Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air is tinged with hints of cinnamon, and the leaves are starting to carpet the ground in shades of amber—autumn is here! As the chill invites cozy gatherings, I’ve discovered the perfect snack to accompany those homey moments: Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix. This delightful concoction brings together the hearty crunch of cereals with a sweet pumpkin glaze that embraces the season. What I love most about this recipe is how beginner-friendly it is, making it an enjoyable project to whip up, even on a busy day. Plus, it’s gluten-free when you choose the right ingredients, allowing everyone to indulge without worry. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or curling up with a movie, this comforting snack will surely steal the show. Curious about how to make your own batch of this cozy fall treat? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix a Must-Try? Warmth in Every Bite: This Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix captures the essence of fall with its comforting blend of spices and sweet pumpkin glaze. Effortless Preparation: Perfect for beginners, this easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal fuss, making it a go-to snack on busy days. Versatile Snack Option: Great for movie nights or holiday gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with warm drinks or even as a delightful gift! Gluten-Free Enjoyment: Simply swap for gluten-free cereals and pretzels, ensuring that everyone can join in on the fun. Flavorful Texture Contrast: The crunch of Chex blends beautifully with chewy cranberries and salty pretzels, creating a balanced snack that delights the senses. This cozy treat is perfect for your autumn gatherings, and if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my other fall snacks that your guests will adore! Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Ingredients For the Cereal Base Rice Chex cereal – Creates a light and crispy base, soaking up the glaze without becoming soggy. Wheat Chex cereal – Adds a hearty, nutty crunch for balance and depth. For the Crunchy Elements Pretzel sticks – Introduce a salty, crunchy element that complements the sweetness of the mix. Pecans – Provide rich, buttery richness and tenderness with each bite. For the Sweet Coating Unsalted butter – Acts as a binding agent for the glaze, ensuring a smooth, even coating. Brown sugar – Sweetens the mix and contributes to its caramel-like finish. Pumpkin puree – Infuses the snack with authentic fall flavor and helps create a sticky coating. Pumpkin pie spice – Blends warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves) for that signature autumn taste. Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds a fragrant aroma. For the Chewy Additions Dried cranberries – Offer chewy, tart bursts of flavor that contrast with the sweet coating. This delightful Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix will surely elevate your autumn snacking experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This temperature will ensure that the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix bakes evenly, allowing for that perfect crispy texture. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients so that you are ready to blend them seamlessly. Step 2: Combine the Cereals In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex cereal, Wheat Chex cereal, pretzel sticks, pecans, and dried cranberries. Gently mix together until everything is well-distributed, taking care not to crush the cereal. This blend creates a delightful crunch that will be beautifully complemented by the sweet glaze. Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Glaze In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, stirring continuously. Once melted, add in the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Cook and stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and glossy, about 3-5 minutes. This fragrant glaze will coat the cereal blend and infuse it with rich autumn flavors. Step 4: Coat the Cereal Blend Once your glaze is ready, pour it over the combined cereal mixture in the bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the glaze into the mix, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. You want the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to have that deliciously sticky glaze without being overly soggy. Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Carefully spread the coated Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix onto the baking sheet in an even layer. This placement helps the mix bake uniformly, giving it that perfect crunchy texture we all crave. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Make sure to stir the mix every 15 minutes to promote even browning. You’ll know it’s done when it turns a lovely golden brown and releases an enticing aroma throughout your kitchen. Step 7: Cool the Chex Mix After baking, remove the sheet from the oven and allow the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. Patience is key here, as cooling will help achieve that satisfying crispy texture. The mix will become more cohesive as it cools, making it even more delightful to snack on. Step 8: Store and Enjoy Once cool, transfer your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, retaining its delicious crunch. Enjoy this cozy fall snack now, or share it with friends and family at your next gathering! Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful snack and tailor it to your taste preferences! Chocolate Delight: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate for a sweet twist. The creamy chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spice! Nutty Boost: Swap out pecans for your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts for a diverse crunch. Each nut brings its unique flavor, enhancing the overall texture. Fruity Addition: Toss in some dried apples or cinnamon-covered raisins for extra sweetness and chewy bites. The fruity bursts will add a luscious contrast to each crunchy handful. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a warm, spicy kick. This hidden heat juxtaposes beautifully with the sweet, spiced pumpkin glaze! Cereal Swap: Replace Rice Chex with Corn Chex or granola for different flavors and textures. Each alternative brings its crunchy goodness, perfect for your autumn mix. Gluten-Free Fun: Use certified gluten-free cereals and pretzels to ensure everyone can enjoy this snack. Gluten-free options allow everyone to indulge without concern! Savory Twist: Incorporate cheese crackers or bagel chips for a savory touch. This unexpected addition introduces a delightful mix of sweet and salty flavors! Candy Corn Cheer: Fold in candy corn for a seasonal touch and delightful sweetness. The colorful bits add a fun element to your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix, making it even more festive. Explore the endless possibilities with your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix, and don’t forget to check out my fall snacks collection for more tasty ideas! