Pumpkin Spice Snack Mix
A delightful autumn treat combining sweet maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and crunchy textures, perfect for cozy gatherings or simple evenings at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 cups rice or corn square cereal Base ingredient providing texture.
- 2 cups mini pretzels Adds salty crunch.
- 1 cup pecan halves Provides a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup pepitas Pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter Acts as a glue for the flavors.
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar Adds caramel-like sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup Natural sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice Key flavoring ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 3/4 teaspoon fine salt Balances sweetness.
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries Adds tartness and texture.
- 1 cup fall candy, such as candy corn or candy-coated chocolate For added sweetness and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cereal, pretzels, pecans, and pepitas. Toss gently to mix well.
Making the Glaze
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Combining the Mixtures
- Pour the glaze over the cereal mixture, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
Baking
- Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheets. Bake for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until golden-brown.
Final Steps
- Let the mix cool completely on the pans. Then toss in the dried cranberries and fall candy before serving.
Notes
To elevate the snack mix, consider using a variety of nuts or adjusting the pumpkin pie spice to your taste. Experiment with other dried fruits and for a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.