Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix recipe with perfect sweet-salty balance. Easy holiday snack ready in 55 minutes. Includes storage tips and variations.

The Story Behind This Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

Hi, I’m Linda, and welcome to Tasty at Home—where bold flavors meet everyday kitchens. Last December, while frantically preparing for my annual cookie exchange, I discovered something amazing. My grandmother’s handwritten recipe card fell from an old cookbook, revealing her secret weapon: Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix.

The aroma alone transported me back to childhood Christmas mornings. However, that first batch taught me a valuable lesson about patience. I rushed the baking process and ended up with burnt edges and soggy centers. After three more attempts, I perfected the timing and technique.

This sweet and salty masterpiece combines childhood nostalgia with grown-up sophistication. Moreover, it’s incredibly forgiving once you master the basics. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or need a last-minute gift, this recipe delivers every time.

The magic happens when warm cinnamon sugar meets buttery, toasted cereals and nuts. Furthermore, the combination creates an irresistible snack that disappears faster than Santa’s cookies. Today, I’m sharing the perfected version that took four trials to get just right.

What Makes This Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix Special

This isn’t your average party mix. Instead, it’s a carefully balanced blend of textures and flavors that creates the perfect holiday snack. The secret lies in the honey-butter coating that helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.

Additionally, this recipe uses a low-temperature baking method. This technique ensures even browning without burning the delicate cereals. The result is consistently crunchy pieces with just the right amount of sweetness.

Professional bakers like Martha Stewart emphasize the importance of stirring frequently during baking. Similarly, this recipe requires attention but rewards you with superior results. The multiple stir sessions prevent hot spots and ensure uniform coating.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

Shopping Tips for Best Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix Results

Choose cereals with sturdy shapes that won’t crumble easily. Avoid generic brands that tend to get soggy faster. Fresh cashews make a significant difference in taste and texture.

Look for mini saltines rather than full-size crackers. They distribute more evenly throughout the mix. Additionally, pretzel sticks work better than twists because they break into manageable pieces.

Quality cinnamon transforms this recipe. Therefore, invest in fresh ground cinnamon from the spice aisle rather than using old containers. The aromatic difference is remarkable.

Chex Mix Essential Equipment and Setup

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, preferably glass or stainless steel. Plastic bowls can retain oils that affect flavor. A microwave-safe bowl for melting butter saves time and reduces cleanup.

A half sheet pan lined with a silicone baking mat works perfectly. However, parchment paper is an acceptable substitute. If you only have smaller pans, use two to avoid overcrowding.

A wooden spoon handles the stirring without scratching your pans. Metal spoons can create hot spots on coated surfaces. Keep a timer nearby because precise timing matters for perfect results.

DIY Equipment Alternatives

No silicone mat? Line your pan with parchment paper instead. Just watch carefully for browning edges. Missing a half sheet pan? Two 9×13 baking dishes work well but require more frequent stirring.

Large mixing bowl alternatives include a clean roasting pan or even a stockpot. The key is having enough room to toss ingredients without spillage.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Oven Preparation and Setup

Preheat your oven to 275°F. This low temperature is crucial for even browning without burning. Line your half sheet pan with a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Position the oven rack in the center for optimal heat circulation. Avoid using the top rack, which can cause uneven browning. The middle position ensures consistent results every time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix all cereals, crackers, and nuts in your large bowl. Toss gently to distribute evenly. This creates the foundation for your cinnamon sugar coating.

Look for even distribution of colors and textures. Each handful should contain a good mix of all ingredients. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance.

Step 3: Create the Honey Butter Base

Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals. Overheating creates a greasy coating instead of the desired buttery richness. Stir between intervals until just melted.

Add honey, vanilla, and salt to the warm butter. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The mixture should smell aromatic and inviting.

Step 4: Coat the Mix

Pour the honey butter mixture over your cereal combination. Use a large spoon to toss thoroughly. Every piece should glisten with coating.

Work quickly while butter is still warm. Cold butter doesn’t distribute as evenly. Toss from bottom to top to ensure complete coverage.

Step 5: Initial Baking Process

Spread the coated mix evenly on your prepared pan. Avoid piling ingredients too thickly. Even distribution is key to consistent browning.

Bake for 15 minutes, then stir thoroughly. This first stir redistributes ingredients and prevents sticking. Return to oven for another 15 minutes.

Step 6: Second Baking and Stirring

After the second 15-minute interval, stir again. Look for light golden color starting to develop. The mixture should smell toasty but not burnt.

Continue baking for 10 more minutes. This shorter interval prevents overcooking while building flavor. Stir once more to ensure even browning.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Finale

Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to eliminate cinnamon clumps. The ratio should create visible cinnamon throughout.

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the warm mix. Toss immediately while ingredients are still hot. The warmth helps the coating adhere perfectly.

Return to oven for final 10 minutes. This sets the cinnamon sugar coating and creates the signature crunch. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix Results

Temperature control makes the difference between success and disappointment. Therefore, use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy. Many ovens run hot or cold, affecting your results.

Stirring frequency cannot be overlooked. Each stir session redistributes heat and prevents burning. Set a timer to avoid getting distracted by other tasks.

