Introduction
Whether you’re prepping snacks for a party, road trip, or your weekly lunchbox lineup, this Ranch Trail Mix is the snack you’ll keep coming back to. It’s packed with crunchy cereal, salty pretzels, and roasted peanuts—all tossed in a ranch-flavored oil blend and baked to crispy perfection. It’s savory, addictive, and totally customizable.
Why I Love This Recipe
Trail mix is great, but this trail mix? It’s crave-worthy. The ranch seasoning adds that classic tangy, herby flavor that makes each bite pop. Baking it gives the whole mix a toasty, golden crunch, and it stores like a dream. It’s my ultimate snack for everything from game day to road trips to low-effort party spreads.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cereal (Chex Mix, Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix)
- 3 cups pretzels (mini twists or sticks)
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
Swaps and Notes
- Nut-Free: Swap peanuts for sunflower seeds or extra cereal.
- Add-Ins: Toss in cheese crackers, rye chips, or popcorn for variety.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a zesty kick.
- Mix It Sweet: Add M&Ms or chocolate chips after baking for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together cereal, pretzels, and peanuts.
- Add Oil and Ranch: Drizzle vegetable oil over the dry mix. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix on top.
- Toss to Coat: Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread mixture on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring every 8–10 minutes.
- Cool: Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store at room temp for up to 1 week.
Tips for Success
- Use a Large Bowl: Makes tossing the mix easier and more even.
- Don’t Overbake: Check often to avoid burning—edges brown faster.
- Let It Cool: It crisps up fully once cooled, so don’t rush to store it warm.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Perfect for movie nights, picnics, lunchboxes, or holiday snack tables. Make it part of your next party spread with:
- This Beer Cheese Dip for dunking fun
- These No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls for a sweet pairing
- This Walking Taco Bar for big gatherings
- These Totchos for a hot, cheesy side
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 7 days.
- Freeze: Can be frozen in zip-top bags for up to 1 month—just let thaw uncovered before serving.
- Pack It: Great for individual snack bags, lunchboxes, or jars for gifting.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- These No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls Are My Favorite Snack to Keep On Hand
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups Are My Favorite Winter Treat to Share and Savor
- This Walking Taco Bar Is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd
- These Totchos Are My Favorite Party Food Hack – Tater Tot Nachos for the Win
Final Thoughts
Ranch Trail Mix is more than just a snack—it’s a party in every handful. It’s easy, customizable, and totally addictive. Keep a batch on hand for quick snacking, or double it for your next party. Just be ready to make it again (and again).
Try it out, and let us know how fast your batch disappears in the comments. And don’t forget to follow for more snackable favorites! 🥨🔥🍴
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