🎉 Introduction
Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix is the ultimate savory alternative to sweet trail mixes. Bold, crunchy, and packed with classic ranch flavor, this snack mix is perfect for road trips, movie nights, game days, lunchboxes, or anytime you want something salty and satisfying. It’s easy to make, endlessly snackable, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
What makes this mix so irresistible is the combination of textures—crispy cereal, crunchy crackers, and savory seasoning that coats every bite evenly. Baked until perfectly crisp, this ranch snack mix delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for casual snacking and entertaining alike.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 cups crispy cereal squares
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 2 cups cheese-flavored crackers
- 1 cup oyster-style crackers
- ½ cup mixed nuts
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cereal squares, pretzels, cheese crackers, oyster crackers, and mixed nuts. Toss gently to mix evenly.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 4: Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the snack mix.
Step 5: Stir thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 6: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 7: Bake for 40–45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even crisping.
Step 8: Remove from the oven once golden and fragrant.
Step 9: Allow the snack mix to cool completely on the baking sheet, where it will continue to crisp.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: About 10–12 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: About 55 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch.
- Reheating is not required.
🥄 Variations
- Add extra pretzels for more crunch.
- Mix in popcorn after baking for a lighter texture.
- Use spicy seasoning for a bold kick.
- Add sesame sticks for extra flavor depth.
- Sprinkle with extra ranch seasoning once cooled for stronger taste.
❓ 10 FAQs
- Is this trail mix spicy?
No, it’s savory and flavorful, not spicy. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores very well for several days. - Do I have to bake it?
Baking helps the seasoning stick and crisps everything evenly. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets. - Is this good for parties?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for sharing. - Does it stay crunchy?
Yes, when stored properly. - Can I customize the mix-ins?
Yes, it’s very flexible. - Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love the crunchy texture. - Can I pack this for travel?
Yes, it’s great for road trips. - Does butter make it greasy?
No, it bakes in and coats evenly.
🏁 Conclusion
This Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix is the perfect savory snack for any occasion. Crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that works just as well for casual snacking as it does for entertaining. Once you try it, this ranch-flavored mix will become a staple in your snack rotation.
Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix – Savory, Crunchy, and Addictively Good
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Notes
No, it’s savory and flavorful, not spicy. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores very well for several days. Do I have to bake it?
Baking helps the seasoning stick and crisps everything evenly. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets. Is this good for parties?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for sharing. Does it stay crunchy?
Yes, when stored properly. Can I customize the mix-ins?
Yes, it’s very flexible. Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love the crunchy texture. Can I pack this for travel?
Yes, it’s great for road trips. Does butter make it greasy?
No, it bakes in and coats evenly. 🏁 Conclusion
This Ranch Trail Mix Snack Mix is the perfect savory snack for any occasion. Crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that works just as well for casual snacking as it does for entertaining. Once you try it, this ranch-flavored mix will become a staple in your snack rotation.