The final cinnamon sugar application works best on warm ingredients. Cold mix won’t hold the coating as effectively. Timing this step perfectly takes practice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

My biggest error involved rushing the process. High temperatures seem faster but create uneven results. Patience with low heat produces superior texture and flavor.

Overcrowding the pan leads to soggy spots. Use two pans if necessary rather than cramming everything together. Proper spacing ensures even browning throughout.

Skipping stir sessions results in burnt edges and raw centers. Set multiple timers if needed. Your attention during baking determines the final quality.

Creative Variations and Serving Ideas

Holiday Reindeer Chow Version

Transform this into Reindeer Chow Recipe for Christmas by adding chocolate chips after cooling. The melted chips create a festive appearance that kids love.

White chocolate drizzle creates an elegant presentation for adult parties. Melt carefully and drizzle while mix is completely cool. This prevents melting and maintains texture.

Dietary Adaptations

Gluten-free versions work well with rice-based cereals. Substitute corn-based crackers for traditional saltines. Always check individual ingredient labels carefully.

Nut-free adaptations replace cashews with roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds. These alternatives provide crunch without allergen concerns. Toast them lightly before adding.

Seasonal Twists

Pumpkin spice variation substitutes pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon. This creates perfect fall flavoring that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice recipes.

Apple pie spice works wonderfully for autumn gatherings. Add dried apple pieces for extra flavor and texture. This combination evokes cozy fall memories.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Storage Guidelines Table

Store completely cooled mix in airtight containers. Glass jars work exceptionally well for maintaining crispness. Avoid plastic bags that can make ingredients soggy.

Layer parchment paper between portions in large containers. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier. Label containers with preparation dates for freshness tracking.

Make-Ahead Strategies

Prepare the dry ingredient mixture up to three days ahead. Store in sealed containers until ready to coat and bake. This saves time during busy holiday periods.

Complete batches freeze beautifully for up to three months. Package in gift-sized portions for convenient holiday giving. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This sweet and salty treat pairs wonderfully with hot apple cider or mulled wine. The warm spices complement each other beautifully. Additionally, coffee drinks enhance the cinnamon notes.

Holiday parties benefit from attractive serving bowls. Mason jars create rustic charm for casual gatherings. Crystal bowls elevate formal presentations effortlessly.

Consider pairing with classic holiday desserts for complete entertaining spreads. The mix provides textural contrast to soft desserts.

Ina Garten often recommends offering both sweet and savory options. This recipe bridges that gap perfectly. Furthermore, it appeals to diverse taste preferences.

Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix FAQs

Wrapping Up Your Perfect Batch

Creating this Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix brings families together through shared preparation and enjoyment. The process itself becomes part of the holiday tradition. Moreover, the incredible aroma fills your home with warmth and anticipation.

Remember that grandmother’s recipe card that started this journey? She understood that food creates lasting memories. This recipe continues that tradition in modern kitchens across America.

The combination of textures and flavors makes this snack irresistible to all ages. Furthermore, it stores beautifully for gift-giving or extended enjoyment. Package portions in decorative containers for thoughtful presents.

Try serving alongside holiday favorites for complete seasonal entertaining. Your guests will request the recipe every time.

Share your variations and results on social media. Tag us to show off your beautiful batches and inspire other home cooks. Every kitchen tells its own story through these cherished recipes.

Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix

This sweet and salty Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix combines childhood nostalgia with grown-up sophistication. Perfect for holiday parties or gift-giving, this irresistible snack features a honey-butter coating with warm cinnamon sugar that creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Half sheet pan
• Silicone baking mat
• Microwave-safe bowl
• wooden spoon

Ingredients

  

Essential Ingredients

• 3 cups Corn Chex
• 2 cups Cheerios
• 1 cup Wheat Chex
• 2 cups Mini or Round Saltine Crackers
• 2 cups unsalted whole cashews
• 2 cups pretzel sticks

Coating Ingredients

• ½ cup butter
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2-3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 275°F. Line a half sheet pan with silicone baking mat. If you don’t have a half sheet pan, line two smaller pans.
• Combine Chex cereals, Cheerios, pretzels, crackers, and nuts in a large bowl.
• In a microwave safe bowl, melt butter.
• Stir honey, vanilla, and salt into melted butter.
• Pour honey butter mixture over snack mix, and toss to evenly coat.
• Transfer snack mix to prepared baking sheet(s). Spread snack mix out in an even layer.
• Bake for 15 minutes. Stir.
• Bake for another 15 minutes. Stir.
• Bake for another 10 minutes. Stir.
• Mix sugar and cinnamon together.
• Sprinkle over snack mix, tossing to coat.
• Bake for 10 more minutes.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool before serving. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Temperature control makes the difference between success and disappointment. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy. Stirring frequency cannot be overlooked – each stir session redistributes heat and prevents burning. The final cinnamon sugar application works best on warm ingredients. Store completely cooled mix in airtight containers for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

Keyword cinnamon sugar chex mix, holiday snack, reindeer chow, sweet and salty