This classic comfort snack incorporates pecans, bagel chips, and other goodies that make for a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Grandma’s Chex Mix

My grandmother’s Chex mix was always one of the most coveted by friends and family near and far, and highly anticipated every year. As simple as this recipe may seem, it is all about cooking low and slow to get the perfect crunch and evenly dispersing the butter mixture to ensure every bite is satisfying. Of course, bagel chips were not a thing when Grandma made this recipe—she used more pretzels and cereal—but we think they make for an excellent texture addition.
Servings: 15 Cups

Ingredients

  • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons seasoning salt such as Lawry’s
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 cups bagel chips
  • 4 1/2 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 4 1/2 cups Wheat Chex cereal
  • 2 cups pretzel sticks
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 250°F. Arrange 2 racks to divide the oven into thirds.
  • Place the butter in a medium, microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 10-second intervals until fully melted, 50–60 seconds total. Add worcestershire sauce, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne, and whisk well to combine.
  • Place bagel chips in a large bowl and lightly crush them with your hands into bite-size pieces. Add Rice Chex and Wheat Chex, pretzels, pecans, and peanuts, and lightly toss to combine.
  • Pour half of the butter mixture over the Chex mixture and gently toss to coat. Pour in the remaining butter mixture and gently toss again.
  • Transfer the mixture onto two large baking sheets and spread into an even layer. Bake, stirring every 15 minutes and rotating pans, until lightly browned and crisp, 45–50 minutes total. Let cool entirely on the baking sheets and store in airtight containers.