There is something about this time year that makes me hungry for a good snack mix. Maybe it’s the dull, grey weather. And, the fact that what I would really like to do is stay in my pajamas, on the couch with a good book or movie, and eat snack mix ALL day Long! With tea. Or better yet—wine. Wine goes with snack mix, doesn’t it?
I really just love all the different flavors, textures, colors, and the fact that I can almost make a healthy meal out of this stuff. Protein —you betcha. Whole grains—of course! Fruit—yes. M&Ms—they are a food group, right? Of course, there are lots of ways to make snack mix; there isn’t anything earth-shattering here, just some dump-and-go goodness. Feel free to mix things up the way you like. This would be a super simple activity for a classroom Valentine’s party—you really don’t even have to put the melted chocolate on it.
We made a big batch, intending to have it on hand for our Super Bowl party. Yeah, it’s gone already. Like the day after we made it gone already. Looks like next time will require a double batch! Enjoy!
Sweet and Crunchy Valentine’s Snack Mix
Ingredients (mix options):
Mini pretzels
Air-popped popcorn
Whole-grain cereal (Multi-grain Chex, Quaker Oatmeal Squares, Cheerios, etc.)
Peanuts or nuts of your choice
Dried mixed berries
M&Ms or other candies
Mini marshmallows
White chocolate
Sprinkles
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients except white chocolate and sprinkles. Toss together and spread onto a large pan or sheet of parchment paper.
- Heat the white chocolate chips in the microwave for one minute. Stir well. Continue to heat for 20-30 seconds at a time, stirring well, until melted through. Be careful to not overheat.
- Drizzle chocolate over mixed ingredients. Mix as needed to coat. Use as much chocolate as desired. We like a lighter coating just enough to stick the ingredients together. One bag of melted chocolate chips will cover approximately 9-10 cups of the dry mix.
4. Store in an airtight container (if it last that long!). It will stay fresh for up to seven days.
Happy Valentine’s Day!