Easy Christmas Chex Mix Recipe aka Christmas Crack

Makes: 10 servings

NUTRITION: This is a real treat, which means no macros :)

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Christmas is the season of joy, giving, and—let’s be honest—delicious treats! Every year, I whip up two special goodies for my clients and friends: my beloved marshmallow green cookies and this crunchy Christmas Chex mix recipe. With its irresistible mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy, this treat is perfect for gifting or enjoying by the handful at a holiday party.

This version of the classic Christmas crack is gluten-free and a little healthier, thanks to some thoughtful swaps. It’s loaded with festive colors and that satisfying crunch I KNOW you will love. Think puppy chow vibes, but with a white chocolate twist!

Why You’ll Love This Chex Christmas Mix Recipe

This treat is quick to make, requires no baking, and delivers a delightful crunch in every bite. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe, so you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or to dietary needs. Crunchy Christmas Crack has become a tradition in my kitchen. It’s a joy to make, gift, and, of course, eat! I hope this festive recipe becomes a favorite in your household, too.

Ingredients

• 5 cups Chex mix (a blend of rice and corn Chex works great, or stick to all rice for a gluten-free option)

• 1.5 cups pretzels (I used gluten-free pretzel sticks, but pretzel twists would also be good)

• 1.5 cups Three Wishes unflavored protein cereal (or substitute with Cheerios if you can’t find it)

• 2.5 cups red and green M&Ms (or other chocolate candies)

• 2 bags Enjoy Life white chocolate chips (18 oz)

Instructions

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the Chex, pretzels, protein cereal, and M&Ms. Mix everything well so it’s evenly distributed.

2. Melt the white chocolate:

   Double boiler method: Place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of boiling water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add both bags of white chocolate chips and stir until fully melted and creamy.

   Microwave method: Add the white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 90 seconds total).

3. Combine: Pour the melted white chocolate over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated with white chocolate.

4. Spread and cool: Lay parchment paper on a large rimmed cookie sheet (or two medium-sized pans). Spread the cereal mixture out in an even layer. Sprinkle Christmas sprinkles on top if you'd like. Let it cool completely until the white chocolate hardens and becomes crunchy.

5. Serve or package: Once dry, break the mixture into bite-sized pieces. Toss it in a large bowl for serving or portion it into small cellophane bags for gifting. (I recommend making a big batch so there's plenty to go around!)

Tips for the Perfect Crunchy Christmas Crack

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

• Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

Swaps and Add-Ins

• Add a nutty twist: Swap out half the pretzels for roasted almonds or peanuts for extra crunch.

• Make it dairy-free: Ensure your white chocolate is dairy-free (Enjoy Life is a great option) and use dairy-free M&Ms or colorful candy.

• Try a chocolate drizzle: Once the mixture is on the parchment paper, drizzle with melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra layer of flavor. You could also use melted vanilla almond bark if you'd prefer.

• Holiday sprinkles: Toss in red and green sprinkles before the white chocolate hardens for even more festive flair.

For a Muddy Buddies Vibe

Put the snack mix in a large serving bowl or plastic bag and gently toss with powdered sugar to mimic that classic powdered coating.

Crunchy Christmas Crack

Watch the Tutorial

Happy holidays and happy snacking! 🎄

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Crunchy Christmas Crack

Yield: 10

Author: Ashley aka The Protein Snack Queen

Christmas Crack is a no-bake holiday treat that's as addictive as its name suggests! It’s a sweet-and-salty snack mix, coated in melted chocolate or white chocolate, and packed with festive flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• Ingredients
• 5 cups Chex mix (a blend of rice and corn Chex works great, or stick to all rice for a gluten-free option)
• 1.5 cups pretzels (I used gluten-free pretzel sticks)
• 1.5 cups Three Wishes unflavored protein cereal (or substitute with Cheerios if you can’t find it)
• 2.5 cups red and green M&Ms
• 2 bags Enjoy Life white chocolate chips (18 oz)
• Instructions
• Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the Chex mix, pretzels, protein cereal, and M&Ms. Mix everything well so it’s evenly distributed.
• Melt the white chocolate: Double boiler method: Place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of boiling water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add both bags of white chocolate chips and stir until fully melted and creamy. Microwave method: Add the white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 90 seconds total).
• Combine: Pour the melted white chocolate over the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated with white chocolate goodness.
• Spread and cool: Lay parchment paper on a large sheet pan (or two medium-sized pans). Spread the mixture out in an even layer. Let it cool completely until the white chocolate hardens and becomes crunchy.
• Serve or package: Once dry, break the mixture into clusters. Toss it in a festive bowl for serving or portion it into small snack bags for gifting.