Chex-inspired Spiced Nut Mix
I grew up on Chex mix–the real oven roasted version, not that new microwaved quick version. Muddy buddies or puppy chow was another Chex based snack we often made. They’re both such an easy snack, but neither is the best choice for a healthy food. What if I told you you could make a snack that’s just as tasty as that savory Chex mix without all the grains?
Spices
I present to you my Chex-inspired Spiced Nut Mix recipe! I use the same seasonings as the original recipe, just use a mixture of nuts as the base instead of the carb heavy cereal mix. Using more than one type of nut will give you the diversity of flavor we want. Nuts also give you that salty crunch we love to see.
Nuts Mix
You can use whatever nuts and seeds you’d like to use, giving you the cheapest option for your area, the best nuts for your health goals, or just your favorite flavors. I’m using a mixture of cashews, peanuts, almonds, pistachios, and pecans because I wanted to choose my favorite nuts, but also wanted to keep things in a reasonable budget for me.
Small Batch
While I usually make small batch recipes for just 1-2 people, there are some recipes I like to have a little larger because they make great meal prep options for the rest of the week, or as is the case for this week, fit for a small gathering. This is one of those recipes! The classic Chex Mix recipe makes 12 cups, while mine makes just 2 cups, so it’s still scaled down. Be sure to save any leftovers in an airtight container! Pro tip: if you like to endlessly snack, pre-portion servings to easily grab later.
Game Day Recipes
If you’re looking for other game day food, be sure to also check out these recipes:
Chex-inspired Spiced Nut Mix
8 servings
A healthier alternative of Chex Mix with all the flavor and mixed nuts as the base.
Ingredients
2 cups unsalted mixed nuts
1 Tbsp butter
1 tsp worchestershire sauce
1/4 tsp seasoned salt
1/8 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp onion powder
Method
Preheat oven to 250F
Melt butter in a small bowl in the microwave, about 30 seconds. Mix in spices.
Mix nuts together on sheet tray or roasting pan. Pour butter mixture over and toss to coat.
Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Spread over paper towels to cool.
Store in an airtight container.
Notes:
Mixed nuts: you can find unsalted mixed nuts to use for this, but for me it’s cheaper to buy them individually. Whatever kind of nuts are your favorites you can mix and match to make a total of 2 cups.
My nut mix today:
½ cup cashews
½ cup peanuts
½ cup almonds
¼ cup pistachios (I have some chili spiced ones from Costco I always keep on hand)
¼ cup pecans
You can also add seeds for more flavor!
You can melt the butter on your tray in the oven or on the stovetop if you prefer.