There is nothing quite like sharing a bowl of Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe with friends and family during the holiday season. This delightful treat combines the perfect balance of salty pretzels, crispy cereal, gooey mini marshmallows, and bursts of colorful M&M’s, all tied together with a smooth white chocolate and peanut butter coating. Every bite brings a fun crunch and a sweet finish that’s impossible to resist, making it a must-have snack for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe is a breeze because every component is simple and essential, thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor, texture, and festive color.
- 3 cups pretzel twists: The salty crunch that gives the mix its signature texture and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 3 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn): Light, crispy, and versatile, adding bulk and a delightful crunch to the mix.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows: Soft, chewy fun that melts slightly with the coating for a gooey surprise.
- 1 cup mini M&M’s (or holiday M&M’s): Pops of vibrant color and chocolatey sweetness that scream festive cheer.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Creamy sweetness that forms the luscious coating binding the mix together.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Adds richness and a slight savory nutty flavor to complement the sweet components.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: A dusting that adds a snowy, magical finish and subtle extra sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- Red and green sprinkles (optional): For that extra festive touch, they make the mix look as joyful as it tastes.
How to Make Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and tossing in your pretzel twists, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and mini M&M’s. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps you get an even distribution and ensures each bite will offer a variety of textures and flavors.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate and Peanut Butter
For that irresistible coating, melt the white chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. This is the magic that ties your Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe together.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract to give your coating a lovely depth of flavor. This step is subtle but makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Step 4: Coat the Snack Mix
Carefully pour the warm white chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients, tossing gently so everything gets an even, deliciously sweet coat. Go slow here to avoid crushing your marshmallows or M&M’s.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Spread your coated snack mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Allow it to cool and set so the coating hardens and every piece stays perfectly crunchy.
Step 6: Add the Final Festive Touches
Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over your Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe for that snowy effect and toss gently one more time. If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle on red and green sprinkles for a cheerful burst of holiday color.
Step 7: Let It Cool Completely Before Serving
Patience pays off here! Let the snack mix cool all the way to room temperature so it crisps up and you get that satisfying crunch with every bite.
How to Serve Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a little extra holiday-themed sprinkles or even edible glitter over the top before serving. Fresh cranberries or chopped nuts can also add a sophisticated twist if you want to mix things up a bit.
Side Dishes
This Elf Snack Mix pairs beautifully with warm drinks like hot cocoa or mulled cider. Its sweet and salty notes complement creamy beverages perfectly, making for a cozy treat station at any holiday gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this mix in festive mason jars tied with holiday ribbons or in colorful paper cones for easy party handouts. Edible gift bags or small tins make wonderful presents that your loved ones will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week, perfect for nibbling over several days or sharing with guests.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this snack mix freezes nicely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
Because this mix is best enjoyed crunchy and cool, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer the white chocolate slightly melty, a few seconds in a warm room or gentle microwave burst can do the trick, but be careful not to melt the mix completely.
FAQs
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can try milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer, though it will change the flavor slightly. White chocolate offers a creamy sweetness that complements the peanut butter best, but feel free to experiment.
Is this snack mix safe for people with nut allergies?
Since peanut butter is a key ingredient, it’s not suitable for those with peanut allergies. However, you could try sunflower seed butter or another nut-free spread to make it allergy-friendly.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe comes together quickly—about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for last-minute holiday parties or quick festive snacks.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, pretzel rods, or even candy cane pieces would all be wonderful additions. The base recipe is flexible and invites creativity.
Does the mix get soggy over time?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the mix stays crunchy. Exposure to moisture or improper storage can cause sogginess, so be sure to keep it sealed and dry.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, the Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe is your new holiday hero. With its delightful mix of textures, festive colors, and irresistible flavors, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe even a little holiday magic to your gatherings. So grab your ingredients, follow along, and get ready to share this joyful snack with everyone you love!
Print
Elf Snack Mix – Sweet, Crunchy, and Festive Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Elf Snack Mix is a sweet, crunchy, and festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings or a fun snack anytime. This easy-to-make blend features pretzels, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, mini M&M’s, and a smooth white chocolate and peanut butter coating, finished with powdered sugar and optional holiday sprinkles for extra cheer.
Ingredients
Snack Mix:
- 3 cups pretzel twists
- 3 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup mini M&M’s (or holiday M&M’s)
Coating:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and green sprinkles (optional for extra holiday cheer)
Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the pretzel twists, Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and mini M&M’s. Set this mixture aside for later coating.
- Melt the coating: Place the white chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add vanilla extract: Stir the vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate and peanut butter mixture until well combined.
- Coat the snack mix: Pour the melted mixture over the pretzel and cereal mix. Gently toss to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the white chocolate and peanut butter blend.
- Cool the snack mix: Spread the coated snack mixture evenly on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to cool and set.
- Add finishing touches: Once the mixture has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over it and toss gently to coat. For a festive touch, add red and green sprinkles if desired.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the snack mix to cool completely before serving to ensure the coating is set and crunchy.
Notes
- Use rice or corn Chex cereal based on preference or availability.
- The peanut butter adds richness, but can be substituted with almond butter for a different flavor.
- Microwave the coating mixture carefully to avoid burning the white chocolate.
- The powdered sugar adds a light sweetness and a festive snowy effect.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Add or omit sprinkles according to occasion or dietary preferences.
