Save to Pinterest A crunchy, sweet-and-savory snack mix inspired by the shape and flavors of pine cones—perfect for holiday gatherings or winter celebrations.
This festive snack mix always brings joy to our family's holiday parties and is super easy to prepare.
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.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzel twists rice cereal squares almonds and honey-roasted peanuts.
- Step 3:
- 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 the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Step 4:
- Pour the warm coating evenly over the snack mix. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Step 5:
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the slightly cooled mix so they stick but don't melt completely.
- Step 7:
- Once completely cool dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Step 8:
- Serve in a large bowl or portion into small cups for individual servings.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has been a centerpiece of holiday family moments, bringing everyone to the kitchen for a quick snack and a warm chat.
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
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this snack mix as a festive treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nuts are used in this snack mix?
Roasted almonds and honey-roasted peanuts provide a crunchy, flavorful base with a hint of sweetness.
- → Can this snack mix be made nut-free?
Yes, nuts can be replaced with pumpkin seeds to accommodate nut-free preferences.
- → How is the coating prepared?
Butter is melted and combined with brown sugar, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon, then simmered briefly to thicken before tossing with the snack base.
- → What gives the mix a snowy effect?
A dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled snack mix creates a festive, snowy appearance.
- → Can dried fruit be added?
Dried cranberries can be added for a tart contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Hot cocoa or mulled cider complement the mix's sweet and savory balance for holiday occasions.