Firecracker Chex Mix (Spicy Chex Mix)

Do you love snacks with bold flavors? Ones that features crunch and spice while being perfect for movie nights, game days, and countertop snacks? Then you're going to love this Firecracker Chex Mix! It's a perfect combo of all the best flavors including just a whisper of background heat. How could you get better that an elevated Chex Mix?

So, if you are looking for a crave-worthy snack to serve a crowd, your family, or just something to get through the week, this recipe will not disappoint—it's quick and easy to make! We love snacks so if you crave a cheesy snack try this Homemade Cheesy Chex Mix that is equally delicious with a great cheddar flavor.

Why You'll Love This Firecracker Chex Mix Recipe!

I love getting a burst of flavors from this Firecracker Chex Mix. This snack is meant to be shared. It is perfect for game day, movie nights at home, road trip snacks, or satisfying cravings.

Here are some great reasons why you need to try this Firecracker Chex Mix:

• A burst of flavor—the perfect blend of salty and spicy in a crunchy bite!
• No fuss—this gem only requires a few pantry staples and a little time in the oven.
• There are no mysteries or hidden ingredients. You are sure what's in your snacks. No preservatives are used, just authentic flavors.
• Customizable spice—You can customize how much fire goes into your Firecracker Chex Mix. Add extra chipotle or red pepper flakes if you want to dial up the heat.
• Excellent for parties or gifts—It is a wonderful idea for gifting or as a party favor, as it stays crunchy and flavorful for days. You can package it in mason jars.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Rimmed baking trays
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or Spoon for mixing

Key Ingredients

Chex Mix Base

• Corn and wheat Chex provide the Chex's signature light, crispy crunch.
• Mini pretzels - Source of the salty bite and nice texture.
• Cheez-its and oyster crackers - Add savory flavor and variety.
• Mixed nuts - They add crunch and richness.

Flavor Sauce

• Unsalted butter - the base of the flavor coating.
• Worcestershire sauce - it provides a deep umami flavor.
• Ranch popcorn seasoning - It gives an addictive, tangy kick.
• Brown sugar - It balances the spice and adds a little sweetness.
• Spices (onion powder, garlic powder, chipotle powder, and red pepper flakes) create the warm "firecracker" flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

To start making this yummy party mix, preheat your oven to 250°F or 120°C.

Combine the Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, Cheeze-Its, oyster crackers, pretzels, and mixed nuts in a large bowl and stir them gently.

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat to make the flavor sauce. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ranch seasoning, brown sugar, and spices such as onion powder, garlic powder, chipotle powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.

Pour the flavor sauce over the Chex mixture while stirring gently and continuously to ensure that everything is coated evenly.

Spread the mixture onto two rimmed baking trays. Make sure that the layer is even. Bake it for 1 hour in the preheated oven. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even flavor distribution and toasting.

Cool the cereal mix completely before storing and serving.

Make Ahead

Firecracker Chex Mix is an excellent make-ahead recipe. Its flavor will develop more after a day or so. Ensure it cools completely before storing it to keep it crisp and prevent it from getting soggy.

Storage

You may store this Firecracker Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it has completely cooled before storing.

Chex mix can be frozen, however it may lose its crispness so you may want to test freezing a small batch first to see how it thaws out.

Substitutions And Additions

Spice—If it is too spicy, lessen the chipotle and red pepper flakes. The ranch seasoning and Worcestershire will still bring a nice flavor. If you want it spicier, add additional chipotle and red pepper flakes.

Add-ins to try - For an additional flavor profile, you may add sesame sticks, bagel chips, goldfish crackers, or popcorn.

Nut-free version - Omit adding mixed nuts and add more Chex and pretzels instead.

Expert Tips

• Use the largest bowl you have to mix this recipe. My bowl holds 8 quarts so it was just large enough to hold all of the cereal, crackers and nuts and give enough space to easily stir the ingredients without making a mess.
• Drizzle the sauce slowly while stirring. Because this recipe makes a large quantity you want to make sure all of the mixture is evenly coated. To do this drizzle and stir so every piece is coated with the spicy mixture!
• Use 2 large rimmed baking trays. This will help you evenly spread all of the ingredients out so they can crisp more evenly. Otherwise the Chex Mix could get soggy if it is not dried out properly in the oven.

How Spicy Is This Recipe?

I know the name firecracker may worry some that this is so spicy it won't be the right recipe for them. Rest assured when testing this snack mix I made it for my little niece and nephew that are 5 and 2 years old. No one complained about it being too spicy. Of course if you want it hot and are making it for a more adult crowd double up on the red pepper flakes and chipotle seasoning!

Did you try this recipe? Please let me know what you think! Leave a comment below, and a 5- star rating. I would love to hear from you! Subscribe Here to get new recipes sent straight to your inbox!