Introduction

Hot Chocolate Snack Mix transforms simple Chocolate Chex cereal into a delightful chocolaty treat. Coated with cocoa powder and powdered sugar, layered with white chocolate marshmallows and rich chocolate chips, it’s a cozy snack perfect for any occasion.

A top-down view of a round white plate filled with several layers of small, square-shaped chocolate pillows that have a soft, textured surface. Scattered unevenly on top are small white marshmallows and light brown rolled wafer sticks with darker spiral stripes, adding contrast in color and texture. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a few marshmallows and wafer sticks lying around it, creating a casual and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 cups Chocolate Chex cereal
1 cup powdered sugar
1/3 cup hot chocolate mix with marshmallows (about 1 1/2 packets)
2 cups milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (for white chocolate)
2 cups miniature marshmallows
Optional additions: 1/2 cup dehydrated marshmallows, 1 cup Sno-Cap candies, 1 cup coarsely broken pirouette cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone liner and set aside. Place the Chocolate Chex cereal in a very large bowl.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the hot chocolate mix with the powdered sugar. Pour the mixture into a large (2-gallon) freezer bag and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine milk chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons coconut oil. Microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring 15 seconds between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 4: Pour the melted milk chocolate over the cereal and gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
Step 5: Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the prepared freezer bag with the powdered sugar and cocoa mix. Seal the bag without squeezing out the air and shake well to coat the cereal completely.
Step 6: Pour the coated cereal back into the large bowl and set aside.
Step 7: For the marshmallows, melt white chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a small microwave-safe bowl using 15-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth.
Step 8: Stir miniature marshmallows into the melted white chocolate until well coated. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan and chill in the fridge or freezer until set (about 10 minutes in fridge, or 30 minutes at room temperature).
Step 9: Once set, break the white chocolate-coated marshmallows into pieces and add them to the large bowl with the coated cereal.
Step 10: Mix in any optional additions like dehydrated marshmallows, Sno-Cap candies, or broken pirouette cookies if desired.
Step 11: Serve immediately or store as directed below. Enjoy your cozy Hot Chocolate Snack Mix!

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality chocolate chips such as Ghirardelli® or Guittard® for smoother melting and enhanced flavor.
Melt chocolate in glass bowls instead of plastic for better consistency.
Choose fresh, soft marshmallows to achieve the best texture in the snack mix.
For a less sweet version, substitute semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips and swap Chocolate Chex cereal for Rice Chex.
Jazz up the mix by adding 1/2 cup dehydrated marshmallows, 1 cup Sno-Cap candies, or 1 cup coarsely broken pirouette cookies.

Storage

Store the Hot Chocolate Snack Mix in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place, for up to one week. It’s freshest within 1-2 days for best texture, especially with the marshmallows included. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the snack mix without marshmallows in a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

A top view of a wooden bowl filled with many layers of small brown cereal pillows, creating a textured base layer. On top of the cereal are scattered small white marshmallows and cream-filled wafer rolls that are light brown with dark stripes, adding contrast and texture. Some marshmallows and wafer rolls rest on the bowl's edge, with a few scattered on the white marbled surface around it. The overall look is a mix of rough and smooth textures, with shades of brown and white. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this snack mix ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed within a day or two if marshmallows are included. Without marshmallows, you can store it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

You can substitute with another neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but coconut oil helps the chocolate melt with a glossy finish and smooth texture.