Homemade General Mills Snack Time Favorites Mix Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: Snack Mix

Introduction

General Mills Snack Time Favorites Mix is a beloved snack that combines crunchy cereals, savory pretzels, and a blend of spices for a flavor that's hard to resist. The original mix, introduced decades ago, has become a staple in many households, offering a convenient and tasty snack. However, many fans of the mix have wondered how to recreate it at home, not just for cost savings but also to tailor the ingredients to their dietary preferences. This recipe allows you to make a healthier, customizable version of the mix, with reduced sugar and the flexibility to adjust seasonings and ingredients as desired.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own Snack Time Favorites Mix at home offers several advantages. Firstly, you can control the amount of sugar and sodium, making it a healthier option. Secondly, you can customize the mix to your taste preferences, adding more of your favorite ingredients or experimenting with new flavors. Additionally, homemade versions are often more cost-effective and free from preservatives found in store-bought mixes.

Personal Anecdote

I remember snacking on General Mills Snack Time Favorites Mix during family movie nights as a child. The combination of crunchy cereals and savory spices was irresistible. As I grew older, I became more conscious of the nutritional content of the foods I eat. This led me to experiment with recreating the mix at home, using healthier ingredients while maintaining that delicious flavor. The result was a mix that not only tasted like the original but also aligned better with my dietary goals.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:60 minutes
• **Total Time:75 minutes
• **Yield:12 cups (serves 12; 1 cup per serving)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 3 cups (45g) Rice Chex cereal
• 3 cups (45g) Corn Chex cereal
• 2 cups (30g) Wheat Chex cereal
• 2 cups (60g) pretzel sticks
• 1 cup (120g) soy nuts or peanuts

Seasoning Blend:

• 3 tablespoons (45g) butter or neutral oil (e.g., vegetable oil)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) grated chicken bouillon cube (low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon (15g) onion powder
• 1 tablespoon (15g) paprika
• 1 tablespoon (15g) dried herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano)
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) sugar

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
• Prepare Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and soy nuts or peanuts.
• Make Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, mix together melted butter or oil, bouillon cube, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and sugar until well combined.
• Coat Ingredients: Pour the seasoning blend over the cereal mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
• Bake: Spread the mixture on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even seasoning.
• Cool and Store: Allow the mix to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Use sodium-free bouillon cubes and reduce the salt.
• Herb-Infused Version: Add more herbs like rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add chili powder.
• Gluten-Free Version: Replace Wheat Chex with gluten-free alternatives.

Pro Tips

• Even Coating: Ensure the cereal mixture is evenly coated with the seasoning blend for optimal flavor.
• Toasting: Bake the mix longer for a deeper flavor, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
• Customization: Adjust the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, but use 3 times the amount called for in dried herbs.
• How do I make it last longer? Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
• Can I scale the recipe? Yes, adjust ingredient quantities proportionally.
• What if it's too salty? Reduce the bouillon or salt next time.
• Can I add cheese? Yes, add grated Parmesan or cheese powder for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a quick snack on its own.
• Use as a topping for soups or salads.
• Pack in lunchboxes for a convenient snack.

Conclusion

This homemade version of General Mills Snack Time Favorites Mix is not only delicious but also healthier and customizable. With reduced sugar and sodium, it's a great alternative to store-bought mixes. Share your creations and enjoy the perfect snack for any occasion!