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Looking for a festive snack that’s perfect for holiday parties and gift-giving? Between shopping for presents, decorating the house, and attending countless gatherings, the holiday season can get pretty busy. That’s why I love having an easy recipe like this Christmas coconut Chex mix in my back pocket. It’s a fun twist on the classic cereal snack that brings together sweet coconut flavor with familiar Chex crunch, and you can whip up a big batch in no time. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing while it bakes!
Ingredient Substitutions
Rice cereal squares and honey-flavored cereal squares can be substituted with other crispy cereals like corn flakes, puffed rice, or even gluten-free alternatives such as quinoa puffs. This swap maintains the crunchy texture while accommodating various dietary needs. Shredded coconut with sugar can be replaced by unsweetened shredded coconut and a small amount of additional sugar to taste, offering more control over sweetness. For a healthier option, consider using coconut flakes. Almond slices can be swapped with other nuts like chopped pecans, walnuts, or cashews, or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies. This substitution maintains the crunchy texture and provides similar nutritional benefits. Light corn syrup can be replaced with honey, maple syrup, or brown rice syrup for a less processed alternative. Adjust quantities slightly, as these substitutes may be sweeter than corn syrup.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 5500-6000
- Protein: 40-50 g
- Fat: 200-220 g
- Carbohydrates: 830-850 g
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rice cereal squares
- 12 ounces honey-flavored cereal squares
- 2 cups shredded coconut with sugar
- 2 cups almond slices
- 1 1/2 cups butter (equivalent to 3 sticks)
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 2 cups light corn syrup
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a giant bowl (or two large bowls if needed), combine the rice chex, golden grahams, shredded coconut, and sliced almonds.
Ensure these dry ingredients are well-mixed and evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup Mixture
In a large pot, melt together the butter, sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat.
Stir continuously to help the ingredients integrate smoothly as they melt.
Step 3: Cook the Syrup
Once everything has melted together, bring the mixture to a boil.
As it boils, continue to stir constantly.
Allow it to boil and cook for an additional 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
This will ensure the liquid binds well to the cereal mixture.
Step 4: Combine Syrup with Dry Ingredients
Carefully pour the hot syrup mixture over your prepared cereal mixture in the bowl.
Using a large spoon or spatula, stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the syrup.
Step 5: Set and Cool the Mixture
Spread the coated mixture onto waxed paper, spreading it out to allow it to cool uniformly.
Allow the mixture to set and cool until it has firmed up and is no longer sticky to the touch.
Once cooled, break into pieces if desired and enjoy!
