Description
This crunchy, salty-sweet snack mix is inspired by Southern flavors and made for the road. Packed with pecans, crispy cereal, a touch of maple, and a little kick of spice, it’s the perfect companion for road trips through the rolling hills of Tennessee—or just a lazy afternoon at home.
Ingredients
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2 cups mini pretzels
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1 cup pecan halves
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1 cup corn or rice cereal squares (like Chex)
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1 cup cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its)
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1 cup kettle popcorn or caramel corn
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1/2 cup maple syrup
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine pretzels, pecans, cereal, and cheese crackers.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, cayenne pepper (if using), paprika, and sea salt.
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Pour the maple mixture over the dry ingredients and toss well to coat everything evenly.
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Spread the mixture out in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and toasty.
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Remove from oven and let cool completely.
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Once cool, toss in the kettle popcorn or caramel corn.
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Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
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You can swap pecans for almonds or peanuts if preferred.
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For a sweeter version, add dried cranberries or chocolate chips after baking.
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Spice level is totally optional—leave out the cayenne for a milder mix.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg