Candy Cane Chex Mix

Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and of course, delicious treats. One of my absolute favorite festive snacks is Candy Cane Chex Mix. Every year, I look forward to making this delightful mix, which fills my home with the unmistakable scent of peppermint. It all started one chilly December evening when I decided to whip up something special for a holiday gathering. The moment I took the first bite, I knew this recipe would become a cherished tradition.

This crowd-pleaser combines the perfect crunch of Rice Chex Cereal with the sweet and creamy flavors of white almond bark and the refreshing kick of crushed peppermint candy canes. It’s the kind of snack that brings everyone together, whether you’re watching holiday movies or gathering around the tree. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! You just need a few simple ingredients, and before you know it, you have a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing.

As I prepare the Candy Cane Chex Mix, I can’t help but reminisce about those joyous moments spent with family and friends. I love seeing their smiles as they enjoy this tasty concoction. It’s not just a snack; it’s a way to share love and warmth during the holiday season. So, let’s dive into making this festive treat that will surely make your gatherings a little more special.

What You’ll Need for Candy Cane Chex Mix

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the best Candy Cane Chex Mix. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of this delightful treat. From the crunchy Rice Chex Cereal to the sweet and creamy white almond bark, these ingredients come together beautifully. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need!

• 1 (12.8-oz) box Rice Chex Cereal – This will be the base of your mix, providing a perfect crunchy texture that holds up to the coating.
• 1 (24-oz) package white almond bark candy coating – This sweet coating adds a creamy richness that binds everything together.
• 1 (6-oz) box peppermint candy canes, crushed – These add that signature peppermint flavor and a delightful crunch.
• 1/4 tsp peppermint oil, optional – A splash of this oil intensifies the peppermint taste, making it even more festive.

Making This Candy Cane Chex Mix

Creating your own Candy Cane Chex Mix is not only fun, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. Follow these simple steps to bring this festive treat to life. You’ll watch as your ingredients transform into a delicious snack that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

1. Start by gathering your supplies. You’ll need a very large bowl, the biggest one you have, to accommodate all the ingredients and to make mixing easier. Place the Rice Chex Cereal into the bowl and set it aside for now.

2. Next, melt the white almond bark candy coating according to the instructions on the package. Be sure to do this gently, using a microwave or double boiler to avoid scorching the chocolate. You want it to be smooth and creamy, ready to coat the cereal.

3. If you’re using the peppermint oil, add it to the melted candy coating now. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra burst of flavor. Stir well to combine.

4. Pour the melted candy coating over the Rice Chex Cereal in your bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the cereal into the coating, making sure every piece is well coated. The mixture should become glossy and shiny as you work.

5. After coating the cereal, it’s time to add the crushed peppermint candy canes. Sprinkle them over the top and fold them in gently. This adds sweetness and crunch, making each bite irresistible.

6. Now, pour the entire mixture onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Spread it out evenly, allowing it to cool and harden. This shouldn’t take too long, about 15 to 20 minutes, but it varies depending on your environment.

7. Once the Candy Cane Chex Mix has hardened, break it into pieces. You can adjust the size to your liking, whether you prefer large clusters or smaller bites. It’s all about personal preference!

8. Lastly, enjoy your creation! This cheerful mix is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or gifting. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make your Candy Cane Chex Mix even more special, consider these pro tips and tweaks that can enhance your experience:

• Storage: Store in an air-tight container to maintain freshness. Avoid exposing to heat or humidity.
• Freezing: You can freeze the mix for longer storage. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Pairing: Serve it alongside hot cocoa or a festive punch for a delightful treat combination.
• Gift Idea: Package your Candy Cane Chex Mix in decorative bags or jars for a homemade gift.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruits for added sweetness and texture.
• Presentation: Use festive bowls or trays when serving to elevate the visual appeal, especially during gatherings.
• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality white almond bark for the best flavor and smoothness.

Serving This Candy Cane Chex Mix

Serving your Candy Cane Chex Mix can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make it shine during your festive gatherings:

• Snack Table: Place it in a large bowl at your snack table for easy access during holiday parties.
• Movie Nights: Serve it in individual bags or bowls while watching your favorite holiday films.
• Gift Giving: Create gift bags filled with Candy Cane Chex Mix to share with neighbors and friends.
• Seasonal Parties: Perfect for Christmas and winter-themed gatherings, the mix adds a festive touch to your spread.
• Containers: Utilize mason jars or decorative tins for a charming presentation when gifting.
• Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an air-tight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
• Pair with Beverages: Consider pairing with warm beverages like hot chocolate or spiced cider for a delightful treat.

FAQ

Conclusion

Candy Cane Chex Mix is a holiday delight that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. It’s a simple yet delicious treat that everyone will love. I encourage you to try making it this season; it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy it yourself or share it with loved ones, this festive mix is sure to brighten your holidays!

Candy Cane Chex Mix

The ultimate festive treat, Candy Cane Chex Mix combines the crispy crunch of Chex cereal with the creamy sweetness of almond bark and a refreshing burst of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Make it tonight for a delightful snack!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 15 cups

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 box Rice Chex Cereal
• 1 package white almond bark candy coating
• 1 box peppermint candy canes, crushed
• 1/4 tsp peppermint oil optional

Equipment

• 8-qt Mixing Bowl
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Start by gathering your supplies. You’ll need a very large bowl, the biggest one you have, to accommodate all the ingredients and to make mixing easier. Place the Rice Chex Cereal into the bowl and set it aside for now.
2. Next, melt the white almond bark candy coating according to the instructions on the package. Be sure to do this gently, using a microwave or double boiler to avoid scorching the chocolate. You want it to be smooth and creamy, ready to coat the cereal.
3. If you’re using the peppermint oil, add it to the melted candy coating now. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra burst of flavor. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour the melted candy coating over the Rice Chex Cereal in your bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the cereal into the coating, making sure every piece is well coated. The mixture should become glossy and shiny as you work.
5. After coating the cereal, it’s time to add the crushed peppermint candy canes. Sprinkle them over the top and fold them in gently. This adds sweetness and crunch, making each bite irresistible.
6. Now, pour the entire mixture onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Spread it out evenly, allowing it to cool and harden. This shouldn’t take too long, about 15 to 20 minutes, but it varies depending on your environment.
7. Once the Candy Cane Chex Mix has hardened, break it into pieces. You can adjust the size to your liking, whether you prefer large clusters or smaller bites. It’s all about personal preference!
8. Lastly, enjoy your creation! This cheerful mix is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or gifting. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container to keep them fresh.

Notes

• Tip 1: This recipe uses peppermint oil and NOT peppermint extract. Adding liquids to almond bark will cause the candy coating to seize up.
• Tip 2: The coated cereal will keep for at least a week in an air-tight container.
• Tip 3: You can use flavored Chex cereal that you prefer.
• Tip 4: If you don’t want to use almond bark, you can substitute an equivalent amount of white chocolate.
• Tip 5: You will want to add a tablespoon or two of shortening to the white chocolate chips to make it easier to melt and give it a smoother, creamier texture.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.