Crunchy Snack Mix Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Servings: Approximately 8 cups
This Crunchy Snack Mix is the perfect balance of savory and crispy, bringing together the rich flavors of cashews and peanuts with a zesty tang from Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. Baked to crispy perfection, it’s the ideal treat for parties, movie nights, or just when you need something crunchy to snack on. Enjoy this simple, yet addictive snack that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cashews | 7 oz |
| Peanuts | 1 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 1/2 tbsp |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 2 1/2 tbsp |
| (Optional) Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| (Optional) Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| (Optional) Cereal (Corn or Rice) | 3 cups |
| (Optional) Pretzels | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving: 1/2 cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 286.2 kcal |
| Fat | 16.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 1.2 mg |
| Sodium | 487.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.9 g |
| Sugars | 3.1 g |
| Protein | 5.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by measuring out your cashews and peanuts into a large mixing bowl. If you’re adding cereal or pretzels, toss those in as well for extra crunch and flavor. Ensure the cereal is broken up into bite-sized pieces for even coating.
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Melt the Margarine: In a small saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. This mixture adds the perfect savory punch to the mix. If you’d like to spice things up, feel free to sprinkle in a little garlic powder or onion powder at this stage.
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Combine and Coat: Pour the melted margarine mixture over the nuts and cereal in your mixing bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients. Be sure to evenly coat each piece of cereal and nut so the flavor is balanced throughout.
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Spread the Mixture: Once everything is well-coated, spread the snack mix evenly onto a baking sheet. Use a shallow baking sheet with sides to prevent the ingredients from sliding off. If you don’t have a deep baking sheet, consider using two sheets for better air circulation and even baking.
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Bake: Place the sheet in the oven preheated to 450°F (232°C). Bake for 45–60 minutes, stirring the mixture every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking. The goal is to achieve a nice, crispy texture on every piece without overbaking. Be sure to check the mix for doneness as the cooking time can vary depending on the size of the sheet and your oven.
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Cool and Serve: Once the Crunchy Snack Mix is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool. Lay the snack mix out on paper towels to absorb any excess butter or margarine. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Tips for the Perfect Snack Mix
- Customize Your Mix: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients. A handful of pretzels, small crackers, or even dried fruit can enhance the texture and flavor of this snack mix. For a spicier twist, sprinkle in some chili powder or red pepper flakes before baking.
- Make It Sweeter: If you prefer a sweet-savory combo, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top before baking for a caramelized coating.
- Storage: This snack mix will stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It also makes an excellent gift when packaged in mason jars or festive tins!
This Crunchy Snack Mix is as versatile as it is delicious, making it an easy addition to any snack rotation. Whether you’re preparing for a party or simply craving something crunchy, this mix is sure to satisfy. Be sure to share the love—it’s the kind of snack you’ll want to pass around!
