why make this recipe
This Salty Sweet Snack Mix is quick to make and fun to eat. It mixes salty and sweet tastes in one bowl and works for parties, movie nights, or lunch boxes.
introduction
This snack is easy and uses simple pantry items you likely have at home. If you want a different flavor idea, try a related dark chocolate cherry trail mix recipe for another sweet and salty option.
how to make Salty Sweet Snack Mix
Follow the simple steps below to make the mix. Work with one bowl and a baking sheet so cleanup is easy.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups of popcorn
- 2 cups of pretzels
- 1 cup of chocolate candies
- 1 cup of nuts (e.g., peanuts, almonds)
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine popcorn, pretzels, chocolate candies, and nuts.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour the melted mixture over the snack mix and stir to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden.
- Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy!

how to serve Salty Sweet Snack Mix
Serve the mix in a large bowl for sharing or portion it into small bags for snacks on the go. It works well with coffee or a cold drink.
how to store Salty Sweet Snack Mix
Let the mix cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to one week.
tips to make Salty Sweet Snack Mix
Use light stirring so the candies do not melt too much while baking. For a lighter option, reduce the brown sugar and try recipes that focus on natural sweeteners like the guide to healthy sweet snacks. Toast the nuts first for more flavor.
variation (if any)
- Swap chocolate candies for M&Ms, raisins, or dried cranberries.
- Use flavored pretzels or add cereal for extra crunch.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika in the butter mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Yes. You can leave out nuts or replace them with seeds if you have allergies.
Q: Will the chocolate candies melt in the oven?
A: Some candies may soften. Stir gently and watch the time to avoid excess melting.
Q: Can I make this without baking?
A: Yes. Mix all ingredients and skip baking for a raw version. The coating may be less crisp but still tasty.
Q: How long does it stay crunchy?
A: It stays crunchy for several days if stored in an airtight container and kept dry.

Salty Sweet Snack Mix
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups popcorn
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup chocolate candies Can use M&Ms or similar
- 1 cup nuts (e.g., peanuts, almonds) Can be substituted with seeds if there are allergies
Coating Ingredients
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Can reduce for a lighter option
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine popcorn, pretzels, chocolate candies, and nuts.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour the melted mixture over the snack mix and stir to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden.
- Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy!
