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Sweet & Smoky Party Mix

Sweet & Smoky Party Mix: Your New Favorite Snack Delight

Sweet & Smoky Party Mix is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game nights, delivering a satisfying combo of crunchy textures and sweet spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 cups
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 cups cereal Use your favorite combination of Chex or Crispix for the perfect crunch.
  • 2 cups pretzel sticks Adds a salty flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully.
  • 1 cup unsalted peanuts Provides a hearty bite and is rich in protein.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup butter, melted Helps bind all the ingredients and gives a rich flavor.
  • ¼ cup brown sugar Adds that essential hint of sweetness.
  • ¼ cup honey or corn syrup Use honey for a naturally sweet taste or corn syrup for an even stickier mix.
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Infuses a delightful smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the savory notes for a well-rounded taste.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Complements the garlic to create depth in flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for those who like a little kick.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
For Added Sweetness
  • 1 cup chocolate chips or M&M's Optional, for a sweet twist that both kids and adults will love.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cereal, pretzel sticks, and unsalted peanuts.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, honey (or corn syrup), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Add cayenne pepper if desired.
  4. Pour the butter mixture over the dry ingredients and fold gently until coated.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
  8. If desired, mix in chocolate chips or M&M's after cooling.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with different nuts or seeds and adjust baking time as needed to achieve the desired crunch.

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