Peppermint Bark Chocolate Chex Mix

How This Easy Holiday Snack Saved My Christmas Prep

Christmas is next week. I know, I know. I’m excited but nowhere near ready. I keep thinking maybe Santa will lend me a few elves. I tried putting Caleb to work, but somehow that just adds more time. We have fun though, which is probably why I’m behind. If you’re in the same boat, I’ve got the perfect easy holiday snack for you: this Peppermint Bark Chex Mix. It’s ridiculously simple to throw together, and even simpler to eat. I’ve lost count of how many handfuls I’ve grabbed. Let’s just say a lot. This started as a twist on my Chocolate Coconut Chex Mix. I swapped the coconut for crushed candy canes and peppermint bark, and it became a holiday staple.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Chex Mix

• It comes together in about 15 minutes with no oven required, so you can make a batch even when you’re short on time.
• The contrast between crunchy cereal, melted chocolate, and crunchy candy cane pieces gives you three textures in every bite.
• It’s easy to double or triple for holiday gifting, and the red-and-white peppermint looks so festive in a cellophane bag.

Key Ingredients for This Holiday Treat

• Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate both work. Use a brand you like eating plain, because that flavor carries through. If you want a darker chocolate, go with 60% cacao chips.
• Crushed candy canes: Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan. You want small pieces, not powder. Some larger chunks are fine for texture.
• Peppermint bark: Store-bought peppermint bark (like Ghirardelli) works great. Chop it into bite-size pieces. You can also use homemade if you have it.

Kitchen Tools for This Christmas Snack

• Large mixing bowl for tossing the cereal with chocolate
• Medium microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate chips
• Baking sheet for spreading the mix to set
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring

Tips for Making the Best Peppermint Bark Chex Mix

When melting the chocolate chips, go slow. Microwave in 30-second bursts and stir each time. Chocolate can burn easily, and burnt chocolate ruins the whole batch. Once the chocolate is smooth, pour it over the Chex and stir gently but thoroughly. You want every piece coated, but you don’t want to crush the cereal. After you stir in the crushed candy canes, spread the mix on a baking sheet. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until the chocolate is dry. If you add the peppermint bark too soon, it will melt into the chocolate and lose its crunch. Wait until the chocolate is set, then stir in the bark pieces.

Gift Giving Tips for This Easy Holiday Snack

This Chex mix makes a fantastic homemade gift. Portion it into clear cellophane bags and tie with festive ribbon or twine. Add a small tag with the recipe name and a note. For a more substantial gift, layer the mix in a mason jar and attach a wooden scoop. You can also include a printed recipe card so the recipient can make it themselves. Because it keeps well at room temperature, you can prepare bags a few days ahead and hand them out at holiday gatherings.

Ways to Customize Your Peppermint Bark Chex Mix

If you want a different flavor, swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips. The white chocolate pairs beautifully with the peppermint. For a salty-sweet twist, toss in a cup of mini pretzels along with the Chex. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet version. And if you’re a marshmallow fan, stir in a handful of mini marshmallows after the chocolate sets. Just keep in mind they’ll soften over time, so add them right before serving.

How to Serve and Share This Christmas Snack

Serve this Chex mix in a big bowl for holiday parties. It’s also great portioned into small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for neighbors and coworkers. For a fun dessert, sprinkle a handful over vanilla ice cream or a bowl of hot chocolate. The crunch and peppermint flavor make it a festive topping.

How to Store Leftover Peppermint Bark Chex Mix

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, the chocolate may soften, so keep it in a cool spot.

Peppermint Bark Chex Mix FAQs