Love the cozy fall vibes and the delicious flavors of caramel apples? Then you’re going to adore this Caramel Apple Snack Mix recipe! This delightful treat combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples, creating the perfect snack for a crisp autumn day or any gathering with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a fall-themed party or simply looking for a tasty snack to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into how to whip up this irresistible Caramel Apple Snack Mix!
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups of crispy rice cereal squares
– 2 cups of pretzel sticks
– 1 cup of pecan halves
– 1 cup of dried apple slices
– 1/2 cup of butter
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of light corn syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal squares, pretzel sticks, pecan halves, and dried apple slices. Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar, light corn syrup, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
4. Carefully pour the caramel sauce over the cereal mixture in the bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the caramel into the dry ingredients until everything is well coated. Be sure to work quickly, as the caramel will start to set as it cools.
5. Spread the caramel-coated snack mix onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through the baking time. Keep a close eye on the snack mix to prevent burning.
6. Once the snack mix is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. The caramel will harden as it cools, creating a delicious crunchy coating on the snack mix.
7. Once cooled, break the Caramel Apple Snack Mix into bite-sized clusters and transfer them to an airtight container for storage. This snack mix can be enjoyed immediately or saved for later snacking.
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet caramel, crunchy cereal, and tangy dried apples with every bite of this Caramel Apple Snack Mix. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy during the fall season or anytime you crave a cozy and delicious snack. Share this recipe with your loved ones and watch it become a favorite go-to for gatherings and everyday munching. Get ready to savor the flavors of autumn with this easy and irresistible snack mix!