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Lighter Slow Cooker Chex Mix with Garlic Butter: Easy & Best Snack

lighter slow cooker chex mix - featured image

A lighter, slow-cooker version of classic Chex mix with garlic butter, less fat, and all the crunch. Perfect for game days, road trips, and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
  • 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 2 cups Wheat Chex cereal
  • 1 cup mini pretzels
  • 1 cup unsalted roasted almonds
  • 1 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter. Set to LOW.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups Corn Chex, 3 cups Rice Chex, 2 cups Wheat Chex, 1 cup mini pretzels, 1 cup unsalted almonds, and 1 cup unsalted peanuts. Toss gently.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until combined.
  4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Toss with a spoon or your hands until every piece is coated.
  5. Transfer the coated mixture to the prepared slow cooker and spread into an even layer. Place a paper towel under the lid to absorb condensation.
  6. Cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.
  7. After 2 hours, check for doneness. The mix should be golden, fragrant, and dry. If still moist, cook for another 30 minutes, stirring once.
  8. Spread the finished Chex mix onto a large baking sheet or parchment-lined countertop. Let cool completely, about 30 minutes.
  9. Once cool, break up any large clumps with your hands. Serve or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Place a paper towel under the slow cooker lid to absorb condensation and keep the mix crispy. Stir every 30 minutes for even toasting. Let cool completely before serving for maximum crunch. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pretzels and certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chex mix, slow cooker, garlic butter, lighter, snack, game day, party