Crunchy sweet-and-savory pine cone-inspired snack mix with pretzels, nuts, and a cinnamon honey coating.
# Ingredients:
→ Base
01 - 3 cups mini pretzel twists
02 - 2 cups rice cereal squares (e.g., Chex)
03 - 1 cup roasted almonds
04 - 1 cup honey-roasted peanuts
→ Coating
05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
06 - 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
07 - 1/4 cup honey
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Garnish
10 - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
11 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
# Instructions:
01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzel twists, rice cereal squares, roasted almonds, and honey-roasted peanuts.
03 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves and mixture slightly thickens, about 2 minutes.
04 - Pour the warm coating evenly over the mixed ingredients. Gently toss to coat thoroughly.
05 - Spread the coated mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
06 - Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the slightly cooled mixture so they adhere without melting completely.
07 - Once fully cooled, dust the mix with powdered sugar to create a snowy appearance.
08 - Transfer to a large serving bowl or portion into small cups for individual servings.
