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This savory and crunchy Texas Trash has been the ultimate party snack mix in my house for potlucks and game days. It is the first to disappear at any get together and works perfectly for year round gatherings. If you love a mix of salty bites with a hint of spice and buttery flavor, this recipe hands-down delivers every time.
After trying this on a road trip with my family we could not go back to store-bought snack mixes. Now everyone asks me to bring a big batch to holidays and parties. It is that crowd pleasing.
Ingredients
- Rice Chex cereal: gives a crisp bite and absorbs seasonings very well. Look for boxes with the fewest broken pieces for maximum crunch
- Corn Chex cereal: brings a different texture and enhances the flavor mix. Fresh, unbroken pieces work best
- Cheerios: add a mild flavor and contrast in shape and size. Use plain for best results
- Peanuts: offer nuttiness and protein. Dry roasted is my pick for extra flavor
- Pretzel sticks: supply a salty snap and hold up during baking. I prefer classic style for the best crunch
- Mixed nuts: bring richness and variety in every handful. Choose unsalted or lightly salted and check freshness dates
- Pecans: add buttery flavor and heartiness. Go for whole pieces for the right texture
- Vegan butter: coats everything beautifully. Use one with a clean, rich flavor. Melt fully for even mixing
- Worcestershire sauce: gives depth and savory umami. Splash in a high quality version for best results
- Tabasco: adds just a hint of heat. Use more if you prefer things spicy
- Garlic powder: delivers savory warmth. Freshly opened for the strongest flavor
- Onion powder: rounds out the seasoning and keeps the flavor profile balanced
- Kosher salt: enhances every other taste. A coarse grind brings out the best crunch
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Gently combine the Rice Chex Corn Chex Cheerios peanuts pretzel sticks mixed nuts and pecans in your largest mixing bowl. Take time to separate out any broken or small cereal bits for even baking
- Make the Butter Seasoning:
- In another bowl stir together fully melted vegan butter with Worcestershire sauce Tabasco garlic powder onion powder and kosher salt. Whisk until everything looks creamy and well blended
- Coat the Cereal Mixture:
- Slowly pour the buttery seasoning over the dry mix. With a sturdy wooden spoon or clean hands toss gently and repeatedly until every last piece feels slick and glossy
- Bake Low and Slow:
- Spread the mixture out in a single layer on two large rimmed baking sheets. Slide into a preheated 200 degree oven. Bake for exactly two hours stirring gently and thoroughly every fifteen minutes to redistribute flavor and prevent burning
- Cool and Store:
- Remove pans and allow mix to cool completely on baking sheets. Once fully cooled pour into airtight containers or zip-top bags for snacking
My absolute favorite ingredient is the Worcestershire sauce, even that tiny bit transforms plain cereal into a savory powerhouse. My kids were always proud to help stir the mix and loved sneaking crunchy pieces straight from the pan before cooling.
Storage Tips
Texas Trash stays fresh for up to two weeks in a well-sealed container at room temperature. You can freeze portions in airtight bags for months. Bring back to room temperature before serving so the texture stays at its snappiest. I like to pack little bags for road trips.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the vegan butter for regular butter if you do not mind dairy. Gluten free pretzels and cereals make this mix fully gluten free. Chipotle powder or smoked paprika can swap for the Tabasco for a mild smoky heat. Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut free option if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in big bowls for casual parties or divide into small mason jars tied with ribbon for gifts. My family likes this with sweet iced tea at picnics or paired with a cold soda on movie nights. You can even stuff sandwiches with this snack mix for a playful crunch.
Cultural and Historical Context
Texas Trash has roots as a Southern party favorite and gained fans thanks to shared recipes in community cookbooks and holiday traditions. The combination of cereals nuts and seasoned butter was a thrifty way to stretch ingredients for big gatherings. It remains a staple at holidays especially because everyone can grab a handful.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use roasted pumpkin seeds in autumn Toss in red and green candies at Christmas for a festive look Try dried cranberries for a subtle sweet twist in winter
Last year I made this Texas Trash for my book club and they finished every crumb before our first chapter even started. If you have never tried a homemade snack mix this is the one to start with for instant confidence and compliments.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes Texas Trash so flavorful?
The combination of Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, garlic powder, and onion powder creates a zesty, savory profile that’s absorbed by the cereals and nuts, making each bite bold and seasoned throughout.
- → Can I swap out the nuts or cereals?
Yes! Feel free to use any combination of nuts or cereals based on taste preferences or pantry availability. The proportions can be adjusted for personal variation.
- → How do I prevent the mix from burning?
Stir the mixture every 15 minutes during baking to prevent over-toasting and ensure an even, crispy texture.
- → How should I store the finished mix?
Allow the mix to cool fully, then store in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness and crunch.
- → Can it be made spicier?
Add extra Tabasco or sprinkle in cayenne pepper to boost the heat level and intensify the snack’s spicy kick.
- → Is there a vegan option for this snack?
Yes, using vegan butter as specified keeps it plant-based and delicious without compromising texture or flavor.