Cupid Crunch Valentine’s Day Trail Mix is the perfect festive snack for Valentine’s Day! This sweet and salty mix features a delightful combination of crunchy cereals, chocolate, and colorful sprinkles. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for parties, gifting, or a cozy movie night at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with no baking required.
- Festive and Fun: Bright Valentine’s colors make this mix perfect for celebrations.
- Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy this sweet treat.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chex cereal (any variety)
- Pretzels (mini or sticks)
- Mini marshmallows
- Valentine’s-themed M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates
- White chocolate chips or melting wafers
- Valentine’s sprinkles or nonpareils
Directions
- Prepare a Large Bowl: Combine Chex cereal, pretzels, and mini marshmallows in a large mixing bowl.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
- Combine: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cereal mixture, gently stirring to coat evenly.
- Add Toppings: Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle M&Ms and Valentine’s sprinkles on top while the chocolate is still wet.
- Set and Break Apart: Let the mix cool and harden for about 20 minutes. Break into clusters and transfer to a serving bowl or individual bags for gifting.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 10 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Setting Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Dark or Milk Chocolate: Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate if preferred.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate peanuts, almonds, or cashews for extra crunch.
- Dried Fruit: Add dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins for a fruity touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels and cereal to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Themed Mix: Change the colors of M&Ms and sprinkles to suit other holidays or themes.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in sealed bags for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this mix ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cupid Crunch up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
2. What type of Chex cereal should I use?
Rice or corn Chex work best, but any variety will do.
3. Can I use other candies instead of M&Ms?
Absolutely! Try conversation hearts, candy-coated almonds, or gummy candies.
4. How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
Work quickly when adding sprinkles and candies after drizzling the melted chocolate.
5. Is this mix nut-free?
Yes, as written, the recipe is nut-free, but always check ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination.
6. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Use a larger bowl and multiple baking sheets.
7. What if my melted chocolate seizes?
If the chocolate seizes, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening and stir until smooth.
8. Can I add popcorn to this mix?
Yes, popcorn makes a great addition and pairs well with the other ingredients.
9. Can I use homemade marshmallows?
Certainly! Just cut them into small pieces to match the mini marshmallow size.
10. What’s the best way to gift this mix?
Package it in clear cellophane bags, mason jars, or festive tins with a Valentine’s ribbon or tag.
Conclusion
Cupid Crunch Valentine’s Day Trail Mix is the ultimate sweet and salty snack for celebrating love and friendship. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for parties or thoughtful gifts. Whip up a batch and share the love this Valentine’s Day!
Print
Cupid Crunch Valentine’s Day Trail Mix
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 10 cups 1x
- Category: Snack Holiday
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cupid Crunch is a sweet and salty Valentine’s Day snack mix that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. With popcorn, pretzels, candies, and a drizzle of white chocolate, this festive treat is as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 6 cups (50g) popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
- 2 cups (100g) mini pretzels
- 1 cup (150g) Valentine’s Day M&M’s or chocolate candies
- 1 cup (150g) heart-shaped gummy candies or red jelly beans
- 1 cup (100g) white chocolate chips or melting wafers
- 1/4 cup (40g) Valentine’s Day sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the popcorn and pretzels. Gently toss to mix.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Assemble the Mix:
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the popcorn and pretzel mixture. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to toss and coat evenly.
- Add the Toppings:
- Before the white chocolate sets, sprinkle the M&M’s, gummy candies, and Valentine’s sprinkles over the mixture. Gently toss to distribute.
- Set and Break Apart:
- Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Let it cool and set completely, about 20 minutes.
- Once set, break into clusters or pieces.
- Serve or Package:
- Serve in a large bowl or divide into small gift bags tied with festive ribbons for a sweet Valentine’s Day treat.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1 cup of salted nuts (like almonds or peanuts) or crushed chocolate wafer cookies.
- Use pink or red candy melts instead of white chocolate for a more colorful look.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.