When the leaves start turning golden and the air carries that first crisp breeze, I start craving snacks that feel like fall in every bite. This Easy Harvest Hash Chex Mix is just that — a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors that’s perfect for cozy movie nights, school snacks, or festive Halloween gatherings. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that uses simple pantry staples and comes together in minutes, but feels extra special with its seasonal colors and flavors.
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snack / Fall Treat | 10 minutes | 5 minutes | 12 servings | ~250 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 1 cup honey roasted peanuts
- 1 cup candy corn
- 1 cup M&M’s (fall colors if possible)
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 8 oz white chocolate or almond bark, chopped
- Optional: ½ teaspoon sea salt for extra flavor
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare your space – Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the dry ingredients – In a big mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts, candy corn, M&M’s, and butterscotch chips.
- Melt the chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate or almond bark in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until smooth. (Avoid overheating so it stays silky.)
- Coat the mix – Pour the melted chocolate over the dry mix and gently stir with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread and set – Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired.
- Cool and break apart – Let it sit at room temperature (or in the fridge for faster setting) until the chocolate is firm. Break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Melting tip: If your chocolate seizes, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to smooth it out.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
- Make ahead: This mix is perfect for prepping ahead for parties or gifting.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free: Swap peanuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Extra Chocolatey: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate before the white chocolate sets.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels and verify your candy ingredients are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in small festive cups for Halloween parties.
- Package in mason jars or treat bags for edible gifts.
- Enjoy alongside hot apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall treat.
Conclusion
This Easy Harvest Hash Chex Mix is the kind of snack that makes fall gatherings feel even warmer and more joyful. It’s crunchy, colorful, and just the right balance of sweet and salty — perfect for sharing with friends, family, or… just keeping for yourself. Make a batch, pour yourself something cozy, and savor the season.