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
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Rice Chex cereal
- Corn Chex cereal
- Pretzels
- Cheddar crackers
- Peanuts (if using)
Step 3: Make the Seasoned Butter
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with:
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Mix
- Pour the seasoned butter over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Toss gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake
- Spread the coated mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
- Once baked, allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer the cooled Ranch Trail Mix to a serving bowl or airtight container.
- 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!