Name: Christmas Crack Chex Mix
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, or Wheat); 2 cups mini pretzels; 1 cup dry roasted peanuts; 1 cup holiday M&M’s; 1 cup butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (optional)

The holidays are all about cozy gatherings, twinkling lights, and snacks that vanish faster than you can say “Merry Christmas!” This Christmas Crack Chex Mix is one of those addictive holiday treats that keeps guests coming back for just one more handful. It’s sweet, salty, crunchy, and colorfully festive – perfect for holiday parties or gifting in cute little bags.

What makes this Chex mix so irresistible? It combines classic cereal crunch with a caramel glaze that hardens into a light crackle, plus peanuts, pretzels, M&M’s, and holiday sprinkles to keep things exciting. Whether you’re filling your snack bowls or your holiday tins, this mix is about to be your new seasonal go-to.

What Kind of Chex Cereal Should I Use?

You can use a mix of Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Wheat Chex for a balanced texture and flavor. If you’re aiming for gluten-free, stick with Rice and Corn Chex. The different cereals soak up the caramel coating differently, giving you that signature crunchy variety.

Ingredients for the Christmas Crack Chex Mix

Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, or Wheat) – The base of this mix; crispy and great at catching all that sweet coating.
Mini pretzels – Adds saltiness and crunch to balance the sweetness.
Dry roasted peanuts – A nutty bite and a perfect complement to caramel.
Holiday M&M’s – Pops of chocolate and festive color.
Butter and brown sugar – These form the caramel glaze that holds everything together.
Light corn syrup – Helps give the caramel that crackly, glossy finish.
Baking soda – The secret to that airy, snappy texture in the caramel.
Holiday sprinkles – Optional, but makes the mix extra jolly!

How To Make the Christmas Crack Chex Mix

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a giant mixing bowl, combine 8 cups of Chex cereal, 2 cups mini pretzels, and 1 cup dry roasted peanuts.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter, then stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of light corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and quickly whisk in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam—this is normal and creates the light texture.

Step 3: Coat and Bake

Immediately pour the caramel mixture over your cereal mix and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Spread the mix on the baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coverage.

Step 4: Cool and Decorate

Remove from oven and let cool completely. Once cool, toss in 1 cup of holiday M&M’s and a handful of festive sprinkles. Break into clusters and serve or package in holiday bags.

Serving and Storing Christmas Crack Chex Mix

This mix is made for sharing! Serve it in bowls at your Christmas party, pack it in jars for neighbor gifts, or include it in your cookie trays. To store, place in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crunchy for up to 2 weeks, though it rarely lasts that long!

What to Serve With Christmas Crack Chex Mix?

Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows

A mug of classic cocoa makes the perfect cozy pairing.

Eggnog

The rich, creamy flavors of eggnog complement the sweet-salty crunch.

Caramel Popcorn

Double down on the sweet crunch with a batch of homemade caramel popcorn.

Gingerbread Cookies

Add a spiced bite to your snack spread with these classic cookies.

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

Keep the sweet and salty combo going strong.

Peppermint Bark

A refreshing, minty treat alongside this caramel mix.

Cheese Board

Surprisingly, a savory cheese board balances the sugar rush beautifully.

Want More Holiday Snack Ideas?

If this Christmas Crack Chex Mix has you in the festive spirit, you’ll love these merry munchies too:

Garlic Ritz Snacks for a buttery, savory twist.
Condensed Milk Snow Cookies to add a melt-in-your-mouth option.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies with fruity richness.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you’re all about indulgent bites.
Mint Magic Bars for cool, creamy holiday joy.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe swapped in pecans or added white chocolate chips? I’d love to hear your spin—share your tips in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Christmas Crack Chex Mix

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with this festive and highly addictive Christmas Crack Chex Mix! This sweet-and-salty treat is perfect for parties, edible gifts, or a cozy movie night snack. A crunchy medley of Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts, and chocolate candy is coated in a buttery caramel glaze that cracks just right. It’s easy to make and fun to customize, making it a must-have addition to your collection of holiday snack ideas, easy recipes, and Christmas food ideas. Whether you’re after a quick holiday snack, a homemade food gift, or some new party treat inspiration, this one checks all the boxes!