Save A crunchy, sweet-and-savory snack mix inspired by the shape and flavors of pine cones&mdashperfect for holiday gatherings or winter celebrations.
This snack mix quickly became a family favorite during the holidays because it is easy to make and always delicious.
Ingredients
- Base: 3 cups mini pretzel twists, 2 cups rice cereal squares (such as Chex), 1 cup roasted almonds, 1 cup honey-roasted peanuts
- Coating: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar packed, 1/4 cup honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Garnish: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1 Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper:
- Prepare the baking sheet before mixing ingredients.
- Step 2 Combine base ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl combine pretzel twists rice cereal squares almonds and honey-roasted peanuts.
- Step 3 Prepare coating:
- In a small saucepan melt butter over medium heat Stir in brown sugar honey vanilla extract and cinnamon Bring to a gentle simmer stirring until sugar is dissolved and mixture slightly thickened about 2 minutes.
- Step 4 Coat snack mix:
- Pour warm coating evenly over snack mix Gently toss until well coated.
- Step 5 Spread mixture:
- Spread mixture in an even layer on prepared baking sheet Allow to cool for 5 10 minutes.
- Step 6 Add chocolate chips:
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over slightly cooled mix so they stick but dont melt completely.
- Step 7 Dust with powdered sugar:
- Once completely cool dust with powdered sugar for snowy effect.
- Step 8 Serve:
- Serve in a large bowl or portion into small cups for individual servings.
Save Making this snack mix always brings back fond memories of cozy family holidays and sharing treats by the fire.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl saucepan wooden spoon or spatula baking sheet parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains Tree nuts (almonds) peanuts dairy (butter) gluten (pretzels cereal) May contain soy check chocolate chips and cereal labels Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 270 Total Fat 13 g Carbohydrates 34 g Protein 5 g per serving
Save This festive pine cone snack mix is the perfect sweet and salty treat to share this holiday season.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute nuts for allergies?
Yes, pumpkin seeds are a great nut-free alternative that maintain the crunch and texture in the mix.
- → How do I prevent chocolate chips from melting?
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the snack mix once it has cooled slightly but is not fully set, so they stick without melting.
- → What spices enhance the flavor of this mix?
A touch of ground cinnamon in the coating adds warmth and depth complementing the sweet and savory blend.
- → Can dried fruits be added?
Yes, dried cranberries add a tart contrast that brightens the overall flavor.
- → What beverages pair well with this snack?
Hot cocoa or mulled cider are excellent choices to complement the sweet and nutty flavors.