This Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix is a delightful holiday treat that combines the crunch of Chex cereal with the sweetness of white chocolate and the festive flavor of peppermint. It’s a perfect snack or dessert for any holiday gathering, whether you’re making it for a family party, a school event, or as a gift for friends and neighbors. The peppermint flavor adds a refreshing twist to the classic Chex mix, making it a must-have for any festive occasion. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great activity for kids to help with.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice or Corn Chex)
- 12 ounces white almond bark (or white chocolate chips)
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the workspace: Lay a large sheet of wax paper or parchment paper on a counter or other flat surface.
- Prepare the Chex cereal: Place the Chex cereal in a very large mixing bowl.
- Melt the almond bark: Break the almond bark into pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt the almond bark in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until the bark is smooth and melted. Stir in half of the crushed peppermint candy canes.
- Coat the Chex cereal: Pour the melted almond bark mixture over the Chex cereal and use a rubber spatula to gently stir until all the cereal is coated.
- Sprinkle with remaining candy canes: Pour the coated cereal onto the prepared wax paper or parchment paper and quickly sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candy canes on top.
- Allow to set: Let the Chex sit on the flat surface until the almond bark has hardened.
Top Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients will ensure that your Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix tastes the best.
- Crush candy canes efficiently: Place unwrapped candy canes in a thick ziploc bag and use a rolling pin or other heavy object to crush them.
- Work quickly: The almond bark mixture sets quickly, so it’s essential to work fast when coating and sprinkling the Chex cereal.
- Store properly: Keep the Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Customize with sprinkles: Add some red and green sprinkles for extra festive color and fun.
- Make ahead: Prepare the Chex mix a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations:
- Use different types of Chex: Experiment with different types of Chex cereal, such as Chocolate Chex or Cinnamon Chex, for unique flavor combinations.
- Add nuts or seeds: Introduce some crunch with chopped nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- Change the peppermint flavor: Use peppermint extract instead of peppermint oil for a stronger flavor or add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted almond bark.
- Make it a gift: Package the Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix in cellophane bags and tie them with red ribbons for a festive gift.
- Add some spice: A pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add depth to the flavor profile.
Nutritional Guide:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 388 |
| Total Fat | 23g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 20g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Carbohydrates | 39g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Protein | 11g |
Additional Nutritional Notes:
This Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix is a relatively healthy snack option due to its low cholesterol and saturated fat content. However, it is high in carbohydrates and sugar, making it a treat best enjoyed in moderation. The peppermint flavor adds a refreshing twist without significantly altering the nutritional profile. If you’re concerned about sugar intake, consider using less sugar or substituting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
