Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix Crunchy and Fun

July 19, 2025 by Taling

Looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and fun? Try my Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix! This mix hits all the right notes with its tasty blend of rice cereal, nuts, pretzels, and chocolate. It’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or a quick bite on the go. Join me as we create a sweet and salty treat that everyone will love. Let’s get snacking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

2 cups rice cereal (such as Crispix)
1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
1 cup pretzel sticks
1 cup chocolate-covered raisins or M&M’s
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

The ingredients for this snack mix are simple yet fun. Each adds a unique crunch or flavor. Rice cereal gives a light, airy base that feels good to munch on. Mixed nuts add protein and healthy fats, making the snack filling. Pretzel sticks bring a salty twist, balancing the sweet elements.

I love using chocolate-covered raisins or M&M’s for a pop of sweetness. You can pick your favorite! The creamy peanut butter binds everything together. Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, while vanilla and salt enhance the flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories per serving: About 200
Protein content: Approximately 5 grams
Fiber content: Roughly 2 grams

This snack mix is not just tasty; it also packs a decent amount of protein and fiber. You get a nice energy boost without feeling heavy.

Recipe Scaling

To adjust the recipe, simply multiply or divide the ingredient amounts. For 16 servings, double each ingredient. For fewer servings, cut the ingredient amounts in half.

You can swap in different nuts based on what you like. Want it nut-free? Try seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. If you can’t find rice cereal, any crunchy cereal works well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

You will need:

Large mixing bowl
Small saucepan
Spatula
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the rice cereal, mixed nuts, pretzel sticks, and chocolate-covered raisins. Toss these dry ingredients lightly to mix them evenly.

2. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are coated well.

Cooling and Storing

To cool the mix, spread it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it is completely cool. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to one week. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Success

To ensure even coating, mix the dry ingredients first. Toss the rice cereal, nuts, and pretzels lightly. When you pour in the warm peanut butter blend, move quickly. Stir gently but well. This helps every piece get that tasty coating.

To avoid sticking, use a non-stick baking sheet. Parchment paper is also a great choice. Make sure the mixture is cool before breaking it into clusters. If it sticks, use a spatula to help separate it.

Flavor Enhancements

You can add spices for extra flavor. Try a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A dash of cayenne adds heat and fun. If you love more sweetness, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. It makes a nice contrast to the saltiness of the pretzels.

To enhance saltiness, consider adding a touch of sea salt. This brings out the flavors more. A sprinkle of coarse salt can give it a fancy feel.

Making It Kid-Friendly

Get the kids involved! Let them mix the dry ingredients. They can also pour the peanut butter mixture. It’s a fun way for them to help. Kids love being part of the cooking process.

If you have picky eaters, swap some ingredients. Use their favorite nuts or chocolate. You can even add dried fruits like cranberries. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty snack mix.

Variations

Nut-Free Alternatives

If you want to avoid nuts, you can still enjoy this mix. Substitute mixed nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. These seeds add a nice crunch and keep the mix nut-free. You can also use crunchy snacks, like pretzel crisps or chickpea puffs. For chocolate, look for dairy-free options. Many brands offer dark chocolate chips that skip dairy. This way, you can still get that rich chocolate taste without nuts or dairy.

Sweetness Alternatives

Want to switch things up with sweetness? Try using natural sweeteners. Maple syrup or agave syrup works great. These sweeteners can change the flavor a bit, but they add a nice touch. You can even adjust the honey in the mix. If you want a lighter flavor, reduce the honey and add more peanut butter. This gives a slight twist to the overall taste.

Flavor Combinations

Mixing flavors can make your snack mix even better. Try other types of chocolate, like white or dark chocolate. Each type brings a different taste. You could even mix them together for a fun twist. Adding dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, can enhance the flavor too. These fruits add sweetness and chewiness that balances the crunch. With these variations, every bite can feel fresh and exciting!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

I recommend using an airtight container to keep your Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix fresh. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Choose a container that fits the mix snugly. This helps prevent air from getting in. Air can make the mix stale.

Duration Before Spoilage

At room temperature, your snack mix lasts about one week. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. If you notice any off smells or a change in texture, it’s best to toss it. Signs of spoilage include a soft feel or clumping.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze this snack mix! Freezing keeps it fresh for up to three months. To freeze, first let the mix cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the mix crunchy and tasty.

FAQs

Common Questions About Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix

Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?

Yes, you can use almond butter instead of peanut butter. It gives a nice, nutty flavor. Almond butter works well in this recipe. Just make sure to use the same amount as the peanut butter.

How do I adjust the sweetness to my liking?

To adjust the sweetness, change the honey amount. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey. You can also try using maple syrup for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing ideas with beverages

Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix pairs well with milk or a smoothie. You can also enjoy it with hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For adults, a light coffee can balance the sweetness too.

Best occasions for serving snack mix

This snack mix is perfect for movie nights or family gatherings. It’s also great for birthday parties or school events. You can pack it for picnics or road trips, making it fun and easy to share.

Troubleshooting

What to do if the mix is too dry or too sticky?

If the mix is too dry, add a bit of melted peanut butter. Stir it well until it’s coated. For a sticky mix, let it cool longer before breaking it apart. You can also add more dry ingredients to balance it out.

How to revive stale snack mix?

To revive stale snack mix, spread it on a baking sheet. Bake it at a low temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to bring back some crunch. Make sure to cool it before eating!

For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.

