Save to Pinterest A festive, sweet-and-savory snack mix featuring gold and black ingredients—perfect for ringing in the New Year with style and crunch.
This mix brings a festive touch to any party, combining crunchy textures and rich flavors that my guests can't get enough of.
Ingredients
- Crunchy Base: 3 cups black cocoa cereal (e.g., Oreo Os or similar), 2 cups mini pretzel twists, 1 cup caramel popcorn
- Gold & Black Accents: 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips, 1/2 cup chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional for adults), 1/2 cup gold candy-coated chocolates (e.g., gold M&Ms), 1/2 cup gold star sprinkles or edible glitter
- Sweet & Savory Coating: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons honey, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black cocoa cereal, pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn.
- Step 3:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey and sea salt until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the snack mix. Toss gently to coat.
- Step 5:
- Spread the coated mix in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fragrant and just beginning to crisp.
- Step 6:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Step 7:
- Once cooled, transfer the mix to a large bowl. Add chocolate chips, chocolate-covered espresso beans, gold candy-coated chocolates, and gold star sprinkles. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 8:
- Serve in bowls or fill festive bags for guests to take home.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this snack with family during New Year celebrations always brings warmth and joy to our gatherings.
Notes
For a nutty variation, add 1/2 cup roasted salted cashews or almonds. Make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pretzels and popcorn. Espresso beans add a sophisticated touch—omit for a kid-friendly version. Pair with sparkling wine or a festive mocktail for a perfect NYE treat.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, small saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 235, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 3 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This Gold and Black Midnight Snack Mix is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and festive flair to enjoy all winter long.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the crunchy base?
The base is made of black cocoa cereal, mini pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn, providing a mix of textures and flavors.
- → How is the sweet and savory coating prepared?
Butter is melted gently with honey and sea salt, then drizzled over the snack mix to blend sweetness with a touch of salt.
- → Can the espresso beans be omitted?
Yes, omitting chocolate-covered espresso beans makes the mix kid-friendly while maintaining its rich flavor profile.
- → How long should the mix be baked?
Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring halfway for even crisping.
- → Are there allergen considerations?
The mix contains dairy, gluten, and soy, and may contain nuts depending on added ingredients. Check labels carefully.
- → Can this mix be made gluten-free?
Yes, by selecting gluten-free pretzels and popcorn, the mix can accommodate gluten-free needs.