Print

Quick Savory Ranch Chex Mix with Pretzels

quick savory ranch chex mix with pretzels - featured image

This quick savory ranch Chex mix with pretzels is an addictive, crunchy snack coated in buttery ranch seasoning. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights, parties, or road trips.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Rice Chex cereal (or Corn Chex, or a mix of both)
  • 3 cups mini pretzel twists (salted)
  • 1 cup roasted salted peanuts (optional)
  • 1 cup bite-sized cheese crackers (like Goldfish or Cheez-Its)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch dressing mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 9 cups Chex cereal, 3 cups mini pretzel twists, 1 cup peanuts (if using), and 1 cup cheese crackers. Stir gently.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in 20-second bursts. Whisk in the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using).
  4. Drizzle the butter-ranch mixture evenly over the cereal mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are coated, about 2 minutes.
  5. Spread the coated mix in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake at 250°F for 15 minutes. Stir the mix, then bake for another 10-15 minutes until coating is dry and cereal feels crisp.
  7. Cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes without touching.
  8. Break apart any large clumps and serve or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Don’t rush the cooling process; let the mix cool completely for crunchiest texture. Use room temperature cereal for best results. Double the batch if desired—use two baking sheets and rotate halfway through baking. For extra crunch, after cooling, spread on baking sheet and bake at 200°F for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chex mix, ranch, pretzels, snack mix, party snack, savory, quick, easy