Looking for a sweet and crunchy snack that’s ridiculously easy to make? This Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix is it! Made with pantry staples and zero fuss, this cozy little treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, holiday gifts, or just satisfying your snack cravings.
This recipe bakes low and slow to achieve the ultimate crispy texture, all while your kitchen fills with the nostalgic aroma of cinnamon and sugar. No candy thermometer, no stovetop boiling, just simple goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Chex Mix
This isn’t your average party mix. Think of it as the cinnamon roll of snack mixes — warm, sweet, and packed with cozy flavor. It’s ready with just a few ingredients and minimal prep. The secret? A buttery brown sugar syrup and a generous shower of cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix
Rice Chex Cereal: This forms the crispy, light base. I recommend Rice Chex for its subtle flavor, but Corn Chex or even Crispix can work in a pinch.
Butter: Real butter is best here! It helps the sugar mixture coat the cereal and adds rich flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds that deep caramel note that balances beautifully with the cinnamon.
Granulated Sugar: Helps give the mix its signature crunch once baked.
Ground Cinnamon: Don’t skimp on this — it’s the star of the show! Warm and aromatic, it gives the mix its signature snickerdoodle-like flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix
Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 275°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Mix the Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set this aside — you’ll sprinkle it on later for the perfect finish.
Make the Syrup: In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and microwave for another 20–30 seconds. Whisk until smooth and slightly syrupy.
Coat the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm butter mixture over the cereal and stir gently with a spatula to coat every piece.
Sprinkle & Bake: Spread the coated cereal evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix generously over the top. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes so nothing burns and every piece crisps up just right.
Cool Completely: Let the mix cool on the pan until fully crisp. Then it’s ready to serve — or store in an airtight container for snacking all week long.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chex Mix
- Use parchment paper: This prevents the sugar coating from sticking to the pan and helps it bake evenly.
- Stir gently: Rice Chex can break easily, so be gentle when mixing.
- Cool fully: The mix crisps up as it cools — don’t skip this step or it’ll feel soft.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll want plenty of room to stir the cereal without crushing it.
- Microwave-Safe Measuring Cup: Great for melting the butter and mixing the syrup.
- Baking Sheet: A large one is best so you can spread the cereal out in a thin, even layer.
- Spatula: For gentle, thorough stirring.
Make It Your Own
- Add-ins: Mini pretzels, pecans, or even mini marshmallows make fun additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.
- Holiday twist: Mix in red and green sprinkles for a festive holiday snack mix!
This Cinnamon Sugar Chex Mix is simple comfort food at its finest — sweet, snackable, and totally addictive. Whether you’re whipping it up for a party or packing it in lunchboxes, one thing’s for sure: everyone’s going to ask for the recipe. Enjoy!