Frito Snack Mix

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and sweet, then Frito Snack Mix is the perfect solution. This delightful combination of flavors and textures will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether it’s a game day, movie night, or just a casual gathering, this snack mix is sure to be a hit. With its easy preparation and delicious outcome, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Frito Snack Mix stands out for its irresistible blend of salty and sweet elements. The crunchy Fritos corn chips provide a satisfying base, while the Rice Chex cereal adds an extra layer of crunch. Pretzel twists contribute a bit of saltiness, and the nuts bring a hearty bite that’s hard to resist. The pièce de résistance is the sweet, buttery coating made from brown sugar and corn syrup, which makes every handful feel like a special treat. Topped off with colorful mini M&Ms, this snack mix is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for sharing.

Ingredient Checklist

• 15.5 ounces Fritos corn chips – The classic base for our snack mix.
• 2 cups Rice Chex cereal – Adds crunch and a light texture.
• 2 cups pretzel twists – Provides a salty bite to balance the sweetness.
• 1 cup mixed nuts – Walnuts, peanuts, or cashews are perfect for added richness.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar – For that sweet and chewy texture.
• 1 cup (1 stick) butter – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
• 1 cup light corn syrup – Creates a sticky, sweet coating.
• 1 cup mini M&Ms – For a pop of color and additional sweetness.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Baking sheet – A large one to spread out the mix.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• – For combining all the ingredients.
• Medium saucepan – To melt the butter and mix the syrup and sugar.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring everything together.

Frito Snack Mix: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your Frito Snack Mix gets nice and toasty.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the mix from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Fritos, Rice Chex cereal, pretzel twists, and mixed nuts. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Make the Sweet Coating

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles and thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the hot butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together until all the pieces are coated.

Step 7: Spread on Baking Sheet

Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure even baking and crisping.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. You want it golden brown, so keep an eye on it.

Step 9: Cool and Add M&Ms

Once baked, remove the snack mix from the oven and let it cool completely. After it’s cooled, gently mix in the mini M&Ms.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your Frito Snack Mix to a serving bowl or store it in an airtight container. Enjoy it as a snack or share it with friends!

Substitutions by Category

• Cereal – Swap Rice Chex with Corn Chex or your favorite cereal for a different flavor.
• Nuts – Use almonds or pecans instead of walnuts, peanuts, or cashews.
• Sweetener – For a twist, try using honey or agave syrup in place of corn syrup.
• Extras – Feel free to add in dried fruits or chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t skip the cooling step. Allowing the mix to cool will help it clump together and become crunchy.
• Avoid over-baking. Keep an eye on the mix to prevent burning.
• Do not use larger nuts without chopping them. Whole nuts can disrupt the balance of the mix.
• Don’t forget to stir halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Frito Snack Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to a week, though it’s likely to be eaten before then! If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a resealable bag. Just make sure to let it thaw completely before enjoying again.

FAQ

Can I make Frito Snack Mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. It’s a great make-ahead snack for parties.

What can I add to the mix for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a kick. You can also mix in some cheese-flavored snacks for a cheesy twist!

Can I use different types of corn chips?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different brands or flavors of corn chips. Just make sure they have a similar texture to Fritos for the best results.

Is this snack mix gluten-free?

To make this snack mix gluten-free, ensure that you use certified gluten-free pretzels and cereal. Most Fritos are gluten-free but always check the packaging.

Next Steps

Now that you have your recipe for Frito Snack Mix, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start mixing! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; they will surely appreciate your delicious treat. Enjoy every crunchy, sweet bite, and watch as it disappears in no time!