This Dill Pickle Chex Mix is a tangy, savory snack with a satisfying crunch, combining classic Chex cereal with the bold flavor of dill. Perfect for parties or just for snacking!
INGREDIENTS
- Corn or Rice Chex Cereal (8 cups): Forms the base of the mix, adding a light crunch.
- Bagel Chips (2 cups): Adds a hearty texture and soaks up the flavorful coating.
- Pretzel Sticks (1 cup): Provides a salty crunch to balance the tangy flavors.
- Cashew Pieces (1 cup): Adds a rich, nutty element to the mix.
- Butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness.
- Dry Ranch Seasoning (1 ounce package): Provides a savory, tangy base flavor.
- Dill Pickle Juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a burst of pickle flavor.
- Dried Dill (1 tablespoon): Enhances the pickle flavor with an herbal touch.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild garlic flavor that complements the tangy notes.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to bake the Chex Mix to a perfect crunch.
- Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, bagel chips, pretzel sticks, and cashew pieces.
- Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dry ranch seasoning, dill pickle juice, dried dill, and garlic powder until fully combined.
- Step 4: Coat the Mix
- Pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Step 5: Bake
- Transfer the coated mixture to a large, rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Transfer the baked Chex Mix to parchment paper or aluminum foil to cool completely. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Chex Mix as a party snack, or pack it into small bags for an on-the-go treat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Helpful Notes
- Be sure to stir every 15 minutes while baking to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
- Allow the mix to cool completely before storing to maintain its crispiness.
- Feel free to adjust the pickle juice amount based on your taste preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Alton Brown suggests using a rimmed baking sheet to prevent spilling while stirring during baking.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends letting Chex Mix cool completely on a wire rack for maximum crunch.
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture for a spicy twist.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- A unique twist on traditional Chex Mix with a tangy, savory flavor that’s sure to please pickle lovers.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients and requires minimal prep work.
- Perfect for sharing, snacking, or as a fun addition to parties and gatherings.
VARIATIONS
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap cashews for peanuts or almonds to change up the nutty flavor.
- Mix in some cheese crackers for a cheesy twist on the flavor profile.
- Use dill seasoning powder instead of fresh dill for a milder flavor.