Fall/Halloween Buddy Mix

Ingredients for Fall/Halloween Buddy Mix

• Base Mix:
  • 6 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn variety)
  • 2 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup salted peanuts or mixed nuts
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• Fall Candy Mix-Ins:
  • 1 cup candy corn
  • 1 cup Reese’s Pieces or M&M’s (fall colors)
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/4 cup festive fall or Halloween-themed sprinkles (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large microwave-safe bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large zip-top bag or airtight container
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet or large tray (for cooling)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-20 second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.

2. Coat the Cereal

Add the Chex cereal to the melted chocolate mixture and gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate. Be careful not to crush the cereal as you mix!

3. Add the Powdered Sugar

Transfer the coated cereal into a large zip-top bag or airtight container. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake well to coat the cereal completely. The cereal pieces should be covered in a white, sugary coating when done.

4. Mix in the Goodies

Pour the coated cereal into a large mixing bowl. Add the mini pretzels, peanuts, candy corn, Reese’s Pieces, marshmallows, and sprinkles. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients. You now have a colorful, sweet, and salty Fall/Halloween Buddy Mix!

5. Let It Cool and Serve

Spread the mix onto a baking sheet or large tray to cool and set for about 15-20 minutes. Once it’s completely cool, transfer it to a serving bowl, or divide it into small treat bags for gifting.

Notes and Tips

• Make it Your Own: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Swap out the candy corn for mini peanut butter cups, add caramel bits, or throw in some pumpkin spice-flavored candy for extra fall vibes.
• Storage: Store leftover buddy mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make it ahead for a party, you can prepare it a day or two in advance and it will stay fresh.
• Nut-Free Option: If you’re serving this mix at a party or event where there might be nut allergies, simply leave out the peanuts and use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.