Pumpkin Spice Buddies Mix

This easy Pumpkin Spice Buddies recipe brings a festive fall twist to a classic party mix. Combining the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice with cinnamon Chex cereal, white chocolate, cranberries, and roasted pumpkin seeds, it’s a perfect snack for Halloween gatherings or cozy afternoons. The sweet and spiced coating makes every bite irresistible.

I made this mix the first time during a chilly October evening and it quickly became a favorite at every family gettogether since then. The pumpkin seeds and cranberries add a lovely chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Cinnamon Chex Cereal: 13.5 ounces Provides a crunchy base with a touch of warm cinnamon flavor
• White chocolate chips: 1 and a half cups For the creamy, sweet coating that brings everything together
• Dried unsweetened cranberries: 1 cup Adds tartness and chewy texture to balance the sweetness
• Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds: 1 cup Offers a nutty crunch and savory depth
• Pumpkin pie spice: 2 teaspoons Brings classic fall flavors of cinnamon nutmeg and clove
• Powdered sugar: half a cup Divided Used for dusting the coated mix to add sweetness and a festive finish

Instructions

Sauté the Base and Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the cinnamon Chex cereal, dried cranberries, and roasted pumpkin seeds. Set this mixture aside to prepare the coating. This step ensures all ingredients are ready to be combined evenly later.

Melt White Chocolate and Incorporate Spices:

Gently melt white chocolate chips using a double boiler for the best control or carefully microwave in short bursts stirring in between. Add the pumpkin pie spice to the melted chocolate and mix thoroughly until the spice is fully incorporated. This creates that iconic warm fall flavor.

Coat the Cereal Mixture:

Pour the spiced white chocolate over the bowl with the cereal, cranberries, and seeds. Use a spatula to fold everything together gently but thoroughly so every piece is coated evenly with the chocolate mixture.

Add Powdered Sugar Coating:

Divide the powdered sugar evenly between two large sealable bags. Split the coated mix between the two bags to avoid overcrowding. Shake each bag vigorously until the powdered sugar fully covers the chocolatecoated mix, giving it a festive and slightly sweet finish.

Dry and Store:

Spread the finished mix out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Allow it to dry completely at room temperature to prevent clumping. Once dry, store your Pumpkin Spice Buddies in an airtight container to keep them crunchy and fresh for several days.

This recipe’s heart is definitely the pumpkin pie spice and white chocolate blend. It reminds me of cozy autumn days with family where we would share stories by the fire. The pumpkin seeds bring a little surprise crunch that makes this mix both comforting and fun to eat.

Storage tips

Store your party mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain the perfect crunch. If you want to keep it longer, placing it in the freezer works wonderfully just let it come back to room temperature before serving. Avoid refrigeration because it can cause the coating to become sticky.

Ingredient substitutions

If you prefer, swap the cinnamon Chex cereal for plain or honey flavored Chex for a different but equally tasty twist. White chocolate chips can be replaced with cream cheese flavored chips for an unexpected tang. Feel free to use dried cherries instead of cranberries if you want a sweeter bite, and pumpkin seeds can be swapped with roasted pepitas or chopped nuts like pecans.

Serving suggestions

This mix pairs beautifully with warm apple cider or spiced tea. For a festive party presentation, fill small mason jars and tie with rustic twine or cinnamon sticks. It also makes a great snack for movie nights or as a holiday giveaway gift.

Pumpkin Spice Buddies make a quick festive snack for fall gatherings. Store in an airtight container or freeze for longer keeping.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of cereal is best for this mix?

Cinnamon-flavored Chex cereal provides a sturdy and crunchy base that pairs well with the sweet and spiced ingredients.

→ Can I substitute the cranberries with other dried fruits?

Yes, dried cherries or raisins work well and add a similar tartness and texture.

→ How do I melt the white chocolate safely?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

→ What is the role of powdered sugar in this mix?

Powdered sugar coats the mixture, adding sweetness and helping the chocolate adhere to the cereal and seeds.

→ How should I store this mix to keep it fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunchiness and flavor.