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Lighter Sweet & Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

Lighter Sweet & Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix - featured image
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A lighter, healthier twist on classic Chex Mix with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and ranch flavors. This addictive snack is crunchy, flavorful, and won’t leave you feeling weighed down.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
  • 2 cups mini pretzels (twist or square)
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds and cashews, or peanuts)
  • 1 cup cheese crackers (like Goldfish)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce or 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, mini pretzels, mixed nuts, and cheese crackers. Gently toss with your hands to distribute evenly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and egg whites until well combined. Add the hot sauce, brown sugar, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using). Whisk until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Pour half the coating over the dry mix and gently fold with a rubber spatula. Add the remaining coating and fold until every piece is lightly coated.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, leaving space around the edges.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Rotate the pans between racks if using both oven shelves.
  7. Let the mix cool completely on the baking sheets for at least 30 minutes. It will continue to crisp up as it cools.
  8. Once completely cool, gently break apart any large clumps.

Notes

Don’t skip the egg whites—they create a light, crispy coating. Use Frank’s RedHot for the best flavor. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even baking. Let cool completely before storing to maintain crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extra crunch, let the mix sit out uncovered overnight after cooling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chex Mix, buffalo ranch, sweet and spicy, lighter snack, game day snack, party mix, homemade snack

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/lighter-sweet-and-spicy-buffalo-ranch-chex-mix/