Prepare to delight your taste buds with our incredibly easy and utterly delicious homemade gluten-free Chex Mix recipe! Whether you’re planning a lively game day gathering, a cozy movie night in, an exciting sleepover for the kids, or a festive holiday celebration, this savory snack mix is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The first time I tried a batch of this irresistible mix, introduced by my husband Michael’s mom during Christmas a few years ago, I was instantly hooked. It quickly became a staple in our home, and for good reason – it’s simply impossible to resist its addictive crunch and rich, savory flavors.

For those navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, traditional Chex Mix often presents a challenge. While many Chex cereals themselves are naturally gluten-free, classic recipes frequently incorporate gluten-containing ingredients like Wheat Chex, various crackers, standard pretzels, bagel chips, and even some seasoning blends that can contain hidden gluten. This can make finding a safe and delicious party snack a frustrating endeavor for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

But fear not! We believe no friend should miss out on such a fantastic snack. That’s why I’ve meticulously crafted my favorite *easy* gluten-free Chex Mix recipe. This version is made exclusively with readily available gluten-free ingredients, ensuring you can find everything you need at most major grocery stores from trusted brands. Our gluten-free snack mix delivers all the classic crunch and deeply savory flavor you crave from traditional Chex Mix, prepared simply and entirely without gluten.

It’s not just a safe option; it’s a spectacular one! This recipe is ideal for your next party because it demands minimal effort, yielding a generous batch perfect for sharing. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests, all while providing a snack that everyone can enjoy without worry. The combination of crispy cereals, crunchy pretzels, and savory nuts coated in a perfectly seasoned butter sauce creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ready to whip up a batch of this delectable, easy gluten-free Chex Mix? Let’s gather the ingredients and get started on creating your new favorite savory snack!
The delightful aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes will be just the beginning of this delightful culinary journey.

Simple Ingredients for a Sensational Gluten-Free Chex Mix

One of the many reasons this is such a fantastic recipe is its reliance on simple, accessible ingredients. You won’t need to hunt down obscure items; most of these can be found in your local grocery store’s gluten-free aisle or even the regular cereal and snack sections. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this savory blend so special:

• Rice Chex Cereal & Corn Chex Cereal: A hearty cheer for these naturally gluten-free Chex cereals! I find that a harmonious blend of Rice Chex and Corn Chex provides the ideal foundation for our gluten-free Chex Mix. Their distinct textures contribute to the overall crunch, ensuring every bite is satisfying. We’ll then complement these with other delightful additions.
• Gluten-Free Pretzels: For me, a generous amount of pretzels is non-negotiable in Chex Mix! Our absolute favorites are Snyder’s gluten-free pretzels, which offer that perfect salty snap. However, you have many excellent options, including Glutino or Quinn Snacks brands, all of which maintain that essential pretzel crunch.
• Cheerios: Adding original Cheerios introduces a wonderful textural and shape contrast. They absorb the savory seasoning beautifully, becoming incredibly flavorful and adding another layer of interest to the mix. Just make sure to grab the original, gluten-free version!
• Mixed Nuts or Peanuts: To enrich the flavor profile, I typically opt for a high-quality mixed nuts blend when making Chex Mix. This provides a variety of textures and nutty notes. Feel free to stick with your preferred nuts, such as cocktail peanuts, almonds, or cashews. If you need a nut-free Chex mix, simply substitute with an additional 3/4 cup of pretzels and 3/4 cup of Cheerios for a similar bulk and crunch.
• Butter (Or Vegan Butter): This is the crucial base for our savory “sauce” that will generously coat the dry ingredients. You’ll start with perfectly melted butter, or, if you’re catering to dietary restrictions, melted dairy-free butter works just as well. At our house, we’re particularly fond of Kerrygold butter for its rich flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce (pronounced WOO-stuh-sure) is indispensable, imparting that classic, complex “umami” flavor that truly defines savory Chex Mix. It’s vital to ensure you’re using a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, such as Lea & Perrins in the United States, as many traditional brands contain wheat-based soy sauce, which would introduce gluten. Always double-check the label!
• Seasoned Salt: This ingredient is a game-changer! I’ve experimented with batches both with and without seasoned salt, and I can confidently say the Chex Mix made with seasoned salt is vastly superior. It’s all about the expertly balanced blend of various seasonings, adding depth and a familiar savory kick. Lawry’s is a popular and reliable gluten-free option.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Let’s be honest, this gluten-free Chex Mix won’t win you any fresh breath contests immediately after eating, but the generous addition of onion powder and garlic powder is essential! These two ingredients are the secret to achieving that deep, aromatic flavor profile you’re seeking in a homemade Chex Mix recipe. They provide a foundational savory taste that elevates the entire snack.

