Finding allergy-friendly snacks during the holiday season can feel like navigating a minefield, especially when so many traditional treats contain nuts. After years of bringing the same safe-but-boring options to holiday gatherings, I knew there had to be a better way to join in the festive snacking fun.
That’s where this nut-free Christmas Chex mix comes in – it’s just as crunchy and satisfying as the classic version, easy to make in big batches, and completely safe for folks with nut allergies. Plus, it’s perfect for holiday parties, afternoon snacking, or packaging up as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
For a nut-free alternative to white chocolate almond bark, use regular white chocolate chips or candy melts. These options maintain the sweet coating while avoiding potential allergens. Adjust melting time as needed, as these alternatives may melt faster than almond bark.
Bugles snacks can be replaced with corn chips or vegetable chips for a different crunch and flavor profile. These substitutions offer similar textures and saltiness while providing variety to the mix. Use an equal amount of the chosen alternative.
To accommodate gluten-free diets, substitute the pretzel sticks with gluten-free pretzels or rice crackers. These alternatives provide a similar crunchy texture and salty flavor. Break larger crackers into smaller pieces to match the size of pretzel sticks if necessary. Adjust quantities to maintain the desired balance of ingredients in the mix.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2300-2500
- Protein: 25-30 g
- Fat: 90-100 g
- Carbohydrates: 350-375 g
Ingredients
For the mix:
- 2 cups chocolate chex cereal
- 2 cups sugar toast squares
- 1 cup pretzel sticks (such as Snyder’s of Hanover Mini Pretzels)
- 1 bag popcorn, popped
- 2 cups bugles snacks
For the topping:
- 4 pieces white chocolate almond bark (such as Candiquik)
- red and green sprinkles
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn and spreading it out evenly on a cookie sheet or parchment paper.
This will allow the toppings to be distributed more uniformly later.
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark or Candy Melts
Melt the Almond Bark or Candy Melts following the instructions provided on the package.
This will typically involve using a microwave or a double boiler to gently melt the candy until it’s smooth and pourable.
Step 3: Drizzle and Decorate the Popcorn
Lightly pour the melted Almond Bark over the popcorn using a spoon.
It’s okay if the popcorn isn’t completely covered—a little goes a long way.
While the Almond Bark is still melted and hasn’t set, stir the popcorn gently to ensure some coverage.
Sprinkle your choice of decorations over the popcorn; red and green sprinkles work wonderfully, but feel free to use any sprinkles you have.
Step 4: Mix Additional Ingredients
While the decorated popcorn cools and sets, prepare the rest of your mix by combining any additional ingredients of your choice into a large bowl.
Make sure to mix thoroughly for even distribution.
Step 5: Combine and Store
Once the popcorn is fully set and the decorations have adhered properly, add it to the mix in your large bowl.
Stir everything together so each handful is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Store the completed popcorn mix in a plastic container, Ziploc bag, or metal tin to keep it fresh for up to 2 weeks.
