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This sweet and spicy autumn treat combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with crunchy Cinnamon Chex Cereal and touches of tart cranberries and roasted pumpkin seeds. It is a quick and festive snack that captures the essence of fall with minimal effort.
I first made these on a crisp October afternoon and instantly knew they would become my go-to fall treat. My friends were obsessed, and I love how easy it is to whip up for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Cinnamon Chex Cereal: one box 13.5 ounces provides a crunchy sweet base packed with cinnamon flavor
- White chocolate chips: one and a half cups add creamy sweetness that melts and binds all ingredients together
- Dried unsweetened cranberries: one cup contribute a tart burst that contrasts the sweet and spicy notes
- Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds: one cup offer a nutty crunch and earthy flavor making it more complex
- Pumpkin pie spice: two teaspoons is the star seasoning bringing warm autumn warmth—pick a fresh blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves
- Powdered sugar: half cup divided helps coat and gives a snow-dusted finish locking in flavor and adding a soft texture
Instructions
- Sift Together the Mix:
- Combine the Cinnamon Chex Cereal, cranberries and pumpkin seeds in a large bowl and set aside. This layering of textures and flavors creates the base for your snack.
- Melt and Spice the White Chocolate:
- Using a double boiler or microwave melt the white chocolate chips slowly stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Mix in the pumpkin pie spice thoroughly to infuse the chocolate with autumn magic.
- Coat the Cereal Mix:
- Pour the melted white chocolate blend over the cereal mixture. Fold gently but thoroughly making sure every piece is evenly coated. This step ensures each bite is both sweet and spicy.
- Sugar Coat the Treat:
- Divide the powdered sugar evenly between two large zip-lock bags. Place half of the coated cereal into each bag and shake vigorously until the powdered sugar completely covers the pieces. This step adds a delightful sugary crust.
- Dry and Store:
- Spread the sugar-coated mix out on a baking sheet in a single layer to dry completely. Once dry transfer to an airtight container for storage to keep its crunch and freshness.
The pumpkin pie spice really steals the show here. I love how it brings back memories of baking pumpkin pie with my family growing up. It gives this snack an unmistakable cozy warmth that feels like a hug on a chilly day.
Storage Tips
Keep the Pumpkin Spice Buddies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunch. They will stay fresh and tasty up to a week. Avoid storing in the fridge which can introduce moisture and soften the mix.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Cinnamon Chex Cereal try using regular Chex mixed with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before coating. For white chocolate chips you can substitute with vanilla-flavored baking wafers. Dried cherries or raisins can replace cranberries for a different tart note.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pumpkin Spice Buddies in festive bowls during holiday gatherings or pack them in small treat bags for gifting. They pair wonderfully with hot apple cider or spiced chai tea to enhance the flavors.
These Pumpkin Spice Buddies are an easy, crowd-pleasing snack that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. Make a batch for parties or to enjoy with your favorite warm drink.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What cereal works best for this treat?
Cinnamon-flavored cereals add warmth and spice, complementing the pumpkin pie spices perfectly.
- → Can I substitute the white chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk or dark chocolate, though white chocolate enhances the creamy, sweet flavor here.
- → How should I store this autumn snack?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve the crunch and flavors up to a week.
- → Are pumpkin seeds necessary?
Roasted pumpkin seeds provide a nutty crunch and seasonal appeal but can be omitted if preferred.
- → What is the best way to melt the white chocolate?
Using a double boiler gently melts white chocolate evenly without burning, but a microwave on low power works too.