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 has become my go-to party treat for New Year's Eve because of its unique flavors and festive appearance.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Base Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black cocoa cereal, pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn.
- Melt Coating:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey and sea salt until smooth.
- Combine:
- Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the snack mix. Toss gently to coat.
- Bake:
- Spread the coated mix in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fragrant and just beginning to crisp.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Serve in bowls or fill festive bags for guests to take home.
Pin it This recipe brings my family together every year, sharing laughs and tasty bites as we celebrate the New Year.
Notes
Espresso beans add a sophisticated touch—omit for a kid-friendly version. Pair with sparkling wine or a festive mocktail for a perfect NYE treat.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, small saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter), gluten (pretzels, some cereals), and soy (chocolate). May contain nuts (if added or present in chocolates). Double-check candy and cereal labels for allergens.
Pin it This snack mix is a delightful treat that combines fun textures and festive colors, perfect to share at your next celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What gives the mix its distinctive black and gold colors?
The black cocoa cereal and dark chocolate chips provide rich dark tones, while gold candy-coated chocolates and star sprinkles add sparkle and color contrast.
- → Can the coating be adjusted for sweetness or saltiness?
Yes, you can vary honey and sea salt amounts to balance the sweet-savory glaze according to taste preferences.
- → Is it possible to make this snack gluten-free?
Absolutely, use gluten-free pretzels and popcorn to maintain the texture while accommodating dietary needs.
- → How can I add a nutty flavor to this mix?
Adding roasted salted cashews or almonds enhances nuttiness and adds extra crunch to the mix.
- → What is a good beverage pairing for this mix?
Sparkling wine or festive mocktails complement the sweet and savory flavors, perfect for celebrations or casual snacking.