This recipe shows how to make a tasty peanut butter chocolate snack mix. You learned the best ingredients, steps for preparation, and tips for storage. Making this mix is easy and fun, especially for kids. You can adjust flavors and ingredients based on your taste. Whether you enjoy it at home or share it at a party, this snack is sure to please. Try it out, enjoy the process, and get creative with your custom mix!

$- 2 cups rice cereal (such as Crispix) - 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts) - 1 cup pretzel sticks - 1 cup chocolate-covered raisins or M&M's - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/4 cup honey - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - Pinch of salt The ingredients for this snack mix are simple yet fun. Each adds a unique crunch or flavor. Rice cereal gives a light, airy base that feels good to munch on. Mixed nuts add protein and healthy fats, making the snack filling. Pretzel sticks bring a salty twist, balancing the sweet elements. I love using chocolate-covered raisins or M&M's for a pop of sweetness. You can pick your favorite! The creamy peanut butter binds everything together. Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, while vanilla and salt enhance the flavors. - Calories per serving: About 200 - Protein content: Approximately 5 grams - Fiber content: Roughly 2 grams This snack mix is not just tasty; it also packs a decent amount of protein and fiber. You get a nice energy boost without feeling heavy. To adjust the recipe, simply multiply or divide the ingredient amounts. For 16 servings, double each ingredient. For fewer servings, cut the ingredient amounts in half. You can swap in different nuts based on what you like. Want it nut-free? Try seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. If you can't find rice cereal, any crunchy cereal works well. - Prep time: 15 minutes - Total time: 45 minutes You will need: - Large mixing bowl - Small saucepan - Spatula - Baking sheet - Parchment paper 1. In a large mixing bowl, add the rice cereal, mixed nuts, pretzel sticks, and chocolate-covered raisins. Toss these dry ingredients lightly to mix them evenly. 2. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined. 3. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are coated well. To cool the mix, spread it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it is completely cool. Once cooled, break it into clusters. Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to one week. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections. To ensure even coating, mix the dry ingredients first. Toss the rice cereal, nuts, and pretzels lightly. When you pour in the warm peanut butter blend, move quickly. Stir gently but well. This helps every piece get that tasty coating. To avoid sticking, use a non-stick baking sheet. Parchment paper is also a great choice. Make sure the mixture is cool before breaking it into clusters. If it sticks, use a spatula to help separate it. You can add spices for extra flavor. Try a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A dash of cayenne adds heat and fun. If you love more sweetness, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. It makes a nice contrast to the saltiness of the pretzels. To enhance saltiness, consider adding a touch of sea salt. This brings out the flavors more. A sprinkle of coarse salt can give it a fancy feel. Get the kids involved! Let them mix the dry ingredients. They can also pour the peanut butter mixture. It’s a fun way for them to help. Kids love being part of the cooking process. If you have picky eaters, swap some ingredients. Use their favorite nuts or chocolate. You can even add dried fruits like cranberries. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty snack mix. {{image_2}} If you want to avoid nuts, you can still enjoy this mix. Substitute mixed nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. These seeds add a nice crunch and keep the mix nut-free. You can also use crunchy snacks, like pretzel crisps or chickpea puffs. For chocolate, look for dairy-free options. Many brands offer dark chocolate chips that skip dairy. This way, you can still get that rich chocolate taste without nuts or dairy. Want to switch things up with sweetness? Try using natural sweeteners. Maple syrup or agave syrup works great. These sweeteners can change the flavor a bit, but they add a nice touch. You can even adjust the honey in the mix. If you want a lighter flavor, reduce the honey and add more peanut butter. This gives a slight twist to the overall taste. Mixing flavors can make your snack mix even better. Try other types of chocolate, like white or dark chocolate. Each type brings a different taste. You could even mix them together for a fun twist. Adding dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, can enhance the flavor too. These fruits add sweetness and chewiness that balances the crunch. With these variations, every bite can feel fresh and exciting! I recommend using an airtight container to keep your Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix fresh. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Choose a container that fits the mix snugly. This helps prevent air from getting in. Air can make the mix stale. At room temperature, your snack mix lasts about one week. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. If you notice any off smells or a change in texture, it's best to toss it. Signs of spoilage include a soft feel or clumping. Yes, you can freeze this snack mix! Freezing keeps it fresh for up to three months. To freeze, first let the mix cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the mix crunchy and tasty. Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter? Yes, you can use almond butter instead of peanut butter. It gives a nice, nutty flavor. Almond butter works well in this recipe. Just make sure to use the same amount as the peanut butter. How do I adjust the sweetness to my liking? To adjust the sweetness, change the honey amount. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey. You can also try using maple syrup for a different flavor. Pairing ideas with beverages Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Mix pairs well with milk or a smoothie. You can also enjoy it with hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For adults, a light coffee can balance the sweetness too. Best occasions for serving snack mix This snack mix is perfect for movie nights or family gatherings. It’s also great for birthday parties or school events. You can pack it for picnics or road trips, making it fun and easy to share. What to do if the mix is too dry or too sticky? If the mix is too dry, add a bit of melted peanut butter. Stir it well until it’s coated. For a sticky mix, let it cool longer before breaking it apart. You can also add more dry ingredients to balance it out. How to revive stale snack mix? To revive stale snack mix, spread it on a baking sheet. Bake it at a low temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to bring back some crunch. Make sure to cool it before eating! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. This recipe shows how to make a tasty peanut butter chocolate snack mix. You learned the best ingredients, steps for preparation, and tips for storage. Making this mix is easy and fun, especially for kids. You can adjust flavors and ingredients based on your taste. Whether you enjoy it at home or share it at a party, this snack is sure to please. Try it out, enjoy the process, and get creative with your custom mix!$