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A sweet and salty holiday snack that’s no-bake, crowd-pleasing, and brimming with festive cheer—Buddy The Elf Chex Mix is your new go-to Christmas recipe.
Full Recipe Introduction
Imagine a crunchy, chocolate-drizzled Chex Mix studded with peppermint and M&M’s, inspired by Buddy the Elf’s sugar-loving spirit. This homemade snack combines the satisfying snap of rice and corn Chex with mini marshmallows, candy canes, and a touch of vanilla—turning an easy snack into a movie inspired recipe. I first whipped this up during last year’s tree-trimming party, and even my picky cousin who claims he “hates sweets” went back for seconds. You know what? It feels downright magical to share something that’s both a sweet and salty mix and a festive treat for everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• No oven needed—just stir, spread, and chill
• Ready in under 30 minutes (seriously!)
• Perfect for holiday gift boxes or cookie exchanges
• A fun movie inspired recipe that kids adore
• Balances sweet and salty mix in every bite
• Customizable with your favorite candies or nuts
• Gluten-free option if you choose certified Chex
• Makes about 12 cups—great for potlucks and parties
Ingredients
• 4 cups Rice Chex (or gluten-free rice cereal)
• 4 cups Corn Chex (or your favorite square cereal)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (seasonal white or pastel)
• 1 cup mini M&M’s (holiday colors)
• ½ cup crushed candy canes (about 4 canes)
• 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for richness)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
(For nut lovers: swap ½ cup of cereal for honey-roasted peanuts.)
Directions
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour Rice Chex and Corn Chex into a big bowl—mix them like you’re mixing up holiday joy.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. (Tip: Don’t walk away—chocolate seizes fast!)
3. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cereal mixture. Gently toss with a spatula so every Chex gets a sweet hug.
4. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes evenly on top. Give it one more gentle fold—just enough to coat.
5. Let the mix sit for 5 minutes so the chocolate firms up a bit, then scatter M&M’s over the top (this keeps colors bright).
6. Slide the baking sheet into the fridge and chill for at least 15 minutes. You’re looking for that satisfying snap when you break a piece apart.
7. Break into clusters, pile into festive bowls, and watch everyone’s eyes light up.
Servings & Timing
Yield: Makes about 12 cups (serves 8–10 as a snack)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
• Peppermint Bark Twist: Swap semi-sweet chips for white chocolate and add extra crushed canes.
• Nutty Buddy: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
• Spicy Sweet: Dash in a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the melted chocolate.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use certified gluten-free cereals and enjoy worry-free.
• Tropical Elf: Add dried pineapple bits and coconut flakes for a sunny twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store Buddy The Elf Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer keeping, pop it into the freezer—sealed in a zip-top bag—for up to one month. No reheating needed; just let frozen clusters sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving. Make-ahead tip: You can prep the mix up to one day in advance and chill overnight for busy holiday mornings.
Notes
• Testing Tip: If your kitchen is humid, store the mix in the fridge so marshmallows don’t soften.
• Texture Hack: Press the mix gently on the sheet before chilling to form chunkier clusters.
• Flavor Boost: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top just before serving amps up that sweet and salty magic.
• Candy Sub: Swap M&M’s for Reese’s Pieces or mini peanut butter cups (chop them first).
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cereals instead of Chex?
A: Absolutely—Rice Krispies or Shredded Wheat squares also work, though they may absorb chocolate differently.
Q: My chocolate seized—what now?
A: Stir in a little warm coconut oil or vegetable oil to smooth it out, then keep stirring off heat.
Q: How do I keep marshmallows from melting?
A: Add them after the chocolate drizzle cools for a minute—warm but not piping hot.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Definitely! The bright candies are a hit, and little hands can help toss the mix.
Q: Can I omit candy canes?
A: Yes, or replace with toffee bits, crushed ginger snaps, or even mini pretzels for extra crunch.
Q: How do I make this nut-free?
A: Simply skip peanuts or tree nuts and watch for cross-contamination on packaging if allergies are a concern.
Q: What’s the best way to gift this mix?
A: Fill clear cellophane bags, tie with ribbon, and include a handwritten tag with ingredients.
Conclusion
Buddy The Elf Chex Mix turns a simple no-bake snack into a movie inspired recipe that feels like a festive treat every single time. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have an easy snack that’s sure to impress at holiday parties or cozy nights in. Give it a whirl, then drop me a note below—what’s your favorite twist on this Christmas recipe?
Buddy The Elf Chex Mix
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex
- 4 cups Corn Chex
- 1 cup Mini marshmallows seasonal white or pastel
- 1 cup Mini M&M’s holiday colors
- 1/2 cup Crushed candy canes about 4 canes
- 6 oz Semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate for richness
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- Pinch Sea salt
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pour Rice Chex and Corn Chex into a big bowl and mix.
- Combine chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts until smooth.
- Pour melted chocolate over the cereal mixture and gently toss with a spatula.
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes evenly, then gently fold.
- Let the mix sit for 5 minutes, then scatter M&M’s over the top. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
- Break into clusters, pile into festive bowls, and serve.
