Fall Chex Mix combines everything you love about seasonal snacking—crunch, flavor, and fun. The warm blend of cinnamon and pumpkin spice pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements, making it the perfect treat to enjoy during cooler weather. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, kid-friendly, and great for parties or lunchbox snacks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rice Chex cereal
Corn Chex cereal
Pretzels (mini twists or sticks)
Pecans or mixed nuts
Maple syrup or brown sugar
Butter
Pumpkin pie spice
Cinnamon
Vanilla extract
Candy corn (optional)
Candy-coated chocolates (like fall-colored M&M’s)
Mini marshmallows or dried cranberries (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereals, pretzels, and nuts.
In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in maple syrup (or brown sugar), pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well blended.
Pour the spiced butter mixture over the dry ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Once cooled, add candy corn, candy-coated chocolates, and any other desired mix-ins. Stir to combine.
Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10 cups of mix. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes Total time: approximately 1 hour
Variations
Apple Cinnamon: Add dried apple pieces and swap pumpkin spice for extra cinnamon.
Spicy-Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a mild kick.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts and add extra cereal or pretzels for a school-safe version.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips after the mixture cools completely.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled mix for added sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels and Chex cereals labeled gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Store Fall Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. No reheating is necessary. For long-term storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Let come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this mix without baking it?
Yes, but baking enhances the flavor and helps the coating set. If skipping the oven, use less butter and refrigerate to set the coating.
What cereals work best?
Rice and Corn Chex are most common, but you can use Wheat Chex or even crispy oat cereals.
Is candy corn necessary?
No, it’s optional. You can swap in mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or more candy-coated chocolates.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey or brown sugar syrup will work, but maple adds a more fall-specific flavor.
How can I make it more festive?
Use fall-themed candies, leaf-shaped sprinkles, or Halloween colors to dress it up.
Can I add popcorn?
Yes, add air-popped popcorn after baking for extra volume and crunch.
Is it kid-friendly?
Very much so. Just be mindful of any nut allergies and choking hazards for younger kids.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, you can toss everything in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, then cool before adding mix-ins.
How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Make sure the mix cools completely before storing. Baking helps dry and crisp the ingredients.
Conclusion
Fall Chex Mix is the ultimate seasonal snack—easy, customizable, and loaded with cozy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fall get-together, prepping for a road trip, or just want something tasty to munch on, this mix hits all the right notes. Make a big batch and enjoy the sweet-spiced goodness of autumn in every crunchy bite.
Fall Chex Mix is a sweet and salty seasonal snack made with crunchy cereal, pretzels, nuts, and cozy autumn flavors like cinnamon and pumpkin spice. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for gatherings, gifting, or everyday snacking.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:10 cups
Category:Snack
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 cups Rice Chex cereal
3 cups Corn Chex cereal
2 cups mini pretzels
1 cup pecans or mixed nuts
1/2 cup butter
1/3 cup maple syrup or brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup candy corn (optional)
1/2 cup fall-colored candy-coated chocolates (like M&M’s)
1/2 cup mini marshmallows or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, pretzels, and nuts.
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in maple syrup (or brown sugar), pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until combined.
Pour the spiced butter mixture over the dry ingredients and toss gently until evenly coated.
Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.
Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Once cooled, stir in candy corn, candy-coated chocolates, and any other optional mix-ins.
Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Notes
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.Add popcorn or dried apple bits for texture and flavor variety.For a nut-free version, omit nuts and add more cereal or pretzels.Let mix cool completely before adding chocolate to prevent melting.Customize with festive sprinkles or Halloween-themed candies.
