Get ready to jingle all the way into snack time with this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! Every bite is a delightful mashup of crispy, chocolatey, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness that captures the magic of the holidays in a single handful. Perfect for festive gatherings, movie marathons, or as a charming edible gift, this colorful treat combines classic cereal crunch, sweet surprises, and just the right hint of peppermint sparkle. Whether you’re prepping ahead for a party or whipping up a last-minute snack with your favorite little elves, this mix is the ultimate way to spread cheer and satisfy sweet cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! comes from its playful blend of simple supermarket staples. Each ingredient pulls double duty: it adds its own flavor, its signature chew or crunch, and a pop of merry color to the mix—so don’t skip a single one!
- Rice Chex cereal (3 cups): The light, airy base that soaks up chocolate and adds an irresistible crispy crunch.
- Mini pretzels (2 cups): Salty, snappy bites that balance the sweetness and give a golden-brown twist.
- Holiday-colored M&Ms (1 cup): Toss in a classic chocolatey candy for rich flavor and a splash of seasonal red and green.
- Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Fluffy little clouds that bring soft texture and sweet whimsy.
- White chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Pockets of creamy sweetness waiting to melt in your mouth.
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (1/2 cup): For a refreshing, tingly crunch with a festive peppermint zing.
- Red and green sprinkles (1/2 cup): Because every elf snack needs some edible confetti!
- White chocolate or almond bark, melted (1 cup): The decadent “glue” that binds all the happiness together with a sweet kiss.
How to Make Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun!
Step 1: Gather and Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by choosing a giant mixing bowl—trust me, elves need plenty of room to work their magic! Pour in the Rice Chex, mini pretzels, M&Ms, mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, and festive sprinkles. Gently toss everything together with your clean hands or a big spatula. The party is already starting in your bowl!
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your white chocolate or almond bark in 20-30 second bursts, stirring each time, until it’s silky smooth. Take care not to overheat—smooth and pourable is perfect. This luscious coating is what will transform your simple ingredients into the magical Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun!
Step 3: Mix in the Melted Chocolate
Drizzle the warm melted white chocolate all over the dry mix. Now, gently stir (or fold, if you want to get fancy) to coat everything evenly. Work quickly so all the goodness gets glossy and every piece picks up a bit of chocolate magic.
Step 4: Spread Out and Let It Set
Transfer the coated mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single, even layer. If you spot any clusters sticking together, leave them as future “elf treats.” Let the mix rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
Step 5: Break Into Clusters and Store
Once set, break your Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! into chunky, irresistible clusters. Pile them into a serving bowl or transfer them straight to airtight containers or treat bags for easy gifting (if you haven’t nibbled it all yourself).
How to Serve Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun!
Garnishes
Sprinkle on extra red and green sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for an extra festive touch. Sometimes, a few extra holiday-shaped candies or chocolate drizzle on top make the bowl even more enchanting and Instagram-worthy!
Side Dishes
Pair this snack mix with mugs of hot cocoa, steamy lattes, or spiced cider for an unbeatable wintertime spread. For parties, surround it with a platter of holiday cookies or fruit, and watch your snack table disappear in a flash!
Creative Ways to Present
Scoop Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! into mason jars tied with colorful ribbon, or fill cellophane treat bags and close them with sparkly twist ties. For a showstopping touch, pile the mix high in a festive bowl and let guests scoop their own – it’s perfect for both snack buffets and cozy nights by the fireplace.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent the marshmallows from getting stale and the pretzels from losing their crunch.
Freezing
If you have more mix than you can eat (hard to imagine!), you can freeze it. Pack the snack mix into freezer-safe bags and squeeze out excess air. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes and enjoy.
Reheating
No reheating is necessary—this mix is meant to be enjoyed at room temperature! If your chocolate looks a bit frosty after freezing, just let the thawed mix sit out for a while, and it will be back to its crunchy, creamy best in no time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack
Absolutely! Cheerios, corn Chex, or even square rice cereal alternatives work beautifully. Just keep the crunchy base vibe, and you’ll still have a winning Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun!
How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap out the mini pretzels and cereal for certified gluten-free versions. Double-check your candies and chocolate chips, too, to make sure everything is gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate and vegan marshmallows, and pick candies and pretzels that fit your dietary needs. The result will still be a magical, munchable bowl of Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun!
How far in advance can I make this snack mix?
You can whip up a big batch up to a week ahead—great for party prep! Just store in a tightly-sealed container at room temperature, and it’ll stay fresh and fabulous.
Can I add extra ingredients or swap out candies?
Definitely! Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! is the perfect canvas. Try adding mini cookies, festive candy-coated chocolates, or even cinnamon chips. Customize to your heart’s content for your ideal holiday treat.
Final Thoughts
Sweet, crunchy, and ready in a flash—this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! is pure holiday joy in a bowl. Let your creativity (and sweet tooth) loose, and watch as friends and family light up when they dig in. You’ll be making this merry snack mix all season long!
Print
Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun! Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including setting time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Elf Snack Mix is a delightful combination of sweet, crunchy, and festive ingredients that make for a perfect holiday treat or gift. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite holiday candies, this mix is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
Ingredients
Rice Chex Cereal Mix:
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 1 cup holiday-colored M&Ms
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles
- 1 cup white chocolate or almond bark, melted
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex cereal, pretzels, M&Ms, marshmallows, white chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, and sprinkles. Toss gently to mix.
- Add Melted Chocolate: Pour melted white chocolate over the mix and stir carefully to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Set and Serve: Spread the mix on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it set for about 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Break into clusters and serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Get creative with holiday candies, colored chocolate, or add mini cookies for extra fun.
- This mix makes a great gift when packed in clear treat bags or festive tins.
- Store at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
