Pin This sweet and crunchy Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is my fall go-to for parties and cozy evenings. Each handful is a blend of crispy cereal bites, salty pretzels, buttery pecans, all hugged by a fragrant pumpkin spice glaze. Easy enough for weekday munching but festive enough for Halloween gatherings, it disappears fast whenever I set out a bowl.
I made this for a neighborhood Halloween party and it was the only snack bowl that needed refilling three times. Now I prep double for our board game nights.
Ingredients
- Rice Chex cereal: brings a light crispy texture that soaks up the glaze choose a fresh unopened box for best crunch
- Corn Chex cereal: adds a subtle sweetness and crunch pairs well with the pumpkin flavors
- Mini pretzels: offer salty snap look for sturdy pretzels so they hold up during baking
- Pecan halves: contribute rich buttery flavor use fresh unbroken halves for best presentation
- Candy corn: gives colorful sweetness optional but fun for Halloween select quality candy corn for smooth texture
- Unsalted butter: is the base of your glaze delivers rich flavor avoid margarine for best results
- Packed light brown sugar: deepens the caramel notes use soft fresh brown sugar to mix easily
- Pure maple syrup: offers authentic autumn aroma real maple is worth it for depth
- Pumpkin pie spice: creates signature warmth use a blend with cloves and nutmeg for best results
- Ground cinnamon: boosts the spice layer select fragrant cinnamon for standout flavor
- Vanilla extract: smooths out sharp edges pure vanilla is best for aroma
- Coarse sea salt: heightens all the flavors choose flaky salt to avoid too much saltiness
- White chocolate chips: sweetness for drizzle choose high quality chips so they melt smoothly
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 275 degrees F ensuring it reaches temperature before mixing. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper so your mix does not stick and cleanup is easy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a spacious mixing bowl add Rice Chex Corn Chex mini pretzels and pecan halves. Gently stir to mix without breaking the cereal pieces ensuring that nuts and pretzels are evenly distributed throughout.
- Make the Pumpkin Spice Glaze:
- In a small saucepan melt unsalted butter completely on medium heat. Whisk in the packed brown sugar maple syrup pumpkin pie spice ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Stir constantly for two to three minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbling and the sugar dissolves. This step is essential for creating a glossy coat and rich flavor.
- Coat the Snack Mix:
- Pour the hot pumpkin glaze over your dry mix. Immediately sprinkle in coarse sea salt for balanced flavor. Using a spatula gently toss everything until all cereal snacks and nuts are evenly coated glistening but not soggy.
- Spread and Bake:
- Transfer the coated mix to your parchment lined baking sheet arranging it in an even layer so everything crisps well. Bake for forty five minutes stirring every fifteen minutes with a spatula to ensure bits in the center and sides all get crisp and evenly glazed.
- Cool the Mix:
- Remove the pan from the oven. Let the mix cool completely on the sheet this locks in crunch and keeps pieces from sticking together.
- Add Festive Finish:
- For Halloween flair gently fold in candy corn when the mix is cool. If you love extra sweetness melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over the snack mix. Allow the chocolate to set before breaking into clusters for serving.
- Store for Freshness:
- Once set move the mix into an airtight container. This keeps it snappy and flavorful for up to one week.
Pin This recipe always reminds me of crisp October evenings with my little one sneaking pecans from the mix as it cooled. I love how the maple syrup and pumpkin pie spice make the whole house smell cozy and welcoming. My favorite part is the pecans after roasting they taste almost like mini pies.
Storage Tips
Store Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix in a tightly sealed container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to one week. For longer storage transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to restore full crunchiness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pecan halves for walnuts or simply omit all nuts for a nut free snack. Use gluten free pretzels if anyone avoids wheat. For extra spice try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the glaze. Switch out candy corn for other seasonal candies or chocolate treats if you want a different theme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crunchy mix in festive bowls for Halloween or Thanksgiving gatherings. Scoop into small treat bags for homemade party favors or edible classroom gifts kids love customized mixes with their favorite snacks added. For movie nights pair it with apple cider or warm cocoa.
Cultural Historical Context
Chex Mix is a classic American snack with roots in mid century kitchens. The pumpkin spice twist pays homage to the cozy flavors of autumn especially popular in the United States during fall festivities. Adding candy corn and maple syrup brings a nostalgic holiday feel reminiscent of childhood trick or treating.
Seasonal Adaptations
Substitute pumpkin spice with apple pie spice blend in late autumn. Use dried cranberries and pecans for a Thanksgiving snack variation. Add mini marshmallows and chocolate chips for a winter holiday mix.
Success Stories
I made a double batch for my kids' classroom Halloween party and parents asked for the recipe before the end of the day. We have started a tradition baking together every October with everyone stirring and taste testing. Even my neighbor who claims not to love sweets came back for seconds.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix can be frozen for holiday prep. Spread cooled mix onto a new parchment lined sheet to freeze in a single layer before bagging. Defrost at room temp and serve within several hours to ensure crispy texture.
Pin This festive snack is the heart of our autumn tradition and always a crowd favorite at parties. Every batch brings crunchy warmth and sweet spice to your table.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute pecans with another nut?
Yes, you may use walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- → Is this snack suitable for vegetarians?
It uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients and can be adapted to dietary needs by checking packaged labels.
- → How do I add more spice?
Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the glaze for extra warmth and complexity.
- → Can I store this mix for later?
Store in an airtight container for up to one week, ensuring freshness and crunch.
- → What’s a good alternative to candy corn?
Try Halloween-themed chocolate candies or omit for a less sweet, straightforward mix.
- → What kitchen tools do I need?
A large mixing bowl, saucepan, whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, and spatula are recommended.
