Description
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
- Preheat the Smoker – Set your smoker to 225°F. A combination of cherry and maple wood works wonderfully for a subtle, sweet smoke flavor.
- Mix the Base – Combine rice Chex, pretzels, Bugles, oyster crackers, and mixed nuts in a large mixing bowl.
- 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.
- Coat the Mix – Pour the hot caramel sauce over the snack mixture, stirring quickly to coat everything evenly.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
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.