Maple Cayenne Whole Grain Snack Mix

Easy to make, delicious, and full of whole grains. That’s what makes a really good snack !

WHAT YOU NEED:

3 cups freshly popped plain popcorn

2 cups wheat “chex” cereal

2 cups unsweetened Cheerios

2 cups bite-sized pretzels

1 cup unsalted pepitas or unsalted nuts (eg, pistachios, peanuts, mixed nuts)

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup olive oil

1 Tbsp. white vinegar

½ tsp. Kosher salt

½ - 1 tsp. cayenne pepper

MAKING IT:

Preheat oven to 275ºF.

Blend together popcorn, cereals, pretzels and pepitas (or nuts) in a large bowl.

Combine maple syrup, olive oil, vinegar, salt and cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Drizzle maple mixture over cereal, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Spread on a rimmed baking sheet.

Bake until crisp, about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, Let cool completely before serving or storing. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Makes about 8 cups or 12 servings.

NUTRITION:

Nutrition Information per serving (about 2/3 cup): 210 Calories; 10g Total Fat; (2g Sat Fat; 0g Trans Fat); 0mg Chol; 160mg Sodium; 26g Total Carb; (2g Fiber; 10g Total Sugars; 8g Added Sugars); 6g Protein; 35% DV Iron

TIPS:

This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using corn or rice “chex” cereal and gluten free pretzels. Or you can omit the pretzels and add an additional cup of popcorn.