Hot Cocoa Snack Mix

Why You’ll Love Hot Cocoa Snack Mix Recipe

• It’s quick — only about 10 minutes from start to finish (5 minutes prep + 5 minutes cooking).

• It combines warm hot cocoa flavor with a satisfying crunchy texture.

• It’s flexible: you can add marshmallows and candy that make it extra fun.

• It’s ideal for sharing — a crowd-pleaser for friends, family, or holiday treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups rice cereal or corn cereal

• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 2 packets hot cocoa mix

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (such as M&M’s)

Directions

1. Pour the rice or corn cereal into a large mixing bowl.

2. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

3. Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal and stir carefully until all the cereal is evenly coated.

4. Add the powdered sugar and the hot cocoa mix to the cereal-chocolate mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Let the mixture dry completely before storing.

5. If desired, stir in the mini marshmallows and candy-coated chocolates (like M&M’s) for extra sweetness and fun.

Servings and timing

Makes about 10 servings.
Total time: approximately 10 minutes (5 minutes prep + 5 minutes cooking).

Variations

• Use corn cereal instead of rice cereal — whichever you have on hand.

• Swap in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a less sweet, richer chocolate flavor.

• Add nuts or pretzels to give a salty-sweet twist and crunchy texture.

• Mix in white chocolate chips, or drizzle melted white chocolate over the finished mix for a festive look.

Storage/Reheating

Store the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature. No reheating is needed — just serve and enjoy. For best results, consume within a few days to keep the cereal crispy and the mix fresh.

FAQs

How long will this snack mix stay fresh?

If stored in an airtight container, it should stay fresh for several days while maintaining its crunch and flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time for holiday parties?

Yes, this snack mix is perfect for making in advance. Just keep it sealed in a container to maintain freshness.

Can I skip the marshmallows or candies?

Absolutely. The base mix of chocolate-coated cereal is delicious on its own. Marshmallows and candies are just optional add-ins.

What if I don’t have rice or corn cereal?

You can try any sturdy cereal with a similar texture, but avoid ones that are too delicate or sugary on their own.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Yes, dark or semi-sweet chocolate works great and provides a richer flavor for those who prefer less sweetness.

Is this snack mix gluten-free?

It can be, if you use certified gluten-free cereal and cocoa mix. Always check the packaging.

Could I bake or heat the mix instead of microwaving chocolate?

Microwaving is best for melting chocolate quickly and evenly without burning. Baking isn’t recommended as it may ruin the texture.

What’s the best way to coat the cereal evenly?

Use a large bowl and a rubber spatula to gently toss the cereal with melted chocolate, then again with the cocoa and sugar until fully coated.

Can I double the recipe easily?

Yes, you can double or triple the recipe. Use a large mixing bowl and stir carefully to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Is this snack mix good for kids?

Yes, kids love the fun combination of chocolate, cereal, marshmallows, and candy. Just serve in moderation due to the sugar content.

Conclusion

Hot Cocoa Snack Mix is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that blends nostalgic hot chocolate flavors with satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for sharing at parties, gifting during the holidays, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack any time of year. Customizable, quick, and crowd-friendly — this mix is a must-try.

Hot Cocoa Snack Mix

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This Hot Cocoa Snack Mix is a sweet and crunchy treat that combines chocolatey cereal, marshmallows, and festive sprinkles for a perfect holiday or winter snack. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is great for gifting or parties.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 2 mins
• Total Time: 12 mins
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 6 cups chocolate Chex cereal
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup mini pretzels
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix
• 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate Chex cereal, mini marshmallows, and mini pretzels.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and hot cocoa mix.
5. Sprinkle the sugar-cocoa mixture over the coated cereal and toss to combine.
6. Add holiday sprinkles if using and gently toss again.
7. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set.
8. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Use holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive look.
• Let the mix cool completely before storing to prevent clumping.
• You can substitute with gluten-free pretzels and cereal for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 2mg