Caramel Chex Mix

This caramel Chex mix recipe elevates the original to a whole new level of caramel goodness! It’s just as easy to make as a classic Chex mix recipe, but is sweetened with an easy caramel coating, and every bite has peanuts and M&Ms.You don’t need a ton of ingredients for this Chex snack mix, and you might already have some of the ingredients in your pantry.

An easy caramel sauce with brown sugar and light corn syrup that's fool-proof!
What I love best is that you can switch up this recipe with all kinds of mix-ins – it’s super versatile. You can make it ahead, too! It keeps well at room temperature for several days. So, if you have a party or game day get-together planned, make a day in advance to save some time. I used a large soup pot to prepare this mixture. I found putting the Chex mix mixture in the refrigerator for an hour to harden worked well.
Optional add ins

• Use any flavor of M&Ms – there are tons of choices!
• Swap the M&Ms for Reese’s pieces.
• Any nuts will work – almonds, walnuts, and pecans are all good ones to try.
• Add some chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or other baking chips you like.
• Pretzels are always great, or mix in some raisins!
• Add spices – pumpkin spice Chex mix is always a hit. Once the snack mix is cool, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days at room temperature.

Ingredients:

• 12-ounce box Chex Cereal (corn or rice)
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup unsalted or salted butter
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup peanuts
• 1 cup M&Ms

Directions:

• Prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Set aside.
• Place Chex cereal in a large bowl. Set aside.
• Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add corn syrup, brown sugar, and salt, and stir/whisk until well combined. Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it comes to a boil. Once it comes to a full boil, boil for 1 minute.
• Remove from heat and add baking soda while whisking.
• Stir the cereal in until it is completely coated with the caramel mixture. 
• Stir in peanuts and any other add-ins. 
• Spread caramel-covered cereal out between the two lined baking sheets. Sprinkle M&Ms over top. With a large sheet of wax paper, press down on the Chex ixture so the cereal and add-ins stick together. Allow to cool.
• Break into small chunks and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I found storing the mixture in the refrigerator worked well.