Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix: 5 reasons you’ll crave this treat

Oh, let me tell you about the sheer joy of *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*! This delightful snack mix is one of those treats that takes me right back to my childhood. I remember coming home from school, the tempting aroma wafting through the house, and racing to the kitchen to grab a handful (or three!). It’s a sweet and crunchy mix that perfectly balances the warmth of cinnamon and the rich, buttery flavor of brown sugar. Seriously, how can you resist that?

This snack has become a staple at family gatherings, game nights, and movie marathons. It’s so easy to whip up—just toss some simple ingredients together, bake, and enjoy! The best part? You can customize it however you like! Everyone seems to have their own twist, but the classic version with Rice Chex cereal has a special place in my heart. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles and satisfied munching to any occasion. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be reaching for it again and again!

Ingredients List

• 8 cups Rice Chex cereal – this is the base of our mix, providing that perfect crunch!
• 1/2 cup butter – make sure it’s melted for easy mixing; I love using unsalted for better control over flavor.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – dark brown sugar adds a deeper richness, but light brown works just as well if that’s what you have!
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – this gives a lovely sweetness and helps with that delightful crunchy coating.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – this is where the magic happens! Fresh ground cinnamon is always best, but store-bought works too if you’re in a pinch.

How to Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this irresistible *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*! I promise it’s easier than you think, and you’ll be snacking in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch that’ll disappear faster than you can say “yum!”

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). While that’s warming up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This is super important because it keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar

Now, let’s whip up that scrumptious cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Just give it a good stir until it’s well combined. This little mixture is what will make your Chex Mix sparkle with sweetness!

Step 3: Prepare the Butter-Sugar Mixture

Next, it’s time to melt the butter. In a microwave-safe glass measuring cup, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Just pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it, though—you don’t want it to boil! Once it’s melted, stir in the 1/2 cup of brown sugar and pop it back in the microwave for another 20-30 seconds until the sugar is dissolved. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. This buttery goodness is going to coat your Rice Chex perfectly!

Step 4: Combine with Rice Chex

In a large bowl, pour in 8 cups of Rice Chex cereal. Then, drizzle that buttery-sugar mixture over the cereal. Now, be gentle! Use a spatula or wooden spoon to carefully stir everything together until all the Chex are evenly coated. You don’t want to crush them, so take your time here!

Step 5: Bake the Mixture

Spread the coated Rice Chex mixture out on your prepared baking sheet. Then, sprinkle that delicious cinnamon sugar evenly over the top. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This stirring step is key—it helps to ensure every piece gets that perfect crunch and flavor without burning!

Step 6: Cooling and Serving

Once your mix is golden and delicious, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooldown period is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture. Once it’s ready, serve it up in a big bowl and watch it disappear!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for our delicious *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good overview of what to expect for a serving size of 1/2 cup:

• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Sodium: 0 mg

This snack is definitely on the sweeter side, so enjoy it in moderation! It’s perfect for sharing during movie nights or family gatherings, and you won’t feel guilty indulging in this crunchy treat. Happy snacking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious snack ready in under an hour!
• Simple ingredients: You likely have most of these items in your pantry already, making it an easy go-to for last-minute cravings.
• Irresistible flavor: The perfect blend of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a sweet, cozy flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate for a personalized twist!
• Great for sharing: This mix is perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home—you’ll be the hit of any gathering!
• Storeable: It keeps well in an airtight container, so you can enjoy it for up to a week—if it lasts that long!

Tips for Success

To make sure your *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix* turns out absolutely perfect every single time, I’ve got a few handy tips that’ll help you nail it! Trust me, these little tricks make all the difference.

• Stir regularly: This is crucial! Make sure to stir the mix every 15 minutes while it bakes. It helps prevent burning and ensures that every single piece gets that delicious coating of cinnamon sugar!
• Cool completely: After baking, let your Chex mix cool completely before digging in. This cooling period allows it to crisp up nicely, giving you that satisfying crunch in every bite!
• Storage matters: Store your *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix* in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but I doubt it’ll last that long in your house!
• Serve in style: For a fun presentation, serve your mix in a large bowl with small cups on the side for easy snacking. You can even add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar on top right before serving for that extra touch!
• Make it a gift: This mix is perfect for gifting! Package it in cute jars or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Friends and family will love receiving such a tasty treat!

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*! Enjoy snacking and sharing this delightful treat with everyone around you!

Variations on Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

Oh, the fun doesn’t stop with just the classic *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*! There are so many ways to switch things up and make this snack your own. Here are some delightful variations that I absolutely adore:

• Nuts Galore: Toss in some chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. I love using a mix of nuts for extra texture!
• Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a chocolate fan, add some mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Chex Mix. It’s a sweet surprise that makes every bite even more indulgent!
• Dried Fruits: Throw in some dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for a fruity twist. The sweetness from the fruit pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and brown sugar.
• Swap the Cereal: While Rice Chex is a classic, you can experiment with other cereals too! Try Corn Chex or even a mix of cereals for different flavors and textures.
• Spice It Up: Get adventurous with spices! Add a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
• Seasonal Flavors: For a festive touch, consider adding pumpkin spice for fall or a hint of peppermint extract during the holidays. It’s an easy way to bring seasonal cheer to your Chex mix!

Each variation is a chance to discover new favorites, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Mix and match to find the combination that makes your taste buds dance. Happy experimenting!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix*? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some common queries that pop up when whipping up this delicious snack.

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Absolutely! While Rice Chex is a classic, you can swap it out for any of your favorite cereals. Corn Chex or even a mix of cereals can add fun textures and flavors to your mix. Just keep in mind that the baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it!

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

No brown sugar? No problem! You can use granulated sugar in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. If you have molasses on hand, you can make your own brown sugar by mixing one cup of granulated sugar with one tablespoon of molasses. It works like a charm and adds that lovely richness!

How do I store my Chex mix to keep it fresh?

For the best results, store your *Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix* in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. If you notice any softening, just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp it back up!

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You can use margarine if that’s what you have, but I highly recommend sticking with real butter for the best flavor. Butter gives the mix that rich taste that makes it so irresistible. If you must use margarine, just make sure it’s not a low-fat variety, as that can affect the texture.

What’s the best way to serve Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix?

Serving this mix is all about making it fun! I love using a large bowl with small cups on the side for easy grabbing. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon sugar on top right before serving for an extra special touch. It’s great for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy snack at home!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print