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, maintaining its delightful crunch. Fridge: Although not necessary, you can refrigerate the mix in a sealed container if you prefer extra freshness; just be aware it may lose some crunchiness over time. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the mix in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating: If you prefer a warm snack, reheat in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its crispy texture. Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time on hectic days! You can prepare the dry ingredients—Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzel sticks, pecans, and dried cranberries—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to make the glaze (which can be done up to 24 hours before serving), melt the butter and mix in the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. After coating the cereal mixture, bake as directed. This approach ensures that your delightful fall snack is just as delicious while allowing you to enjoy your gatherings with minimal fuss! What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix As the autumn chill sets in, complement your cozy gatherings with delightful accompaniments for this crunchy, spiced snack. Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage that enhances the pumpkin flavors, creating a harmonious autumn experience. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: The rich, velvety texture pairs beautifully with the crunch of the Chex mix, offering a comforting contrast. Cheese Platter: Including sharp cheddar or creamy brie adds a savory kick, balancing the sweetness of the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel on the side for a sweet twist that adds depth to each crunchy bite. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Simple yet satisfying, these will bring a beloved dessert element to your cozy snack spread. Spiced Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink warms the soul while the flavors echo the spices in your Chex mix, making every sip delightful. Pumpkin Muffins: Elevate the pumpkin theme with a soft, spiced muffin that echoes the flavors of your snack. Cranberry Ginger Ale: This refreshing, bubbly drink offers a bright contrast to the heartiness of the Chex mix while adding a pop of color. Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Even Coating: Ensure all cereal pieces are thoroughly coated with the pumpkin glaze to prevent any dry bites in your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix. Monitor Baking: Stir the mix every 15 minutes while baking to avoid burning and achieve a uniform crunch. Cooling Time: Allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial for maximizing crispiness before storing. Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap Rice Chex for Corn Chex or granola for a different flavor and nutty aroma that complements the fall theme. Storage Tips: Store the mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to a week, ensuring you can indulge in this autumn delight for days! Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix? Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for cereal that is fresh and free of any dark spots or damage. For pecans, choose ones that are firm and smell nutty; avoid any that smell rancid. Dried cranberries should be plump and vibrant in color—skip any that appear shriveled or overly hard. How should I store Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to keep it fresh? To keep your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This prevents moisture from making it soggy. If you want to maintain that delightful crunch, be sure not to open and close the container frequently. Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix for later? Yes! To freeze your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix, place it in a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature, and if you like, you can reheat it in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture. What should I do if my Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix turns out too soggy? If you find your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is soggy, don’t despair! This usually happens from either too much glaze or insufficient cooling. To fix it, spread the mix out on a baking sheet and pop it back in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning—this should help restore some of that coveted crunch! Is Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix safe for people with gluten allergies? Definitely! For a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix, be sure to use certified gluten-free Rice Chex and pretzel sticks. This way, everyone can enjoy this cozy snack without worry. Always check labels to ensure each ingredient meets your dietary needs. Can I add different ingredients to my Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix? Very! Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or seasonal candies like candy corn. This not only enhances the sweetness but also gives it a fun twist! Mix and match to suit your taste—remember, the more the merrier! Cozy Up with Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix: Your New Fall Favorite Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix combines crunchy cereals and sweet pumpkin glaze, making it a must-try fall favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 cupsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cereal Base3 cups Rice Chex cereal Creates a light and crispy base.3 cups Wheat Chex cereal Adds a hearty, nutty crunch.For the Crunchy Elements2 cups Pretzel sticks Introduce a salty, crunchy element.1 cup Pecans Provides rich, buttery richness.For the Sweet Coating1/2 cup Unsalted butter Acts as a binding agent.1 cup Brown sugar Sweetens the mix.1/2 cup Pumpkin puree Infuses authentic fall flavor.1 tablespoon Pumpkin pie spice Blends warm spices for autumn taste.1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances sweetness and aroma.For the Chewy Additions1 cup Dried cranberries Offer chewy, tart bursts of flavor. Equipment Large mixing bowlsaucepanbaking sheetparchment paperspatulameasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Chex MixPreheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).Combine the Rice Chex cereal, Wheat Chex cereal, pretzel sticks, pecans, and dried cranberries in a large mixing bowl.In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth.Pour the glaze over the cereal mixture, gently folding it to ensure even coating.Spread the coated mix onto a lined baking sheet in an even layer.Bake in the oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until golden brown.Allow the Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix to cool completely on the baking sheet.Transfer the cooled mix to an airtight container for storage. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesThis Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix is deliciously crunchy and perfect for sharing during fall gatherings. Substitute Rice Chex for Corn Chex for a different flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
