Sweet and Spicy Smoked Snack Mix

If you’re searching for the perfect party snack, tailgate treat, or road trip munchie, this Sweet and Spicy Smoked Snack Mix is a game-changer. Made with crunchy cereals, pretzels, nuts, and crackers, then coated in a homemade sweet and spicy caramel sauce with a hint of smoke, this recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and addictive enough that you’ll want to make a double batch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice Chex cereal
• 2 cups pretzel sticks
• 1 cup Bugles
• 1 cup oyster crackers
• 1 cup mixed nuts

For the Sweet and Spicy Caramel

• ½ cup salted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup Cholula Original Hot Sauce
• ¼ cup light corn syrup
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

1. Preheat the Smoker – Set your smoker to 225°F. A combination of cherry and maple wood works wonderfully for a subtle, sweet smoke flavor.
2. Mix the Base – Combine rice Chex, pretzels, Bugles, oyster crackers, and mixed nuts in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Caramel Sauce – In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, Cholula, and salt. Boil for 3 minutes while whisking. Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam as it activates.
4. Coat the Mix – Pour the hot caramel sauce over the snack mixture, stirring quickly to coat everything evenly.
5. Smoke the Mix – Spread the coated snack mix onto a foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray. Place in the smoker and cook for 1 hour, stirring halfway through if needed.
6. Cool and Serve – Remove from the smoker and allow the mix to cool before breaking it into pieces. Sneaking a few bites while warm is totally acceptable.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve in bowls at gatherings so guests can grab handfuls easily.
• Pack into small resealable bags for road trips, hiking, or kids’ lunchbox treats.
• Create party favors by portioning into mason jars tied with ribbon.
• Pair with a cold drink at BBQs or tailgates for the perfect game-day snack.

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freeze in airtight bags for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Avoid humidity to prevent stickiness—store in a cool, dry place.

Variations

1. Extra Spicy Kick – Add more hot sauce or sprinkle in cayenne pepper before smoking. This is perfect for heat-lovers who like a fiery snack.
2. Sweet and Salty Mix – Toss in mini chocolate candies, caramel bits, or peanut butter chips after cooling for a sweet counterbalance to the spice.
3. Cheesy Twist – Mix in Cheez-Its, Parmesan crisps, or white cheddar popcorn to create a smoky cheese blend.
4. Nut-Free Version – Omit the nuts and replace with sunflower seeds or additional pretzels for an allergy-friendly snack.
5. Savory Balance – Add garlic bagel chips, sesame sticks, or rye chips to cut through the sweetness.
6. Holiday Party Mix – Stir in dried cranberries or yogurt-covered raisins after cooling for festive flair.
7. BBQ Flavor Boost – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or drizzle with BBQ sauce into the caramel mixture for a backyard BBQ-style mix.
8. Kid-Friendly Mild Version – Cut the hot sauce in half for a snack mix that’s flavorful but less spicy.
9. Gluten-Free Mix – Use gluten-free Chex, pretzels, and crackers for an allergy-safe alternative without sacrificing flavor.
10. Maple Glaze Twist – Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deeper, rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with smoke.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without a smoker?
Yes, bake in the oven at 250°F for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even coating.

2. What’s the best wood for smoking this recipe?
Fruit woods like cherry, apple, or maple give the perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors.

3. Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes, prepare up to 5 days in advance and store in an airtight container.

4. How spicy is the finished mix?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust spice by adding or reducing hot sauce.

5. Can I use different cereals?
Yes, corn Chex, wheat Chex, or even Cheerios can be swapped in.

6. What nuts work best?
Cashews, almonds, and peanuts are great options, but any mixed nuts will work.

7. Can I add candy to this snack mix?
Yes, wait until it cools completely, then mix in chocolate candies, caramel bits, or peanut butter chips.

8. Will this get soggy in storage?
Not if stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Avoid humidity.

9. Can I make a large batch for gifting?
Absolutely, just double or triple the recipe and divide into jars or gift bags.

10. What if I don’t like hot sauce?
You can substitute with BBQ sauce, sriracha, or even just leave it out for a sweet-only caramel version.

This Sweet and Spicy Smoked Snack Mix is a recipe that will quickly become a go-to for parties, road trips, and casual snacking. With its balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s a step above the average snack mix. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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