Festive Pine Cone Snack Mix (Printable)

A sweet-savory mix with pretzels, nuts, and chocolate chips topped with powdered sugar.

# What you need:

→ Base

01 - 3 cups mini pretzel twists
02 - 2 cups rice cereal squares (e.g., Chex)
03 - 1 cup roasted almonds
04 - 1 cup honey-roasted peanuts

→ Coating

05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
06 - 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
07 - 1/4 cup honey
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Garnish

10 - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
11 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar

# Directions:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mini pretzel twists, rice cereal squares, roasted almonds, and honey-roasted peanuts.
03 - Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Simmer gently, stirring, until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
04 - Pour the warm coating evenly over the base mixture and toss gently until all pieces are thoroughly coated.
05 - Spread the coated mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
06 - Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the slightly cooled mixture to allow them to adhere without melting.
07 - After the mix is completely cooled, dust evenly with powdered sugar for a festive snowy effect.
08 - Serve in a large bowl or portion into individual cups for easy sharing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with just 20 minutes total time.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors inspired by pine cones.
  • Crunchy mix featuring pretzels, nuts, and rice cereal squares.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and great for holiday parties or cozy winter nights.
02 -
  • Use parchment paper to easily lift and transfer the snack mix after cooling.
  • Sprinkle chocolate chips while the mix is still slightly warm to help them stick without melting.
  • Store the mix in an airtight container to keep it crunchy and fresh.
  • Check labels if avoiding soy, as chocolate chips and cereals may contain soy ingredients.
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