Name: Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups corn Chex cereal; 2 cups rice Chex cereal; 2 cups mini pretzels; ½ cup unsalted shelled peanuts; ½ cup bagel chips; ½ cup sesame sticks; ½ cup white sesame seeds; 6 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1-2 tablespoons gochugaru pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon kosher salt

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If you’re looking for a snack that’s bursting with flavor, crunchy texture, and just the right balance of sweet and spicy, this Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix is exactly what you need. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just an everyday treat, this mix combines a variety of crunchy bites coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and a kick of gochugaru pepper flakes. It’s an irresistible snack that’s easy to make and sure to become your new favorite munchie. Whether you’re a seasoned snacker or just craving something different, this recipe brings together an exciting medley of ingredients that work harmoniously to satisfy your taste buds and keep you reaching for more.

Why It Works Every Time

This Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix works every time because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of corn and rice Chex cereals provides a light, crispy base that absorbs the sticky sauce beautifully without getting soggy. Mini pretzels and bagel chips add a salty crunch, while sesame sticks and white sesame seeds give it a nutty, aromatic depth. The honey and soy sauce create a sweet-savory glaze, and the addition of gochugaru pepper flakes offers a gentle heat that awakens your palate without overpowering the other flavors. The garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and kosher salt round out the seasoning, making this snack mix addictive and crave-worthy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized easily to your liking.

Shopping List

2 cups (74 g) corn Chex cereal
2 cups (70 g) rice Chex cereal
2 cups (100 g) mini pretzels
½ cup (90 g) unsalted shelled peanuts
½ cup (50 g) bagel chips
½ cup (62 g) sesame sticks
½ cup (36 g) white sesame seeds
6 tablespoons (84 g) vegetable oil
3 tablespoons (63 g) honey
2 tablespoons (28 g) sesame oil
2 tablespoons (36 g) soy sauce
1-2 tablespoons gochugaru pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Setup & Equipment

Large mixing bowl: To combine all the dry ingredients.
Small saucepan: For heating and mixing the glaze ingredients.
Baking sheet: For spreading out the snack mix to cool and crisp up.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the snack mix with the glaze.

The Method for Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl, combine the corn Chex cereal, rice Chex cereal, mini pretzels, unsalted shelled peanuts, bagel chips, sesame sticks, and white sesame seeds. Give everything a gentle toss to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Make the Sweet & Spicy Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the vegetable oil, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, gochugaru pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and kosher salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.

Step 4: Coat the Snack Mix

Pour the warm glaze over the dry mix in the bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to toss everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece is lightly coated with the sweet and spicy sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Snack Mix

Transfer the coated snack mix evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out in a single layer to allow even baking. Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to make sure it crisps up evenly without burning.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once baked, remove the snack mix from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. The mix will continue to crisp as it cools. After cooling, store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks. This is the perfect crunchy snack mix to have on hand.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

Spring: Add dried cranberries or apricots for a burst of fruity sweetness that complements the spice.
Summer: Serve the mix alongside cool dips or incorporate it as a crunchy topping for picnic salads.
Fall: Mix in roasted pumpkin seeds or swap the honey for maple syrup for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Pair this snack mix with hot tea or warm mulled cider for cozy, comforting snacking.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Don’t skip stirring during baking: This prevents the mix from burning and ensures even crispness.
Watch your oven temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can scorch the honey glaze quickly.
Adjust spice levels carefully: Gochugaru pepper flakes can vary in heat; start with less if you’re sensitive.
Use fresh sesame seeds and sticks: Old or stale sesame products can taste rancid and affect flavor.
Cool completely before storing: Warm mix stored in a sealed container will become soggy.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store your Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. It keeps its crunch best when stored away from moisture and heat. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the mix in a sealed bag or container for up to three months. To enjoy after freezing, simply thaw at room temperature. If you want to refresh the crispiness, spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This snack mix is best enjoyed fresh but can be revived easily with a little heat.

Questions People Ask

Can I use other nuts in this snack mix?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses unsalted shelled peanuts, you can substitute almonds, cashews, or pecans depending on your preference. Just keep the quantity the same and be mindful of any allergies.

Is there a substitute for gochugaru pepper flakes?

Yes, if you can’t find gochugaru, you can use crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a milder heat. Adjust the amount to your taste, as these alternatives may vary in spiciness.

Can I make this snack mix gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free pretzels and bagel chips, or omit these ingredients entirely and increase the quantities of other components like Chex cereals and nuts.

How long does it take to prepare this snack mix?

The preparation is quite quick—about 10 minutes to mix and make the glaze, plus 45 minutes of baking time. Cooling takes an additional 15-20 minutes, so plan for around an hour total.

What to Make After This

Try the Honey Roasted Acorn Squash Chili Lime Pepitas for another sweet and spicy snack alternative.
For a hearty dinner idea, the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs With Sesame Rice pairs beautifully with the flavors of this snack mix.
If you love sesame flavors, don’t miss the Sesame Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a light and fresh meal.

The Takeaway

The Sweet & Spicy Sesame Snack Mix is a wonderfully addictive treat that combines a variety of textures and bold flavors into one irresistible package. Its ease of preparation and customizable ingredients make it a perfect snack for any occasion, from casual munching to festive gatherings. The harmonious blend of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, nutty sesame, and a touch of heat creates a complex yet balanced flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. With simple pantry staples and just a bit of time, you can whip up a batch that satisfies salty, sweet, and spicy cravings all at once. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon understand why it works every time. Enjoy snacking!

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