Apple Pie Chex Mix For Cozy Halloween Movie Nights I’m Addicted To

This snack is perfect for pairing with your favorite spooky flicks, offering a crunchy, sweet, and lightly spiced bite every time. Plus, it’s easy to make and fills your home with the scent of apple and cinnamon that instantly says fall.

Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies

• Quick win: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this mix is perfect for last-minute snack cravings.
• Flavor twist: The comforting apple pie spices add a nostalgic touch you won’t find in typical Chex mixes.
• Pantry-friendly: Uses mostly staple ingredients you probably have on hand already.
• Kid-friendly: Sweet and mild enough for little ones to enjoy alongside adults.
• Seasonal appeal: Brings cozy fall vibes to any gathering or movie night, making it feel extra special.

What Type of Apples Should I Use?

For this recipe, crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith work best to balance out the sweetness and add a nice texture. Fresh apples should be peeled, cored, and finely diced to ensure they blend well into the mix without making it soggy.

Avoid frozen apples as they tend to release too much moisture and could ruin the crunch. If you’re set on using dried apples, pick unsweetened and unsulfured pieces for the best flavor, and chop them into smaller bits so they incorporate evenly. Always make sure fresh or dried fruit is well-drained and patted dry before combining with the other ingredients to keep the mix crisp.

Options for Ingredient Alternatives

• Butter can be swapped with coconut oil for a dairy-free version; just chill the mixture for 10-15 minutes to firmness before baking.
• White chocolate chips are perfect here, but milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips work well for a richer bite.
• Use almond milk or oat milk if you prefer a non-dairy option for any moisture adjustments.
• Vanilla extract can be replaced with maple extract for a cozy, woodsy undertone.
• Fresh diced apple can be swapped with dried apples, or even dried cranberries for a tart contrast.

The Biggest Challenges While Baking

• Folding delicate pieces last: Add white chocolate chips or dried apples at the final step to prevent breakage or melting.
• Butter temperature: Use softened not melted butter or coconut oil to keep the texture light and crumbly.
• Avoid overmixing: Stir just until combined to maintain a tender crunch without turning the mix dense.
• Fixing dry dough: If the mix feels dry or crumbly, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it gently holds together.
• Chilling the mix for at least 30 minutes before baking helps develop flavor and prevents spreading too fast.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store Apple Pie Chex Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days before it starts to lose its crunch. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to one week it may firm up but will taste just as good. To freeze, spread the mix in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and toss gently to refresh the texture.

You can also prepare the dry components ahead of time and store in a zip bag, then add wet ingredients just before baking for ultimate convenience.

Estimated Nutrition

This batch makes about 8 servings. The rough nutrition for the entire mix totals approximately:

• 1500 calories
• 75 grams fat
• 200 grams carbohydrates
• 15 grams protein

Per serving (roughly 1 cup):

• 190–200 calories
• 9 grams fat
• 25 grams carbohydrates
• 2 grams protein

Nutrition will vary slightly depending on ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Rice Chex cereal (120 g)
• 1 cup mini pretzels (60 g)
• 1 cup bite-sized cinnamon apple chips or finely diced dried apples (100 g)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (85 g)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56 g)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (50 g)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine Rice Chex cereal, mini pretzels, and dried apple pieces, gently tossing to mix.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the warm butter and spice mixture over the dry ingredients and gently fold together, making sure everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting and prevent burning.
6. Remove the tray from the oven and immediately fold in the white chocolate chips while the mix is still warm but not hot, so they soften but don’t melt completely.
7. Allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for storage or serving.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice after baking for a stronger fall flavor.
• For a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger with the spices.
• Serve this mix in themed bowls or mini pumpkins for a perfect Halloween touch.
• Keep it fresh: Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to revive crunch if stored in the fridge.
• Try swapping the white chocolate for caramel bits or butterscotch chips for another twist.
• Underbake slightly if you like a chewier texture with gooey pockets of sweetness.

FAQs

What if I don’t have Rice Chex?
You can substitute with Corn Chex or Wheat Chex, but the texture and flavor will slightly differ. Corn Chex adds a sweeter note, whereas Wheat Chex brings nuttiness.

Can I make this mix gluten-free?
Yes! Make sure to use gluten-free cereals, pretzels, and check all other ingredients for gluten-free labeling.

How long does this snack stay fresh?
It’s best enjoyed within 3 days at room temperature, though refrigeration extends freshness up to a week.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just bake in batches or use two baking sheets rotated halfway through.

Save This for Later (Pinterest)

Love cozy snacks that bring fall flavors to life? Be sure to save this recipe on Pinterest to keep Apple Pie Chex Mix For Cozy Halloween Movie Nights handy whenever you want an easy, addictive treat to enjoy with your favorite scary movie!