Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix

Introduction

Looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and flavorful? Meet your new favorite: Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix! This irresistible treat combines Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, cheddar crackers, and peanuts with a bold ranch seasoning. Perfect for movie nights, lunch boxes, or any occasion, this easy-to-make snack will have everyone reaching for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Ranch Flavor

The tangy ranch seasoning, combined with garlic and onion powder, delivers a flavor-packed punch in every bite.

Perfect Crunch

A delightful mix of textures—from crispy Chex to salty pretzels and cheesy crackers—makes this snack addictively satisfying.

Great for Sharing

This recipe yields enough to feed a crowd, making it perfect for parties, game nights, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Dry Mix

  • Cereals:
    • 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
    • 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
  • Snacks:
    • 2 cups pretzels
    • 1 cup cheddar crackers
    • 1 cup peanuts (optional)

Seasoning

  • Butter Base: ½ cup butter, melted
  • Flavors:
    • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
    • ½ tsp onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
    • Rice Chex cereal
    • Corn Chex cereal
    • Pretzels
    • Cheddar crackers
    • Peanuts (if using)

Step 3: Make the Seasoned Butter

  1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with:
    • Ranch seasoning mix
    • Garlic powder
    • Onion powder
  2. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Mix

  1. Pour the seasoned butter over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl.
  2. Toss gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Spread the coated mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
  3. Once baked, allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Transfer the cooled Ranch Trail Mix to a serving bowl or airtight container.
  2. Enjoy immediately, or store for later snacking!

Serving Suggestions

This Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix pairs perfectly with:

  • Game Day: A cold beer or soda.
  • Movie Night: Popcorn and sweet treats for a balanced snack spread.
  • Lunch Boxes: Add a handful to your lunch for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Helpful Tips

Make It Your Own

  • Swap the Snacks: Substitute cheddar crackers with goldfish or mini breadsticks for variety.
  • Add Sweetness: Toss in dried cranberries or yogurt-covered raisins after baking for a sweet-savory combo.

Storage Tips

Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Double the Recipe

Hosting a party? This recipe is easy to scale up—just use multiple baking sheets for even cooking.

FAQs

Can I use other cereals?

Yes! Wheat Chex or Crispix work just as well in this recipe.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

You can make your own by combining dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.

How can I make this mix gluten-free?

Use gluten-free Chex cereal, pretzels, and crackers to create a gluten-free version.

Can I make this mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! Ranch Trail Mix stays fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored properly, making it a perfect make-ahead snack.

What’s the best way to re-crisp leftovers?

If the mix loses its crunch, bake it at 250°F for 10–15 minutes to restore its texture.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix is a game-changer for snack lovers. Packed with bold flavors and a medley of textures, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or prepping snacks for the week, this mix checks all the boxes: crunchy, flavorful, and totally addictive.

Conclusion

Make your snacking moments unforgettable with this Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix. Its irresistible crunch and bold ranch flavor make it a standout choice for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and watch it disappear in no time. Happy snacking!

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