If you are craving a festive treat that’s as delightful to munch on as it is to share, you’ll want to try this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe. Bursting with a perfect blend of salty pretzels, crispy Chex cereal, sweet mini marshmallows, and colorful M&M’s, all wrapped in luscious white chocolate and peanut butter, this snack mix brings holiday cheer in every bite. It’s simple to whip up, irresistibly tasty, and will quickly become your go-to for parties, gift-giving, or a cozy night snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe are straightforward but come together beautifully to create a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to beat. Each component plays an essential role—from the salty crunch of pretzels to the creamy melt of white chocolate and peanut butter, finishing with festive colors that brighten the snack.
- 3 cups pretzel twists: Their salty crunch creates the savory backbone of the mix.
- 3 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn): Adds a light, crispy texture that balances the other mix-ins.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows: Provides pillowy, sweet bursts throughout the snack.
- 1 cup mini M&M’s (or holiday M&M’s): Brings colorful, chocolatey pops that make the mix fun and festive.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds creamy sweetness that coats the whole mix perfectly.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Introduces a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and marshmallows.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Dusts the mix with an extra touch of sweetness and a hint of festive powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic note.
- Red and green sprinkles (optional): Adds a cheerful holiday touch that makes this mix visually irresistible.
How to Make Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Crunchy Base
Start by tossing together the pretzel twists, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and mini M&M’s in a large mixing bowl. This crunchy, colorful mix provides the foundation you’ll build your sweet treat on. The variety of shapes and textures makes every handful exciting.
Step 2: Melt the Sweet, Nutty Coating
Next, melt the white chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in 30-second bursts, stirring each time to ensure a smooth blend without burning. This luscious combination will bind the entire mix delightfully.
Step 3: Add Vanilla for Extra Flavor
After the chocolate and peanut butter are perfectly melted and mixed, stir in the vanilla extract. This little addition elevates the mix with a warm, mellow aroma that complements the sweet and salty elements.
Step 4: Coat the Snack Mix Evenly
Pour the white chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the crunchy snack bases. Toss gently but thoroughly to make sure every pretzel and cereal piece is coated with sweet, creamy goodness. This step is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into an irresistible treat.
Step 5: Spread Out to Cool
Transfer the coated mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. Letting it cool flat helps it set perfectly and prevents clumping, so each bite stays wonderfully crunchy and ready for snacking.
Step 6: Sprinkle the Festive Finish
Once the mix has cooled slightly, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top and toss gently again. For a merry touch, add red and green sprinkles to give your Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe an extra dose of holiday spirit that will impress both kids and adults alike.
Step 7: Chill and Enjoy!
Allow the snack mix to cool completely until the coating is set. Now it’s ready for you to dig in! This Elf Snack Mix is perfect for sharing or just enjoying during a cozy afternoon treat session.
How to Serve Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a few extra marshmallows on top when serving. These simple garnishes add contrasting textures and a festive scent, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Side Dishes
This Elf Snack Mix pairs beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa, holiday-themed lattes, or even a cold glass of milk. The creamy drinks balance the snack’s crunch and sweetness perfectly, making it an ideal treat station at holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Package this snack mix in clear Mason jars tied with festive ribbons or serve it in holiday-themed bowls for a charming presentation. For gift-giving, portion it into decorative cellophane bags. It’s a delightful surprise that spreads joy and tastes just as good as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Elf Snack Mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crunchy for up to 5 days, making it a convenient go-to snack that you can enjoy throughout the week without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the snack mix in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it can keep well for up to a month. Just thaw it at room temperature before enjoying so the coating softens just enough.
Reheating
This type of snack mix doesn’t require reheating, but if the coating feels too firm after freezing, simply leave it out for a bit to reach room temperature. If needed, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can soften it back up, but be cautious not to melt it completely.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference. Keep in mind that dark chocolate will add a richer flavor, while milk chocolate gives a creamier sweetness. The peanut butter pairs well with any of these.
Is there a nut-free version of this Elf Snack Mix?
Yes, you can omit the peanut butter or substitute it with a nut-free spread like sunflower seed butter to keep it allergy-friendly without sacrificing taste and texture.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or pretzel rods can all make delicious additions. Just make sure to keep the balance of sweet and salty in mind to maintain that perfect flavor harmony.
How long does the Elf Snack Mix stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it will remain fresh and crunchy for about 5 days at room temperature. Be sure to keep it away from heat and humidity to preserve its texture.
Is this recipe suitable for kids to help make?
Yes! This Elf Snack Mix is a wonderful kid-friendly project because it involves simple mixing and pouring with minimal use of heat. Just adult supervision is needed during the melting step for safety.
Final Thoughts
If you want to add an easy, festive, and truly delicious treat to your holiday repertoire, this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s playful, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles whether you’re snacking alone or celebrating with friends and family. Go ahead and make a batch—you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed the holidays without it!
Print
Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Fun Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Elf Snack Mix is a delightful sweet and crunchy treat perfect for holiday snacking. Combining pretzel twists, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and festive M&M’s, it’s all coated in a creamy melted white chocolate and peanut butter mixture, then dusted with powdered sugar and optional holiday sprinkles for extra cheer.
Ingredients
Snack Mix
- 3 cups pretzel twists
- 3 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup mini M&M’s (or holiday M&M’s)
Coating
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Red and green sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Combine snack ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzel twists, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and mini M&M’s. Set aside.
- Melt coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips and peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and well combined.
- Add vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly into the melted mixture to enhance flavor.
- Coat snack mix: Pour the melted white chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the snack mix, tossing gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Cool on baking sheet: Spread the coated snack mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing it to cool slightly and set.
- Add toppings: Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the snack mix and toss again to distribute. Add red and green sprinkles for a festive holiday touch if desired.
- Final cooling: Let the snack mix cool completely until the coating hardens before serving. Enjoy your crunchy, sweet holiday treat!
Notes
- The snack mix can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free variation.
- Use gluten-free pretzels and cereal to make this mix gluten-free.
- Adding red and green sprinkles is optional but adds festive holiday colors.
- Be careful when melting the chocolate and peanut butter; microwave in short bursts to avoid burning.
