Harvest Spice Chex Apple Crunch
Delight in the warm and cozy flavors of fall with this irresistible Harvest Spice Chex Apple Crunch. This delicious snack mix combines the sweet and cinnamon-laden Cinnamon Chex with the light, crispy Rice Chex, offering a perfect crunch in every bite. The addition of walnuts provides a rich nutty flavor, while the brown sugar and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg create a comforting sweetness that feels like a hug in a bowl. Dried apples add a fruity chewiness that complements the mix beautifully, while a drizzle of melted vanilla baking chips brings an indulgent finish. Perfect for lunchboxes, gatherings, or as a delightful treat to enjoy on a chilly day, this easy-to-make snack mix will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy the season's flavors year-round with this delicious recipe!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cinnamon Chex Cereal
3 cups (None)
Rice Chex
3 cups (None)
Walnuts
1 cup (Chopped, if desired)
Brown Sugar
1/2 cup (Packed)
Butter
1/4 cup (Melted)
Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (None)
Ground Ginger
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Ground Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Dried Apples
2 cups (Coarsely chopped)
Vanilla Baking Chips
1 cup (None (6 oz))
Shortening
1 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cinnamon Chex cereal, Rice Chex cereal, and walnuts, ensuring they are well mixed.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside.
3
Carefully pour the warm mixture over the cereal and walnuts, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
4
Spread the coated mixture onto a sheet of waxed paper or foil, allowing it to cool completely. Once cooled, evenly sprinkle the chopped dried apples over the mixture.
5
In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the vanilla baking chips and shortening. Microwave uncovered on high for about 1 minute, stirring until smooth.
6
Drizzle the melted mixture over the cooled cereal snack mix, allowing it to set by letting it sit at room temperature.
7
Once set, break the mix into bite-sized pieces and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Harvest Spice Chex Apple Crunch?
It is a seasonal snack mix made with Cinnamon and Rice Chex cereal, walnuts, dried apples, and a warm spice coating topped with a vanilla drizzle.
What types of Chex cereal are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 3 cups of Cinnamon Chex Cereal and 3 cups of Rice Chex.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
How do I make the spice mixture for the cereal?
In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg over medium heat until smooth and bubbly.
What spices give this snack its fall flavor?
The warm flavors come from a blend of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg.
When should I add the dried apples?
The coarsely chopped dried apples should be sprinkled over the cereal mixture after it has been coated and spread out to cool.
How do I melt the vanilla baking chips?
Microwave them with a teaspoon of shortening in a microwave-safe bowl on high for about 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
Why is shortening added to the vanilla chips?
Shortening helps the vanilla chips melt into a smoother consistency, making it easier to drizzle over the snack mix.
How long does the snack mix need to sit before eating?
Allow the mix to sit at room temperature until the vanilla drizzle has completely set before breaking it into pieces.
How should I store the leftover Harvest Spice Chex Apple Crunch?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
How long will this snack mix stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, the mix will stay fresh for up to a week.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe that involves simple stovetop and microwave steps.
Can I use fresh apples instead of dried apples?
No, fresh apples have too much moisture and will make the cereal soggy. Dried apples provide the necessary chewy texture.
What should I do if I cannot find Cinnamon Chex?
You can use additional Rice Chex and increase the amount of ground cinnamon used in the butter mixture.
Does this recipe require baking in the oven?
No, this is a no-bake recipe; the coating is prepared on the stovetop and the mix sets at room temperature.
What is the best surface for cooling the mix?
A sheet of waxed paper or foil works best to prevent the mixture from sticking to your counter.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of vanilla baking chips?
Yes, white chocolate chips are a perfect substitute for vanilla baking chips in this recipe.
Is the brown sugar measured packed or loose?
The 1/2 cup of brown sugar should be packed into the measuring cup.
How do I ensure the cereal is evenly coated?
Pour the warm sugar and spice mixture over the cereal and walnuts in a large bowl and stir gently until everything is covered.
Can I add other dried fruits?
While the recipe calls for apples, you could also add dried cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and color.
Is this snack mix sweet or savory?
It is primarily a sweet snack mix, though the walnuts and cereal provide a slightly savory balance.
Can I make this recipe in a microwave only?
The vanilla drizzle is made in the microwave, but the sugar and spice coating is best prepared on the stovetop to ensure it reaches a bubbly consistency.
What size should the pieces be?
Once set, break the mixture into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, salted butter can be used and helps balance the sweetness of the brown sugar and vanilla.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Absolutely, it is a great party food that can be served in a large bowl or individual portions.
What is the prep time for the walnuts?
The walnuts should be chopped if they are not already in small pieces.
Can I use a different type of shortening?
Standard vegetable shortening works best for thinning out the melting chips.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total, including cereals, nuts, sugar, butter, spices, apples, and topping.
Should I stir the vanilla chips while microwaving?
Microwave for 1 minute first, then stir until the residual heat melts any remaining lumps into a smooth liquid.
Is this a good lunchbox snack?
Yes, it is a sturdy snack that travels well in a sealed bag or container.