Description

Ever wanted a snack that’s as fun as a fireworks show and takes just minutes to make? This 4th of July Snack Mix is your answer! With chocolate-coated cereal, sweet powdered sugar, and red, white, and blue candies, it’s the perfect no-bake treat for Independence Day parties, picnics, or movie nights. It’s so easy, even kids can help shake it up.

Ingredients

Scale

A batch of 4th of July Snack Mix needs just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for about 8-10 servings:

Cereal Base:
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- Why it matters: Rice Chex is light and crispy, perfect for coating with chocolate and sugar.
- Substitutions: Use Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, or gluten-free cereal. Pretzels or popcorn work for a different crunch.
Coating:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- Why it matters: Milk chocolate adds a creamy coating, and powdered sugar gives a sweet, snowy finish.
- Substitutions: Use dark or white chocolate chips for a different flavor. Swap powdered sugar for a sugar-free version if available.
Candies:
- ¾ cup Peanut M&M’s in red, white, and blue
- ¾ cup Whoppers candy
- Why it matters: M&M’s add patriotic colors and nutty crunch, while Whoppers bring malted milk flavor.
- Substitutions: Use regular M&M’s, Skittles, or Reese’s Pieces for candies. Swap Whoppers for chocolate-covered raisins or malt balls.

Tip: Choose fresh, unopened cereal for maximum crunch. Check M&M’s for seasonal red, white, and blue colors to keep the patriotic theme.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Workspace

Line a large baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Place 4 cups Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Set both aside.
- Tip: Use a rimmed baking sheet to contain the mix while drying. A big bowl makes mixing easier.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Place 1 cup milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir.
Repeat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth (about 1-2 minutes total).
- Tip: Stir well to avoid overheating. If chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil for smoothness.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

Drizzle the melted chocolate over the Rice Chex in the mixing bowl using a large spoon.
Gently mix as you drizzle, ensuring the cereal is evenly coated with chocolate.
- Tip: Toss gently with a spatula to avoid crushing the cereal. Work quickly before the chocolate starts to set.

Step 4: Add Powdered Sugar

Place 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar in a 1-gallon zip-top bag.
Carefully scoop the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag with the powdered sugar.
Seal the bag and shake gently until the cereal is fully coated with powdered sugar.
Let the mix sit in the bag for 1-2 minutes to set the coating.
- Tip: Shake in small batches if the bag is too full. Use a clean bag to avoid chocolate smudges.

Step 5: Dry the Mix

Spread the powdered sugar-coated cereal onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
Let it dry for 1 hour at room temperature to set the chocolate and sugar.
- Tip: Place in a cool, dry spot to prevent melting. Stir halfway through if clumping occurs.

Step 6: Add Candies and Serve

Return the dried cereal mix to the large mixing bowl.
Gently mix in ¾ cup red, white, and blue Peanut M&M’s and ¾ cup Whoppers candy.
Serve in a big bowl or portion into treat bags.
- Tip: Mix candies gently to keep the powdered sugar coating intact. Serve with a scoop for easy sharing.