Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious snack that requires minimal cleanup? Look no further than the Trash Bag Snack Mix.
This no-fuss recipe is perfect for busy days, road trips, or last-minute gatherings. By mixing all your favorite crunchy, salty, and sweet ingredients in a simple trash bag, you get a flavorful, customizable snack mix without dirtying extra bowls or dishes.
It’s a fun way to bring together a variety of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Whether you want a spicy kick, a hint of sweetness, or a bit of savory goodness, this recipe can be tailored to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up odds and ends from your pantry or to experiment with new snack combinations.
Keep reading for the full recipe, equipment needed, and helpful tips to make your own perfect Trash Bag Snack Mix!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This snack mix is a breeze to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is incredibly versatile.
Convenience is key: mix everything in a trash bag, shake, and serve—no bowls or extra dishes required!
Customization is endless: swap in your favorite nuts, cereals, or seasonings to make it uniquely yours.
It’s perfect for parties, picnics, or just a quick snack on the go. Plus, the combination of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors will keep you reaching for more.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- 2 cups pretzel sticks
- 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
- 1 cup mini cheese crackers
- 1 cup bite-sized bagel chips or cereal squares
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Equipment
- Large sturdy trash bag (gallon size works well)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan (for melting butter)
- Large spoon or spatula for mixing
- Baking sheet or large tray (optional, for spreading out mix)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Measure out all the dry ingredients and set them aside.
- Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the butter until fully liquid.
- Add seasonings: Stir the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper into the melted butter. Mix well.
- Place dry ingredients in trash bag: Add the Chex cereal, pretzels, mixed nuts, cheese crackers, bagel chips, and dried cranberries to the trash bag.
- Pour seasoning mixture: Slowly pour the butter and seasoning mixture into the trash bag over the dry ingredients.
- Seal and shake: Carefully seal the trash bag, removing as much air as possible, then shake vigorously to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Spread to dry (optional): For a crispier mix, spread the coated snack mix onto a baking sheet and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the seasoning to set.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer to a bowl or serve straight from the bag for a fun, casual snack experience.
Tips & Variations
“Feel free to get creative! Swap out pretzels for goldfish crackers, add a handful of chocolate chips for sweetness, or toss in some sunflower seeds for extra crunch.”
– For a spicier snack mix, increase cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder.
– To make it gluten-free, ensure your cereal and crackers are certified gluten-free.
– For a sweet and salty twist, add chocolate candies or candy-coated peanuts.
– Try adding roasted chickpeas or seasoned pumpkin seeds for extra protein and flavor.
– If you prefer a warm snack mix, spread the coated mix on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 Cup Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Serving Suggestions
The Trash Bag Snack Mix is incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions.
- Serve it in a large bowl at parties or game nights for easy grazing.
- Pack it in small snack bags for a quick grab-and-go option during road trips or hikes.
- Pair it with fresh veggies or a light dip to balance salty and fresh flavors.
- Use it as a crunchy topping for salads or soups to add texture and interest.
- It’s also a great snack to accompany your favorite drinks during casual get-togethers.
Conclusion
The Trash Bag Snack Mix is a simple, customizable, and delicious way to elevate your snack game. It requires minimal effort, minimal cleanup, and offers maximum flavor and crunch.
Whether you’re hosting friends, packing snacks for an outing, or just need a quick bite between meals, this recipe has you covered. Its versatility lets you tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs, making it a go-to favorite in no time.
If you enjoy easy-to-make, flavorful recipes like this, you might also love exploring some of my other favorites like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and the refreshing Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Trash Bag Snack Mix
Description: A quick and easy snack mix made by tossing your favorite ingredients in a trash bag. Perfect for parties or on-the-go snacking.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cornflakes cereal
- 2 cups pretzel sticks
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 cup cheese crackers
- 1 cup mini pretzels
- 1/2 cup M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Place all dry ingredients in a large trash bag.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour the butter mixture into the trash bag over the dry ingredients.
- Seal the bag tightly and shake well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let cool and serve or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 22g
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