Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

Recipe By:

Dahlia

Posted:

July 3, 2025

Updated:

July 3, 2025

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Red, white, and blue snack mix is an addictive sweet and salty treat perfect for summer snacking! This colorful mix is ideal for potlucks, picnics, and gatherings during Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any event!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This snack mix comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick choice for last-minute get-togethers.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.
Fun Presentation: The bright colors make it visually appealing for festive occasions.
Sweet and Salty Balance: Enjoy the perfect combination of flavors with candy melts and savory pretzels.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields eight servings, making it great for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To create the red, white, and blue snack mix efficiently, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Large zip-close baggie
Parchment or wax paper
Sieve
Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: This is essential for melting the candy melts smoothly without burning them.
Large zip-close baggie: Perfect for coating the cereal with powdered sugar without creating a mess.
Sieve: Helps you easily remove excess powdered sugar from the cereal after coating.

Ingredients

For the Candy Coated Chex

½ cup red candy melts
½ cup blue candy melts
2 cups Rice Chex cereal (divided)
6 Tbsp confectioners sugar (divided)
2 Tbsp vegetable shortening

For the Mix

½ cup red (white & blue M&Ms)
½ cup yogurt covered raisins
2 cups yogurt covered pretzels

How to Make Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

Step 1: Melt the Red Candy Melts

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt red candy melts along with 1 tablespoon of vegetable shortening. If using a microwave, heat in increments of 30 seconds while stirring in between until melted and smooth. For a double boiler, heat over medium-high heat while stirring frequently until smooth.

Step 2: Prepare for Coating

While the candy melts are melting, place 3 tablespoons of confectioners sugar into a large zip-close baggie. Lay out parchment or wax paper on your countertop for cooling the cereal later.

Step 3: Coat the Rice Chex

Once the red candy has melted, pour in one cup of Rice Chex. Gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 4: Sugar Coating Process

Spoon the coated cereal into the baggie. Gently toss and shake to coat with powdered sugar. Pour everything into a sieve to shake off any excess sugar.

Step 5: Cool Down the Coated Cereal

Spread the coated cereal evenly on prepared parchment or wax paper to cool and harden.

Step 6: Repeat with Blue Candy Melts

Repeat steps 1 through 5 using the blue candy melts with the second cup of Rice Chex.

Step 7: Assemble Your Snack Mix

After both batches of Chex have cooled completely, it’s time to assemble! In a large mixing bowl, combine all Chex pieces with yogurt-covered pretzels, M&Ms, and yogurt-covered raisins. Gently stir until evenly mixed.

Step 8: Serve or Store

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to keep fresh.

Now you have a delicious Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix that’s perfect for any summer celebration! Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors while celebrating with friends and family.

How to Serve Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

This festive snack mix is not only fun to make but also a delight to serve! Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your presentation and enjoyment.

In Individual Cups

Use small paper or plastic cups for individual servings. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling.

At a Picnic Table

Place the snack mix in a large bowl with a scoop. Set it on your picnic table along with other summer favorites for a colorful spread.

As Party Favors

Fill small clear bags with the snack mix tied with red, white, and blue ribbons. It’s a great way for guests to take home a tasty treat.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange the snack mix on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit. The colors will complement each other beautifully, making it visually appealing.

For Movie Night

Serve the snack mix in oversized bowls while enjoying a movie at home. It’s the perfect sweet and salty balance to keep everyone satisfied.

How to Perfect Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

To achieve the best version of this delightful snack mix, keep these tips in mind.

Use fresh ingredients – Ensure that all candy melts and snacks are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Melt carefully – When melting candy melts, do it slowly to avoid burning. Stir frequently for even melting.
Toss gently – When mixing the cereal with powdered sugar or other ingredients, be gentle to maintain crispness.
Cool completely – Allow the coated cereals to cool fully before mixing them with other components. This prevents clumping.
Store properly – Keep the snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

Pairing side dishes can enhance your snacking experience. Here are some great ideas that complement your Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix.

Fresh Fruit Skewers – Colorful skewers of strawberries, blueberries, and bananas add freshness and balance out sweetness.
Veggie Platter – A selection of crisp veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus provides crunch and nutrition.
Cheese Board – Include an assortment of cheeses along with crackers for a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet snacks.
Popcorn – Lightly salted or flavored popcorn is a fun addition that adds another crunchy element to your gathering.
Mini Sandwiches – Bite-sized sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken can satisfy savory cravings alongside your sweet snack mix.
Guacamole & Chips – Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips offers a zesty dip option that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of your mix.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delightful Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Not measuring ingredients accurately: Ensure you measure your candy melts and cereal precisely. This will help achieve the right balance of flavors and textures.
Skipping the cooling process: Allow the coated cereal to cool completely before mixing. This prevents clumping and ensures a crispy snack mix.
Using old or stale ingredients: Check the freshness of your candies and cereals. Using fresh ingredients enhances taste and enjoyment.
Overmixing the snack mix: Gently stir when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can break apart delicate pieces like yogurt-covered pretzels.
Storing improperly: Use an airtight container for storage. This keeps your snack mix fresh longer and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix

Oven: Spread on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to warm through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until just warm; avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a non-stick pan, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this tasty Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix:

How long does Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix last?

The snack mix can last up to one week when stored correctly in an airtight container.

Can I customize the ingredients for my Red, White, and Blue Snack Mix?

Absolutely! You can add other candies or nuts based on your preference. Just ensure they complement the existing flavors.

What occasions is this snack mix suitable for?

This mix is perfect for summer gatherings like barbecues, picnics, or holidays such as Memorial Day or Independence Day.

Is it possible to make this snack mix ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day or two in advance. Just store it properly to keep it fresh until serving.

Are there any alternatives if I can’t find candy melts?

You can use white chocolate chips melted with food coloring as an alternative to candy melts.

Final Thoughts

Red, white, and blue snack mix is a fun treat that combines sweetness with crunchiness. Its vibrant colors make it perfect for celebrations while allowing room for customization based on your preferences. Try this delightful recipe at your next gathering!