Description
This Easter Snack Mix is a delightful and colorful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet and crunchy mix. Featuring a blend of multigrain Cheerios, Rice Chex cereal, pretzels, cashews, and festive peanut butter and pastel milk chocolate M&M’s all coated in luscious melted white chocolate, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare with no baking involved.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
Snack Mix
- 4 cups multigrain Cheerios
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups pretzel sticks
- 1 cup roasted cashews (optional)
- 1 9-ounce bag peanut butter M&M eggs
- 1 cup pastel milk chocolate M&M’s
- ½ cup shredded, sweetened coconut
- Extra white chocolate chips, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Melt White Chocolate: Place white chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave Chocolate: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. The coconut oil helps the chocolate set firmer but is optional.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Spread Cheerios, Rice Chex, pretzel sticks, and cashews (if using) evenly on the prepared baking sheet and toss gently to mix.
- Add M&M’s: Add half of the peanut butter M&M eggs and half of the pastel milk chocolate M&M’s onto the dry mix.
- Drizzle with White Chocolate: Pour the melted white chocolate evenly over the dry ingredients on the sheet.
- Toss to Coat: Gently but quickly use a spatula or large spoon to toss the mix so that all pieces are coated with the white chocolate.
- Add Remaining M&M’s and Coconut: Sprinkle the remaining M&M’s and the shredded sweetened coconut over the mix, then toss once more gently to combine evenly.
- Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle extra white chocolate chips on top for added texture and sweetness.
- Set the Mix: Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until the white chocolate hardens and sets completely.
- Store: Transfer the snack mix to a large covered bowl, jar, or resealable plastic bag. The mix can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored to keep fresh.
Notes
- Coconut oil is optional; it helps white chocolate firm up but can be omitted.
- You can substitute or add nuts of choice according to preference.
- Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free white chocolate chips and ensure M&M alternatives are suitable.
- Mix gently to avoid breaking pretzels or M&M’s during tossing.
