Save This festive White Chocolate Holiday Chex Mix is my go-to treat whenever the winter holidays roll around. It comes together in minutes and disappears even faster thanks to its irresistible combination of crispy cereal, salty pretzels, crunchy peanuts, and a generous coating of creamy white chocolate. Whether you are hosting a party or packing up edible gifts, this cheerful snack mix always brings a crowd together.
This recipe first saved me during a last-minute holiday party rush. Now it is my signature snack every December and my friends always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Rice Chex cereal: adds the bulk and signature crunch choose a fresh, crisp box for best results
- Corn Chex cereal: gives a mellow corn flavor and lighter texture always check it is not stale
- Mini pretzel twists: bring that salty contrast look for ones with a nice snap and just the right amount of salt
- Salted roasted peanuts: give a nutty richness and crunch try roasted unsalted if you want less salt
- Cheerios: basic or honey nut add an extra round shape and gentle toastiness fresh is best for max crispness
- Red and green M and Ms or other holiday chocolate candies: add seasonal color and a pop of chocolate use classic or peanut varieties
- Holiday sprinkles: optional but fun they make the mix look extra festive choose bright crunchy ones
- White chocolate chips or melting wafers: form the creamy sweet coating choose a high-quality brand that melts smoothly
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening: gives the coating shine and keeps it snappy opt for refined coconut oil to avoid coconut flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper this is essential to prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy
- Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl combine Rice Chex Corn Chex mini pretzels peanuts and Cheerios Gently toss with clean hands or a big spatula so everything is evenly dispersed but not crushed
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl Microwave in 30-second bursts stirring well after each round The chocolate should be smooth and glossy but take care not to overheat as white chocolate can seize quickly
- Coat the Mix:
- Immediately pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture Using a wide spatula gently fold until every piece is coated Move quickly so it does not set before you can finish
- Add the Festive Bits:
- Sprinkle the M and Ms and optional sprinkles into the mix and give it one final gentle toss just enough to distribute but not melt the candies
- Spread and Set:
- Scrape the coated mixture onto your prepared baking sheet Spread out into an even layer with minimal overlap Let it cool at room temperature until the chocolate is set usually 30 minutes If you are in a rush refrigerate for around 10 minutes
- Break Apart and Store:
- Once the mix is firm break it into big clusters or bite-sized pieces Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week
Save The holiday M and Ms always remind me of baking with my kids We love pressing extra sprinkles on top and laughing as we sneak pinches before the mix sets Nothing makes the kitchen smell sweeter than melted white chocolate
Storage Tips
Keep your Chex mix fresh by storing it in a tightly sealed container Room temperature is perfect but avoid humid spots so the coating stays crisp If you make it ahead do not refrigerate for long periods as the pretzels may soften
Ingredient Swaps
Need nut-free Try sunflower seeds or skip nuts altogether Gluten-free pretzels and cereal work beautifully if labeled as such Dark chocolate chips add a grown-up twist and rainbow M and Ms make it a year-round treat
Serving Ideas
Serve the mix in big bowls at parties or portion out in muffin cups for grab-and-go snack packs It pairs perfectly with mugs of cocoa or a sparkling holiday punch You can even tuck it into lunchboxes for a midday festive surprise
History of the Recipe
Snack mixes became a holiday tradition in America for their ease and crowd appeal The combination of sweetened cereal and chocolate was a quick way to make a homemade treat before store-bought snacks took over I love that it is still just as loved by today's kids as it was by mine years ago
Seasonal Adaptations
Use pastel candies and sprinkles for spring events Try orange and black candies for Halloween Mix in dried cranberries and pistachios for a wintery twist
Save Break up the clusters for easier snacking at kids' parties Add a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra pop of flavor
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute peanuts with other nuts?
Yes, you can use almonds, cashews, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version to fit dietary needs.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free cereals and pretzels, and always check packaging to ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → How long does the mix stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep the mix crunchy and flavorful.
- → Can I use other types of chocolate?
You can try milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor, melting and coating as you would with white chocolate.
- → Are there other add-ins I can use?
Mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, or different colored candies work well for customizing this snack.
- → What drinks pair well with this snack?
Enjoy with hot cocoa, coffee, or sweet dessert wine to complement the sweet-and-salty flavor profile.