Name: Delicious After School Snack Mix
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mini pretzels; 1 cup lightly salted roasted peanuts; 1 cup cheddar cheese crackers; 1 cup chocolate candies (such as M&Ms); 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins; 1 cup bite-sized cereal squares (like Chex); 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

If you’re on the lookout for the perfect mainstay in your snack repertoire, then the After School Snack Mix is just what you need. This delicious and easy homemade snack combines the crunchy textures of pretzels and peanuts with the delightful sweetness of chocolate candies and dried fruits, offering a delightful mix that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Not only is it a fantastic option for after-school munchies, but it also works great for movie nights, picnics, or anytime you crave a satisfying nibble. With the blend of flavors and textures, it’s hard to believe something this scrumptious can be so simple to prepare.

What sets this snack mix apart is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit personal preferences – swap out ingredients or add your favorites – making it a customizable treat that adapts to every family member’s taste. Best of all, this recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a go-to option for busy afternoons when you need a quick and wholesome snack. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or simply for your own family to enjoy, this After School Snack Mix is bound to become a beloved staple.

Why You’ll Love This After School Snack Mix

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this delightful After School Snack Mix, here are a few:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy afternoons.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients to cater to different tastes or dietary needs.
Enjoyable for All Ages: Both kids and adults will appreciate the balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Healthy Options: You control the ingredients, allowing you to include nutritious options.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for after school snacks, movie nights, or parties.

Ingredients

This After School Snack Mix includes a variety of textures and flavors, ensuring everyone finds something they love. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups mini pretzels
1 cup lightly salted roasted peanuts
1 cup cheddar cheese crackers
1 cup chocolate candies (such as M&Ms)
1 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1 cup bite-sized cereal squares (like Chex)
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle heat will help to toast the mix, enhancing the flavors without burning any of the ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini pretzels, roasted peanuts, cheddar cheese crackers, chocolate candies, dried cranberries or raisins, and bite-sized cereal squares. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and optional cinnamon. This mixture will add a delightful sticky sweetness to the mix. Make sure to mix well so that the honey is fully incorporated into the butter.

Step 4: Coat and Combine

Drizzle the butter and honey mixture over your dry snack mix. Carefully toss the snack mix with a spatula until everything is evenly coated. This step is crucial as it ensures that every bite has a hint of buttery sweetness.

Step 5: Bake Your Snack Mix

Spread the coated mix evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the snack mix in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even baking. You’ll know it’s done when everything is lightly browned and fragrant.

Step 6: Cool and Store

After removing it from the oven, allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage. This will keep your snack mix fresh and crunchy for days—if it lasts that long!

Variations

This snack mix is wonderful as is, but you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences! Here are some fun variations:

Protein: Add sunflower seeds, mini chocolate chips, or even some beef jerky for extra oomph.
Vegetables: For a healthier twist, consider adding air-popped popcorn or some dried vegetables like kale chips.
Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice, to create a seasonal flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Keep these tips in mind to get the best results with your After School Snack Mix:

Be sure to monitor the mix as it bakes to prevent burning. Every oven is different!
For an even crunchier texture, let the snack mix sit out for a few hours after baking to cool and dry completely.
Try using different kinds of nuts or dried fruits; almonds and mango pieces also work beautifully!
Store in an airtight container at room temperature where it can last for up to two weeks, if it lasts that long!

Serving Suggestions

Wondering how to serve your After School Snack Mix? Here are a couple of ideas:

Place the mix in colorful bowls for a fun snack during movie night.
Pack it in snack bags for quick grab-and-go options for school lunches or road trips.

Tips

To help you perfect your after-school snack mix experience, consider these useful tips:

For a gluten-free version, substitute the pretzels and crackers with gluten-free alternatives.
Use dark chocolate candies for a richer flavor and a bit of antioxidants!
Serve with yogurt or a fruit dip for a tasty twist on snacking!
Involve your kids in the process; it’s a fun way to let them help in the kitchen!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I make this snack mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! This snack mix stores well in an airtight container and can be prepared a few days ahead of time.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Yes! You can reduce the amount of honey, replace chocolate candies with dried fruits, or add more nuts and seeds for healthier fats and protein.

How long will the snack mix last once made?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Can I customize the ingredients further?

Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute any favorite ingredients to suit your taste, making it even more unique.

Conclusion

Your After School Snack Mix is not just a treat; it’s a creative way to satisfy cravings with minimal effort. Bursting with flavor, this delightful mix is perfect for satisfying sweet and salty cravings at once. Whether you’re indulging during a movie night or packing it for a quick snack, this recipe is a keeper. We invite you to give it a try, share your feedback, and let us know how you adapted it to your liking!