This Sweet and Crunchy Popcorn Snack Mix is the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Made with a variety of cereals, popcorn, peanuts, and a luscious peanut butter glaze, it’s a crowd-pleaser for movie nights, parties, or just as an irresistible snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile: Great for holidays, game days, or gifting.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Perfect Balance: Sweet caramel and salty peanuts create a perfect flavor harmony.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients for your favorite add-ins.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun treat for little ones and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crispy corn and rice cereal (such as Crispix®)
- 2 cups honey graham cereal (such as Golden Grahams®)
- 2 cups peanut butter corn puff cereal (such as Reese’s Puffs®)
- 2 cups popped popcorn (optional, or add more to taste)
- 8 ounces candy-coated milk chocolate pieces (such as M&M’s®)
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Large saucepan
- Waxed paper
- Baking sheet
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Workspace
Line a large baking sheet with waxed paper. Set it aside to use later for cooling the snack mix.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy corn and rice cereal, honey graham cereal, peanut butter corn puff cereal, popcorn (if using), candy-coated chocolate pieces, and salted peanuts. Gently toss to mix evenly.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Glaze
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour until smooth, cooking for 2–3 minutes to create a roux.
- Add the brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring occasionally, and bring to a boil. Allow it to cook for about 1 minute until the sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in the peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Coat the Snack Mix
- Pour the warm peanut butter glaze over the cereal mixture in the bowl.
- Gently toss the mix with a spatula to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Cool the Snack Mix
- Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 6: Break into Chunks and Store
Once cooled, break the snack mix into bite-sized chunks. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve in individual bowls or place in festive bags for gifting.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the mixture soggy.
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the peanuts and use sunflower seeds or additional popcorn for crunch.
- Festive Flair: Use themed M&M’s® or candy for holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Halloween.
- Extra Sweetness: Add mini marshmallows or white chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
- Healthy Swap: Use air-popped popcorn and reduce the sugar in the glaze slightly.
Helpful Notes
- For a more even coating, toss the cereal mixture gently to avoid crushing the pieces.
- If the glaze thickens too quickly, warm it slightly over low heat to loosen before pouring.
- Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Always use good-quality butter and peanut butter for a richer glaze.”
- Ree Drummond: “Mix the dry ingredients in batches if your bowl isn’t large enough to toss everything evenly.”
- Alton Brown: “Let the snack mix cool completely before storing to ensure it stays crunchy.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the corn syrup?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes, though they may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
2. How do I keep the mix from sticking together?
Ensure the glaze is evenly distributed and let the mix cool completely before storing.
3. Can I make this mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stays fresh in an airtight container for up to a week, making it perfect for prepping ahead.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but work in batches when coating with the glaze to ensure everything gets evenly covered.
5. Can I make this mix gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cereals and check the labels of your other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
This Sweet and Crunchy Popcorn Snack Mix is the ultimate treat for any occasion. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for your family and friends. Enjoy!
