White Trash Snack Mix (Print Version)

Sweet-and-salty mix of cereals, pretzels, peanuts, cheese crackers and candy coated in creamy white chocolate.

# Recipe Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 3 cups crispy rice cereal squares (such as Rice Chex)
02 - 3 cups corn cereal squares (such as Corn Chex)
03 - 2 cups small pretzel twists
04 - 2 cups salted peanuts
05 - 2 cups bite-sized cheese crackers (such as Goldfish or Cheez-It)

→ Sweets

06 - 2 cups mini chocolate-coated candies (such as M&M's)
07 - 2 cups mini marshmallows

→ Coating

08 - 24 oz white chocolate chips or white candy coating
09 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)

# Directions:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add the rice cereal squares, corn cereal squares, small pretzel twists, salted peanuts, cheese crackers, mini marshmallows, and chocolate-coated candies. Toss gently to mix evenly.
03 - Place white chocolate chips (and coconut oil or vegetable shortening, if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
04 - Pour the melted white chocolate over the dry snack mixture. Using a spatula, quickly and gently fold until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading into a single even layer.
06 - Let the mixture cool at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes, or until the coating has fully set.
07 - Break the set snack mix into clusters and transfer to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You can toss in your favorite odds and ends, and somehow it always works out deliciously.
  • It’s the snack that vanishes at parties faster than you can explain what’s in it—people always want the recipe.
02 -
  • If your chocolate overheats even a little, it seizes and won’t coat the mix well—short bursts in the microwave are safest.
  • I once skipped the parchment and spent way too long picking bits off the baking sheet—never again!
03 -
  • Let the chocolate set fully before breaking up—rushing leads to sticky fingers and clumps.
  • Keeping the ratio of salty to sweet just right is the real secret—don’t skimp on the peanuts or the cheese crackers.

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