Name: Spicy Ranch Chex Mix.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Corn Chex Cereal; 3 cups Rice Chex Cereal; 2 cups Whole Wheat Chex Cereal; 2 cups mixed nuts (your favorites like almonds, cashews, or pecans); 2 cups mixed salted bite-size pretzels and pretzel thins; 1 container parmesan crisps ((3-ounce)); 1 stick salted butter ((8 tablespoons, melted)); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons dried parsley; 2 teaspoons dried dill; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 2 teaspoons dried chives; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference); 1-2 tablespoons raw sesame seeds; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

If you’re looking for the perfect snack that combines crunch, flavor, and a little kick, look no further than Spicy Ranch Chex Mix. This delightful mix is packed with an assortment of cereals, nuts, and pretzels, all coated in a savory seasoning blend that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a game night, binge-watching your favorite show, or simply craving a tasty snack, this Spicy Ranch Chex Mix is a must-try. It’s easy to make, and the best part? You can customize it to suit your preferences!

Top Reasons to Make Spicy Ranch Chex Mix.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this delicious mix in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to make it your own.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, movie night, or a road trip snack, this mix fits the bill.
Great for Sharing: Make a large batch to share with friends and family, or keep it all for yourself!
Long-Lasting: This mix stores well, making it a convenient snack option for days to come.

What’s in the Bowl

The beauty of Spicy Ranch Chex Mix lies in its delightful combination of textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 cups Corn Chex Cereal – Adds a light and crispy base.
3 cups Rice Chex Cereal – Brings a subtle sweetness and extra crunch.
2 cups Whole Wheat Chex Cereal – For a nutty flavor and added fiber.
2 cups mixed nuts – Choose your favorites, such as almonds, cashews, or pecans, for a protein boost.
2 cups mixed salted bite-size pretzels and pretzel thins – Provides a salty crunch that perfectly complements the cereals.
1 (3-ounce) container parmesan crisps – Adds a cheesy, savory element to the mix.
1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter, melted – Helps to bind the mix and adds richness.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Infuses the mix with a tangy depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons dried parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
2 teaspoons dried dill – Enhances the ranch flavor profile.
2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds aromatic warmth.
2 teaspoons onion powder – Complements the garlic for a savory base.
2 teaspoons dried chives – Introduces a mild onion flavor.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust to your heat preference for that spicy kick.
1-2 tablespoons raw sesame seeds – For a nutty crunch and added nutrition.
1 teaspoon each kosher salt and black pepper – Balances the flavors.

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your Spicy Ranch Chex Mix, gather these essential tools:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Baking sheet: To spread the mix out for even baking.
Spatula: For stirring the mix and ensuring even coating.
Oven: To bake your mix to crispy perfection.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Mastering Spicy Ranch Chex Mix.: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help the mix bake evenly without burning.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Whole Wheat Chex, mixed nuts, pretzels, and parmesan crisps. Toss gently to mix everything together.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried chives, cayenne pepper, sesame seeds, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Pour the seasoning mixture over the dry ingredients, and use a spatula to gently fold the mix, ensuring that everything is evenly coated with the buttery spice blend.

Step 5: Spread on a Baking Sheet

Spread the Chex mix evenly on a large baking sheet, making sure to break up any clusters for even baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the mix in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This will help to ensure an even crunch throughout.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once baked, remove the mix from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up your Spicy Ranch Chex Mix without sacrificing flavor, consider these tips:

Use light butter or a butter substitute to reduce calories.
Opt for unsalted nuts to control sodium intake.
Substitute whole grain or low-fat pretzels for the regular ones.
Increase the amount of chewy dried fruits for added natural sweetness and reduce the amount of nuts.

Mistakes That Ruin Spicy Ranch Chex Mix.

Overbaking: Keep an eye on your mix while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to burnt flavors and a tough texture.
Underseasoning: Don’t skimp on the spices! A well-seasoned mix is key to bringing out all the flavors.
Not stirring: Failing to stir every 15 minutes can result in unevenly baked mix.
Using stale ingredients: Make sure your cereal and nuts are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Shelf Life & Storage

To maintain the freshness and crunch of your Spicy Ranch Chex Mix:

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, but it’s so delicious, it probably won’t last that long!
For longer storage, consider freezing the mix in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use different types of cereals?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cereals to create a blend that suits your taste.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or even use a milder spice if you prefer less heat. Taste as you go!

What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a splash of hot sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I add dried fruits to the mix?

Yes! Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can add a delightful sweetness to contrast the savory elements.

Hungry for More?

If you loved this Spicy Ranch Chex Mix, you might also enjoy trying out other snack recipes. From sweet to savory, there’s a whole world of delicious snacks waiting for you to explore! Check out some of our favorite recipes for homemade granola bars, savory popcorn mixes, and nutty trail mixes. Your snack game is about to get a serious upgrade!

This Spicy Ranch Chex Mix is the ultimate combination of crunchy, savory, and spicy goodness, making it a snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just for yourself, every bite is a flavor-packed delight. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a snack that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy!