Amazing Trick or Treat Trail Mix

Welcome to a delightful seasonal treat that’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Our Amazing Trick or Treat Trail Mix is a fantastic combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements that will have everyone coming back for more. Created by Kelly Wittman, this mix is so special that it’s reserved for October, making it a highly anticipated event each year. Whether you’re making it for a Halloween party or just a fun fall snack, this is a treat you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trail mix is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of pretzels, peanuts, and mini peanut butter Ritz Bits provides a satisfying crunch, while the candy corn and autumn-colored M&Ms add a burst of sweetness. The caramel coating ties everything together, creating a delicious balance that’s both addictive and festive.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Greased cookie sheet
• Candy thermometer
• Stove top
• Wax paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Tongs (optional, for breaking apart the mix)

Ingredients

• 1 bag medium pretzels
• 1 can dry roasted peanuts
• 1 box mini peanut butter Ritz Bits
• 1 stick real unsalted butter
• 1 cup light Karo syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 package autumn colors M&Ms
• 1 package candy corn

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Spread out the pretzels, peanuts, and peanut butter Ritz Bits on a greased cookie sheet.
2. In a pot on the stove, melt the butter, Karo syrup, and sugar together. Use a candy thermometer to heat the mixture until it reaches 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Quickly add the vanilla and baking soda to the melted mixture. It will foam up, so be prepared!
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the pretzel, peanut, and cracker mixture.
5. Place the cookie sheet in the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 55-60 minutes.
6. Once baked, remove the mixture to wax paper and break it apart quickly as it will harden fast.
7. When the mix has cooled, transfer it to a large bowl and add the candy corn and M&Ms. Mix well and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Be sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before starting, as the caramel mixture requires quick action once it reaches the right temperature. Use tongs if you find it easier to break apart the mix without getting your fingers sticky.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you can’t find autumn-colored M&Ms or candy corn, feel free to substitute with peanut butter M&Ms or another favorite candy. You can also try adding other nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This trail mix is a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. It’s packed with energy from the nuts and candy, providing a sweet boost for your day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this mix ahead of time? Absolutely! This mix stays fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer? You can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a ball, it’s ready.

Can I use salted butter? It’s better to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, but if salted is all you have, it will still work.

Conclusion

We hope you fall in love with this Amazing Trick or Treat Trail Mix as much as we have. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season and share a sweet treat with friends and family. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your spooky snack adventures with us in the comments!