How To Make Gluten-Free Chex Party Mix: A Step-by-Step Guide

For precise ingredient measurements, detailed instructions, and helpful tips, please refer to the full recipe card located at the bottom of this page.

1. Preheat The Oven & Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). This low, slow heat is crucial for achieving that signature crispy, dry texture without burning. Line a large baking sheet (a 13″x18″ half sheet pan works perfectly) with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine The Dry Ingredients: In a very large bowl – seriously, grab your biggest one to allow for thorough mixing – combine your gluten-free pretzels, Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Cheerios, and mixed nuts. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly distributed. This ensures a consistent flavor in every bite.
3. Mix Up Your Seasoning Sauce: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Do this in 15-second increments, stirring between each, until the butter is completely liquefied. Once melted, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk vigorously until all the ingredients are uniform and perfectly blended into a savory sauce.
4. Toss To Coat: Pour the melted butter mixture evenly over your bowl of dry ingredients. Now, the key to a perfectly flavored Chex Mix: stir for at least a full minute. This dedicated stirring time ensures that every single piece of cereal, every pretzel, and every nut is thoroughly coated with that delicious, savory sauce, preventing any bland spots.
5. Spread Out: Transfer the coated cereal mixture from the bowl onto your prepared baking sheet. Spread it out into a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in a less crispy mix. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
6. Bake, Stir & Cool: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake for one hour. During this hour, make sure to stir the Chex Mix every 15 minutes. This regular stirring promotes even browning and ensures all sides of the ingredients get crisp. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the Chex Mix to cool completely on the baking sheet. It’s essential for it to cool fully before storing to achieve maximum dryness and crispness.
7. Serve Or Store: Once cooled, your homemade gluten-free Chex Mix is ready to be enjoyed! Dive in immediately and serve it up as a delightful snack. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, maintaining its delicious crunch for continued enjoyment.

FAQ + Tips And Tricks For The Best Gluten-Free Chex Mix

We’ve gathered some common questions and helpful tips to ensure your gluten-free Chex Mix turns out perfectly every time and fits your specific dietary needs.

Can I Make Gluten-Free Vegan Chex Mix?

Absolutely, you can! To make this recipe completely vegan, you’ll need to make a couple of simple substitutions. First, swap out regular butter for a high-quality vegan butter, such as Earth Balance. Second, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly. Brands like Simple Truth Vegan Worcestershire sauce are excellent options, but always double-check the label to confirm it’s both gluten-free *and* vegan, as some brands might only be one or the other. The great news is that Corn Chex, Rice Chex, Snyder’s gluten-free pretzels, Cheerios (original), mixed nuts, and all the seasonings in this recipe are typically naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making the transition quite straightforward.

What Can I Use Instead Of Seasoned Salt?

While Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is widely regarded as gluten-free and adds a fantastic depth of flavor, if you don’t have it on hand or prefer an alternative, you have options! You can easily make your own homemade seasoned salt using common pantry staples. This allows you to control the exact blend of spices, tailoring it to your personal taste. A simple homemade version often includes salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar.

Can I Double This Recipe?

Yes, this delicious snack mix scales up wonderfully for a larger crowd! While it works great for a party, you might find it easier to bake it in two separate batches rather than attempting one massive batch, especially unless you possess an industrial-sized mixing bowl and oven. If you plan on baking two pans at once, remember to rotate them every 15 minutes after stirring. This ensures both pans bake evenly and achieve that desired crispness on all sides.

