When it comes to snacking, few things can rival the delightful crunch and burst of flavor found in a well-made spiced snack mix. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or simply looking for a tasty treat to munch on, this spiced snack mix recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Packed with a variety of textures and flavors, it’s a versatile snack that can be customized to suit your taste. In this article, we’ll explore how to create your own spiced snack mix, along with tips for making it uniquely yours.
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups of mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, and walnuts)
- 2 cups of pretzels (mini pretzels or traditional shapes)
- 2 cups of popcorn (popped, preferably air-popped)
- 1 cup of cheese crackers (optional for a cheesy flavor)
Spices and Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup of dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (for a sweet touch)
- 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (for added crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your snack mix gets perfectly toasted and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, pretzels, popcorn, and cheese crackers (if using). This combination provides a delightful mix of crunch and flavor that forms the base of your snack mix.
Step 3: Create the Spice Mixture
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or melted butter) with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. This spice mixture is what will elevate your snack mix to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Pour the spice mixture over the base ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the flavorful spice blend.
Step 5: Bake the Snack Mix
Spread the coated snack mix evenly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 6: Cool and Add Optional Ingredients
Once the snack mix is golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. If you’re adding dried fruit, chocolate chips, or seeds, now is the time to mix them in. These additions will provide a delightful contrast to the spiced crunch.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Once cooled, transfer your spiced snack mix to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead snack for gatherings or a quick grab-and-go option during busy days.
Customization Tips
One of the best things about this spiced snack mix recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and spices to create a mix that suits your palate. For a sweeter version, consider adding cinnamon and sugar, or for a more savory kick, try adding some ranch seasoning or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
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