Description
This snack mix is a mouthwatering blend of crunchy pretzels, nuts, and crispy cereal, all tossed in a tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet seasoning inspired by Tennessee’s famous barbecue flavors. It’s easy to make, perfect for road trips, and sure to satisfy your hunger between stops!
Ingredients
Snack Mix Base:
- 4 cups mini pretzels
- 2 cups peanuts (or mixed nuts)
- 2 cups Chex cereal (or your favorite corn cereal)
- 1 cup corn nuts or crispy rice crackers
- (Optional) 1 cup bite-sized crackers
Seasoning Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Tennessee-style BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mini pretzels, peanuts, Chex cereal, corn nuts, and (if using) bite-sized crackers. -
Prepare Seasoning:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, Tennessee BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt until smooth. -
Combine:
Drizzle the seasoning mixture over the dry snack mix. Toss gently but thoroughly so that all pieces are evenly coated. -
Bake:
Spread the mix in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, stirring once or twice halfway through. The mix should become fragrant and slightly toasted, but be careful not to overbake.
-
Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container and enjoy this delicious, portable snack on your next road trip!
Notes
- Feel free to customize the mix by swapping in your favorite nuts, cereal, or crackers.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning.
- This mix is best enjoyed at room temperature. It keeps well for up to a week when stored in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 cup of snack mix
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Sugar: ~8 g
- Sodium: ~250 mg
- Fat: ~7 g
- Saturated Fat: ~3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~18 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Protein: ~4 g
- Cholesterol: ~10 mg