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Kima

Ranch Chex Mix

This easy Ranch Chex Mix combines crunchy Corn Chex, pretzels, mixed nuts, and corn chips with buttery ranch and Cajun seasoning. Slowly cooked in the Crockpot until crisp and flavorful, it makes an easy party snack, game-day mix, or make-ahead treat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Snack Mix
  • 9 cups Corn Chex cereal
  • 2 cups mini pretzel twists
  • 2 cups mixed nuts
  • 2 cups corn chips
Ranch Butter Seasoning
  • 12 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning mix 1 standard envelope
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • onion powder mentioned in the instructions, but no quantity was provided in the original ingredient list

Equipment

  • Slow cooker or crockpot
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large spoon or silicone spatula
  • Baking sheet or cookie sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Assemble the Snack Mix
  1. Add the Corn Chex cereal, mini pretzel twists, mixed nuts, and corn chips to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Ranch Butter
  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, dry ranch seasoning, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Stir until the seasonings are evenly incorporated into the melted butter.
  3. Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the cereal mixture in the slow cooker.
  4. Gently stir until the cereal, pretzels, nuts, and corn chips are evenly coated.
Slow Cook
  1. Place the lid on the slow cooker, leaving it slightly cracked so moisture can escape.
  2. Cook for 2 1/2 hours, stirring gently every 20-30 minutes so the mixture cooks evenly and does not scorch.
Cool and Serve
  1. When the cooking time is complete, spread the Chex mix in an even layer on a baking sheet or piece of parchment paper.
  2. Allow the mix to cool before serving so it can become crisp.

Notes

  • Yield: The original recipe does not provide a serving yield, so the servings field has been left blank.
  • Onion powder: The instructions call for onion powder, but no amount is provided in the ingredient list. It has been included without a quantity rather than estimated.
  • Keep the lid cracked: Leaving the slow cooker lid slightly open allows steam to escape and helps prevent the snack mix from becoming soggy.
  • Stir regularly: Gently stir every 20-30 minutes so the seasoning stays evenly distributed and the pieces around the edges do not overcook.
  • Cooling: Spread the finished mix into a single layer and let it cool completely for the crispiest texture.
  • Cajun seasoning: Different brands vary in salt and heat, so adjust according to your preference.
  • Storage: Once completely cooled, store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature to help preserve its crunch.