Why You’ll Love Christmas Chex Mix Recipe

This holiday Chex Mix brings together a delightful mix of textures and flavors: crunchy cereal and pretzels, sweet white chocolate, colorful Christmas M&M’s, and festive crushed peppermints. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t require baking, and makes a crowd‑pleasing snack or gift.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups Rice Chex cereal
3 cups Wheat Chex cereal
2 cups Bugles snack chips
2 cups sourdough pretzel nibblers
10 ounces white chocolate candy melts
1 ¼ cups mini M&M’s (red and green variety)
22 Starlight peppermint candies, unwrapped and finely crushed (about ½ cup)
2 tablespoons nonpareil sprinkles (red, white, and green)

Directions

Line two large rimmed baking pans with parchment paper and set aside.
In a very large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, Bugles, and pretzel nibblers; gently stir to combine.
Melt the white chocolate candy melts according to package instructions until smooth.
Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture; gently toss to coat evenly.
Sprinkle mini M&M’s, crushed peppermints, and holiday sprinkles over the coated mix while the chocolate is still warm; toss lightly to distribute.
Spread the mix evenly across the prepared baking pans and let it cool completely until the chocolate hardens.
Once set, break into clusters and serve or store.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 24
Prep time: 20 minutes
No bake time required beyond cooling until the chocolate sets.

Variations

Different Chocolate: Use milk or dark chocolate instead of white for a richer flavor.
Nutty Twist: Add roasted nuts like almonds, cashews, or peanuts for extra crunch and depth.
Holiday Themes: Swap red and green candies for pastel ones during Easter or spooky colors for Halloween.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the melted chocolate for a surprising kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Choose certified gluten-free cereals and pretzels to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Storage/Reheating

Store Christmas Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in a sealed freezer bag in the freezer for up to 4 weeks. No reheating is necessary—simply serve at room temperature.

FAQs

What makes this Christmas Chex Mix festive?

Festive colors and flavors from red and green mini M&M’s, crushed peppermint candies, and sprinkles give this mix its holiday spirit.

Can I use different cereals?

Yes, you can substitute or add other cereals like Corn Chex or Cheerios for variety.

Can I add nuts to this mix?

Absolutely! Toasted nuts like almonds, pecans, or peanuts add extra crunch if you like.

How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Ensure the chocolate is fully set before storing and keep the container airtight to maintain crunch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this a day before your event. Store it properly until serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check the labels on all ingredients, especially cereals and pretzels, to confirm they are gluten-free if needed.

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?

Yes! Swap in melted dark or milk chocolate for a rich twist on the classic version.

How long does it take for the chocolate to harden?

It typically takes about 15–30 minutes at room temperature for the chocolate to completely set.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, reduce the amount of white chocolate or increase salty elements like pretzels or Bugles to balance sweetness.

Is this suitable for gifting?

Yes, it’s a great homemade holiday gift—just package in festive bags or tins once fully cooled.

Conclusion

This Christmas Chex Mix is an irresistible holiday treat with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Easy to make and full of festive cheer, it’s ideal for snacking, sharing, or gifting throughout the holiday season. Customize it your way and enjoy the crunchy, colorful goodness!