This Easy Sweet and Salty Fall Snack Mix is the ultimate no-bake treat for any autumn occasion, from Halloween parties to cozy movie nights. It’s a completely addictive, crowd-pleasing mix that’s loaded with a perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors. Classic snacks like pretzels and Bugles are tossed with festive fall candies like M&M’s and candy corn, creating a snack that’s impossible to stop eating.
This recipe is the definition of easy—it takes just five minutes to throw together, requires no oven, and is completely customizable to your favorite snacks. It’s the perfect big-batch treat for feeding a crowd, packaging up as party favors, or simply having on hand for when a snack craving strikes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & 5-Minute Prep: The easiest party snack you’ll ever make, with no cooking required.
- The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Mix: The perfect, addictive balance of sweet candy and salty, crunchy snacks.
- Perfect for Parties: Makes a huge batch, perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or school events.
- Completely Customizable: A “no rules” recipe that’s easy to adapt with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Bugles or Corn Chex Cereal
- 3 cups Mini Pretzels
- 2 cups Popped Popcorn
- 1 cup Fall-colored M&M’s
- 1 cup Reese’s Pieces
- 1 cup Candy Corn
- 1 cup Salted Peanuts or Pecans
- Optional: 1 cup white chocolate melting wafers, for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the Bugles, pretzels, popcorn, M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, candy corn, and peanuts.
- Mix Gently: Use a large spatula or your hands to gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the snack mix in an even layer. Melt the white chocolate wafers in the microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the snack mix.
- Set and Serve: Let the snack mix sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely hardened. Gently break the mix apart into clusters and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Pro Tip: If you’re adding a chocolate drizzle, work quickly and use a spoon or a fork to flick the chocolate over the mix for a nice, even pattern.
- Add Different Candies: Mini Reese’s cups, candy corn pumpkins, or even chocolate-covered pretzels would be delicious additions.
- Different Salty Snacks: Swap in other crunchy items like cheese crackers, different types of cereal, or sesame sticks.
- Make it Nut-Free: To make this allergy-friendly, simply omit the nuts and double-check that your candy ingredients are nut-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How do I store this snack mix?
- Store it in a large airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to one week.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely. This is the perfect make-ahead party snack. You can prepare it up to 3-4 days in advance for the best freshness.
- How do I keep the snack mix from getting stale?
- The key is to store it in a well-sealed, airtight container as soon as it’s made (and the chocolate has set).
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this fall snack mix in a large, festive bowl for guests to scoop out at a Halloween or Thanksgiving party. It’s also perfect for portioning into individual cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon for party favors, school treats, or game day snacks.
Sweet and Salty Fall Snack Mix
This easy Fall Snack Mix blends crunchy, sweet, and salty favorites like Chex, pretzels, candy corn, caramel popcorn, and M&Ms. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or cozy autumn snacking!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Serving bowls or snack cups (optional)
Ingredients
- 3 cups Crispix or chocolate Chex
- 3 cups pretzels (white chocolate, chocolate, or plain)
- 11 oz bag candy corn
- 11 oz bag candy pumpkins
- 10 oz bag peanut M&Ms
- 9 oz bag M&Ms (orange and cream or seasonal)
- 7.6 oz bag Rolo’s candy
- 5.29 oz bag caramel popcorn (e.g., Werther’s Original)
- 1 cup peanuts
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and toss gently until evenly mixed.
- Alternatively, place each ingredient in separate small bowls and let guests build their own mix.
Notes
This delectable trail mix captures the essence of fall with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Whether cozying up by the fireplace or hiking through crisp autumn air, this mix is your perfect companion. Serve tossed together in one big bowl or separated into snack bowls so guests can pick their favorites.
