holiday drinks. It’s also great alongside a cheese and charcuterie board for a fun salty-sweet complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, divide the mix into clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons or place in decorative holiday tins. You could even layer the ingredients in a mason jar with a printed recipe tag for a charming homemade gift that lets friends and family recreate the magic at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Christmas Chex Mix Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crispy and delicious for up to two weeks, making it easy to snack on or share throughout the season.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the mix in a sealed freezer bag or container. When properly wrapped, it holds up well for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving, and it will regain its crunch.
Reheating
Since this mix doesn’t require cooking, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if your mix softens, a short stint in a low oven (around 250°F for 5-10 minutes) on a baking sheet can help restore some crispness—just watch carefully so the chocolate doesn’t melt again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with another coating?
Absolutely! You can use milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor. Just melt them the same way, and enjoy a different twist on this festive favorite.
Is this Christmas Chex Mix Recipe gluten-free?
Typically, Rice Chex and Corn Chex are gluten-free, but always check labels on cereals and other ingredients to be sure. Using gluten-free pretzels and M&M’s keeps the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruit?
Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite additions like almonds, cashews, or dried cranberries. Keep in mind some might affect the overall texture or sweetness balance.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
Preparation takes about 40 minutes total, most of which is waiting for the chocolate to set. The actual mixing and melting are quick—perfect for a last-minute holiday treat.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free white chocolate or coating alternatives and ensure the M&M’s and other mix-ins are vegan-friendly. It’s a deliciously adaptable recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about sharing a bowl of this Christmas Chex Mix Recipe during the holidays. It’s simple, colorful, and offers a charming blend of sweet and salty that everyone loves. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a party, or sneaking a handful yourself by the fire, this recipe promises to bring a smile to your season. Don’t wait to try it out and make your holiday snacking truly special.
Print
Christmas Chex Mix Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas Chex Mix is a delightful combination of crunchy cereals, pretzels, and peanuts, all coated in creamy white chocolate and sprinkled with colorful red and green M&M’s. Perfect for holiday snacking or gifting, this no-bake treat is easy to prepare and bursting with sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients
Mix Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Chex
- 3 cups Corn Chex
- 2 cups Cheerios
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 1 cup peanuts (optional)
- 1½ cups red & green M&M’s
Coating Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag white chocolate chips or almond bark
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for melting)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Cheerios, mini pretzels, and peanuts until evenly combined.
- Melt White Chocolate: Place the white chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Coat Mix with Chocolate: Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon to coat all the pieces evenly without crushing the cereals or pretzels.
- Add M&M’s: Immediately spread the coated mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the red and green M&M’s evenly over the top to adhere.
- Let Mix Set: Allow the chex mix to cool and harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes, so the chocolate coating can solidify and bind the mix into clusters.
- Store and Serve: Once hardened, break the mix into bite-size clusters. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The peanuts are optional but add a nice crunch and salty contrast.
- Using coconut oil or vegetable shortening helps smooth the melted chocolate and allows it to coat the mix more evenly.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free white chocolate chips or almond bark.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the mix crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks.
- This mix is great for holiday parties, gifts, or a festive snack anytime during the Christmas season.
