Save A festive, sweet-and-savory snack mix featuring gold and black ingredients—perfect for ringing in the New Year with style and crunch.
This snack mix quickly became my go-to party treat because of its unique flavors and eye-catching colors.
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 to 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 This recipe is always a hit when my family gathers, with everyone reaching for seconds throughout the evening.
Variations
For a nutty variation, add 1/2 cup roasted salted cashews or almonds.
Pairings
Pair this snack with sparkling wine or a festive mocktail for a perfect New Year's Eve treat.
Storage Tips
Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain crunchiness.
Save This midnight snack mix is an effortless crowd-pleaser that adds sparkle to any celebration.
Cooking Questions
- → What ingredients give this mix its gold and black colors?
The mix uses black cocoa cereal and chocolate-covered espresso beans for deep tones, while gold candy-coated chocolates and edible glitter provide bright gold accents.
- → Can I make this snack mix gluten-free?
Yes, by selecting gluten-free pretzels and popcorn, you can easily adapt the mix to be gluten-free.
- → How do the coating ingredients enhance the flavors?
The honey and unsalted butter blend adds a sweet and rich glaze, while sea salt balances the sweetness lending a savory contrast.
- → What is the best way to store this mix after preparation?
Store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain the crunch and freshness for several days.
- → Can I substitute nuts in this snack mix?
Yes, roasted salted cashews or almonds can be added for a nutty variation and extra crunch.