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Crispy Frito Snack Mix Recipe Easy Sweet and Salty Game Day Treat

crispy Frito snack mix - featured image

A crunchy, sweet and salty snack mix featuring Fritos, pretzels, peanuts, caramel bits, and marshmallows, perfect for game day or anytime snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups (180g) Fritos Corn Chips (Fritos Original recommended)
  • 1.5 cups (60g) Mini Pretzels
  • 1 cup (140g) Roasted and salted Peanuts
  • 1 cup (180g) Caramel Bits
  • 1 cup (50g) Mini Marshmallows
  • 4 tablespoons (56g) Unsalted Butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup (70g) Brown Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of Salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 6 cups (180g) of Fritos corn chips, 1.5 cups (60g) mini pretzels, and 1 cup (140g) roasted salted peanuts. Toss gently to mix evenly without breaking the chips.
  4. In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter with 1/3 cup (70g) brown sugar. Stir frequently until smooth and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes in the microwave or 3-4 minutes on the stove over low heat.
  5. Remove the butter mixture from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  6. Pour the butter-sugar mixture over the Fritos, pretzels, and peanuts. Gently fold the mix with a spatula or wooden spoon to coat everything evenly without crushing the chips.
  7. Spread the coated mix evenly on the prepared baking sheet, keeping it mostly in a single layer.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch for a golden color and toasty aroma.
  9. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup (180g) caramel bits and 1 cup (50g) mini marshmallows evenly over the warm mix. Let sit for about 5 minutes to soften and meld flavors.
  10. Once cooled, break the mix into clusters and transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container. Enjoy immediately or store for later.

Notes

For extra crispy clusters, return the mix to the oven for another 3-5 minutes after adding caramel and marshmallows, watching closely to avoid burning. Handle the mix gently to avoid crushing the Fritos. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refresh crispiness by toasting in a low oven if needed. Variations include swapping nuts, using gluten-free pretzels, or adding spices like cayenne for a kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: Frito snack mix, sweet and salty snack, game day snack, crunchy snack mix, caramel snack mix, easy snack recipe