Storage and Freshness Tips for Your Gluten-Free Chex Mix

To keep your Chex Mix at its peak crunch and flavor, proper storage is key. Always allow the mix to cool completely after baking. Storing it while still warm can trap moisture, leading to a soggy texture. Once cooled, transfer the Chex Mix to an airtight container. A large zip-top bag or a container with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly. Store it at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, up to 2 weeks, you can keep it in the refrigerator. If it loses some of its crispness, you can briefly re-bake it at 250°F (120°C) for 10-15 minutes until it’s refreshed.

Customization Ideas to Make Your Chex Mix Unique

This gluten-free Chex Mix recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity! Feel free to experiment with additions to make it uniquely yours:

• Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
• Sweet & Savory Twist: Incorporate some gluten-free chocolate candies (like M&M’s) or dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins) after the baking and cooling process for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
• Cheese Lovers: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free cheesy flavor) can be added to the seasoning mix before baking.
• Different Cereals: Explore other certified gluten-free cereals beyond Chex and Cheerios. Just ensure they are plain and unsweetened to maintain the savory profile.
• Herbaceous Notes: A touch of dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning can introduce an aromatic layer to your mix.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Chex Mix Recipes To Try

Gluten-Free Christmas Chex Mix

Gluten-Free Sweet Chex Mix (Coconut Almond)

Gluten-Free Cookies & Cream Muddy Buddies

Gluten-Free Leprechaun Bait

PS – Love Chex Mix? Don’t miss our other yummy cereal treats & snack mixes for even more delicious ideas!

Easy Gluten-Free Chex Mix

★★★★★

5 from 3 votes

Author: Emily Dixon, Sweets & Thank You

We LOVE homemade chex mix! Our savory gluten-free chex mix recipe is the perfect party snack! You’ll love the crunch & flavor!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 12 cups snack mix

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Ingredients

For The Dry Ingredients:

• 4 cups gluten-free pretzels (we like Snyder’s gluten-free)
• 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
• 1 ½ cups Cheerios cereal
• 1 ½ cups Mixed nuts (or peanuts or cashews*)

For The Seasoning Sauce:

• ½ cup Butter (8 Tablespoons/4 oz./1 stick)
• ¼ cup Gluten-Free Worcestershire sauce (like Lea & Perrins in the United States)
• 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt (We recommend Lawry’s)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder

Instructions

1. Preheat The Oven & Prep Your Pan. Start by preheating the oven to 250 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet (13″x18,” often called a half sheet pan) with parchment paper.
2. Combine The Dry Ingredients. In your largest large bowl, combine gluten-free pretzels, corn Chex, rice Chex, Cheerios, and Nuts. Stir to combine well, so everything is pretty evenly distributed.
3. Mix Up Your Seasoning Sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 15-second increments until fully melted and liquid. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir or whisk to combine until uniform and well blended.
4. Toss To Coat. Pour the seasoning sauce over the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Stir for at least a full minute, to really distribute the sauce well.
5. Spread Out. Turn the Chex mix mixture out onto your prepared pan and spread into an even layer.
6. Bake, Stir & Cool. Then, bake the Chex mix at 250 degrees F for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even browning. Allow the Chex mix to cool completely before storing (so that it’s as dry as possible).
7. Serve Or Store. Then, dive in and serve immediately or place cooled Chex mix in an airtight container and store at room temperature up to 5 days.

Notes

• *For a nut-free option, omit the mixed nuts and add 3/4 cup additional pretzels and 3/4 cup additional Cheerios cereal.
• **Prefer a little kick? Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your butter mixture before pouring it over the cereal.

Video

Learn how to make our delicious Gluten-Free Chex Mix step-by-step with our video guide!

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Keyword: chex mix, gluten-free snack, party mix

Find the recipe: sweetsandthankyou.com/gluten-free-chex-mix/