Description
This Ranch Trail Mix is a savory, crunchy snack blend perfect for parties, road trips, or anytime snacking. Combining Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, cheddar crackers, and optional peanuts, it is coated in a flavorful ranch seasoning mix and baked low and slow to ensure crispiness and maximum flavor absorption.
Ingredients
Scale
Snack Mix
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup cheddar crackers
- 1 cup peanuts (optional)
Seasoning
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 ounce)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, cheddar crackers, and peanuts if using. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat the mixture: Pour the seasoned butter evenly over the cereal mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece with the ranch butter mixture.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the coated mix in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even baking and crisping.
- Bake and stir: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Every 15 minutes, remove from oven and stir the mix to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Cool completely: After baking, let the trail mix cool completely on the baking sheet. This will allow it to crisp up further before serving.
Notes
- Ensure to stir every 15 minutes during baking to avoid burning and ensure even crisping.
- You can omit peanuts for a nut-free version or substitute with your favorite nuts.
- This trail mix stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
- If you prefer, you can double or halve the recipe according to your needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
