Get ready to travel back in time with this original Chex Mix recipe, a snack staple that has graced parties and living rooms for decades. We'll explore its roots, including the original Chex Mix recipe from 1950 and how it evolved through the original Chex Mix recipe from 1960 and the 1970s Chex Party Mix recipe. This is arguably the best Chex mix recipe for those who love that classic savory flavor. We'll also touch on Chex Mix variations and even a hint of a sweet Chex mix recipe and why this remains an easy Chex mix recipe.
What is in the traditional Chex mix?
The foundation of the traditional Chex mix includes a blend of:
- Rice Chex cereal
- Wheat Chex cereal
- Corn Chex cereal
- Salted nuts (originally often peanuts)
- Pretzels
- Seasoned butter (Worcestershire sauce is key!)
Did Chex Mix originally have peanuts?
Yes, it's widely believed that the original Chex mix did include peanuts as a standard ingredient. Over time, variations have emerged with different types of nuts or no nuts at all, but the classic recipe often featured them.
What is the original Chex cereal?
The first Chex cereal was Shredded Wheat Chex, introduced in 1937. However, the cereals most associated with Chex Mix are Rice Chex (introduced in 1950), Wheat Chex (also introduced in 1950), and later, Corn Chex (introduced in 1958). These three became the iconic trio for the mix.
What to put in Chex mix?
While the "original" has its core components, what to put in Chex mix has evolved. Beyond the basics, you can find recipes including
- Bagel chips
- Melba toast crackers
- Cheese crackers
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Hot sauce
- Different types of nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin)
But for today, we're focusing on that beloved classic!
Let's Get Started: The Original Chex Mix Recipe (Oven Method)
This method bakes the Chex Mix, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and creating a satisfyingly crunchy snack.
Yields: Approximately 9 cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 1 hour (with stirring)
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups Wheat Chex cereal
- 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup salted mixed nuts (or peanuts, if you want to go truly vintage)
- 1 cup pretzel sticks or twists
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons seasoned salt
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional, but adds a nice touch like some later variations)
Instructions:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Gather all your Chex cereals (rice, wheat, and corn), pretzels, nuts, butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix together the Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, Corn Chex, nuts, and pretzels. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Add Seasonings
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Pour Seasoned Butter Over Cereal Mixture
Pour the melted, seasoned butter evenly over the cereal and nut mixture in the large bowl.
Step 5: Gently Toss to Coat
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the mixture until all the cereal, nuts, and pretzels are evenly coated with the seasoned butter.
Step 6: Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the Chex Mix in a single layer on two large baking sheets.
Step 7: Stir Regularly
Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting and prevent burning.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Once the Chex Mix is lightly browned and smells wonderfully savory, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheets. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy this classic snack!
Chex Mix Variations:
The beauty of Chex Mix lies in its adaptability! Here are a few ideas for Chex Mix variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix: Add a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco) to the melted butter mixture, or sprinkle with cayenne pepper before baking.
- Cheesy Chex Mix: Toss the warm baked Chex Mix with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost. You can also find recipes that incorporate powdered cheese seasoning.
- Garlic Lover's Chex Mix: Increase the garlic powder and even add some fresh minced garlic to the butter while it melts.
- Nut-Free Chex Mix: Simply omit the nuts and add more pretzels or other crunchy elements like bagel chips.
Sweet Chex Mix Recipe (A Quick Note):
While we focused on the original savory recipe, there are many delicious sweet Chex mix recipe variations. These often involve coatings like melted chocolate, caramel, or powdered sugar, combined with ingredients like candies, dried fruit, and different cereals. These are a whole different treat but equally popular!
Enjoy making and sharing this timeless, easy Chex mix recipe! It's a fantastic way to connect with the flavors of the past while creating new memories.
0 Comments