Save to Pinterest A bold and festive snack mix featuring jalapeño heat, crunchy nuts, and a savory spice blend that makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting. This treat brings lively flavor to any snack table and will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
I first mixed up this spicy snack blend for a holiday movie night. Its hit of heat and crunchy texture had everyone reaching for seconds, and now it's the recipe my friends request every year.
Ingredients
- Mini pretzels: 3 cups provide the classic crunch and sturdy base
- Crispy corn cereal squares (e.g. Chex): 2 cups add airy, crispy bites
- Bite-sized cheese crackers: 1 cup for cheesy flavor and extra crunch
- Roasted peanuts: 1 cup offers savory richness
- Roasted cashews: 1 cup brings creamy texture and nuttiness
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup (60 g) coats ingredients with richness
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for added flavor and to help spices adhere
- Fresh jalapeño, finely minced (seeds removed for less heat): 1 brings signature punch
- Smoked paprika: 1 1/2 teaspoons lends subtle smokiness
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon for savory depth
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon adds aromatic balance
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon for extra warmth
- Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon for earthy flavor
- Cayenne pepper (optional): 1/2 teaspoon for extra heat
- Kosher salt: 3/4 teaspoon for seasoning
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon adds a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzels, corn cereal, cheese crackers, peanuts, and cashews.
- Make the spice & jalapeño mixture:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in olive oil, minced jalapeño, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and brown sugar. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Coat snack mix:
- Pour the hot spice mixture over the snack mix base. Toss well until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Bake:
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Stir and toast:
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a favorite for our family holiday parties, with everyone taking turns stirring the mix as it toasts. It's become a tradition to pack little bags of it to share with neighbors and friends.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl for tossing ingredients, small saucepan for melting butter and infusing spices, baking sheet for spreading out the mix, parchment paper to prevent sticking, and a spatula or large spoon for stirring.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from butter and cheese crackers, peanuts, tree nuts (cashews), and gluten from pretzels, cereal, and crackers. Always read labels and adjust for allergies as needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 275, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 6 g per serving.
Save to Pinterest This spicy jalapeño snack mix is sure to add warmth and fun to your festivities. Enjoy the bold flavors with your favorite beverage.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is this snack mix?
The mix offers medium spiciness from jalapeño and cayenne pepper. Adjust heat by reducing jalapeño and skipping cayenne.
- → Can I make this without nuts?
Yes, omit peanuts and cashews and replace with extra pretzels, cereal, or seeds for a nut-free option.
- → How long does the mix stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, the snack mix remains crunchy and flavorful for up to two weeks.
- → What beverages pair well with it?
Cold beer, sparkling cider, or ginger ale balance the spicy flavors for a festive serving experience.
- → Can I add different ingredients?
Absolutely. Try adding pumpkin seeds, wasabi peas, or alternative cereals for unique flavor and texture.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all featured ingredients are vegetarian, though always check for hidden animal products in store-bought items.