Molasses-spiced magic in every crunchy, sweet bite.
Let’s Talk About This Snack…
There’s something about gingerbread that just feels like a warm hug, right? This Gingerbread Cookie Chex Mix is my go-to when I want to whip up something cozy, sweet, crunchy, and just a little bit different.
It’s like a Christmas cookie met a cereal party and said, “Let’s make magic together.”
You’ll taste warm cinnamon, spicy ginger, sweet molasses, and just a little crunch from cereal and cookie bits.
Toss in some marshmallows? Game over.
🍴 What You’ll Need
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed gingerbread cookies or gingersnaps
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this after a holiday party where someone brought a plain sweet Chex mix. I thought, “What if it tasted like gingerbread cookies?” And well… here we are.
- It tastes like the holidays in every bite
- It’s super quick—like 15 minutes quick
- It’s great for gifting (or hoarding for yourself, no shame)
- Sweet, crunchy, and a little gooey—perfect combo
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Molasses acts like a sticky binder and brings deep flavor from the caramelized sugar. The butter helps the sugar melt evenly and coat the cereal. Baking it crisps everything up while setting the glaze. Cinnamon and ginger? They activate your senses with warmth and spice.
⏱️ Time + Servings
Servings: Makes about 8 cups (serves 8–10)
Time: 10 minutes prep, 15 minutes bake, 25 minutes total
❗ Common Mistakes
- Overbaking: Makes it bitter or too hard. 15 minutes is perfect.
- Not stirring halfway: This helps everything coat evenly and bake crisp.
- Pouring hot syrup over marshmallows: It melts them. Wait to add after baking.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Makes cleanup harder and causes sticking.
🧊 Make Ahead Tips
Make it up to 5 days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temp.
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Parchment paper
- Large baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Use Golden Grahams instead of Rice Chex
- Add chopped pecans or almonds
- Sub honey or maple syrup for molasses (flavor will be lighter)
- Swap white chocolate drizzle with dark chocolate
- Use cinnamon graham crackers if you don’t have ginger cookies
👩🍳 Instructions: How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Chex Mix
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Stuff
In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of Rice Chex cereal and 1 cup of crushed gingerbread cookies. Gently toss to combine.
Step 3: Make the Gingerbread Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup molasses, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger, and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir until smooth and bubbly (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla.
Step 4: Pour Syrup Over Cereal
Slowly pour the warm syrup over the Chex and cookies. Use a spatula to toss gently until coated.
Step 5: Bake to Set the Coating
Spread the coated mixture onto your lined baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Step 6: Cool and Add Final Touches
Let the mix cool completely. Then toss in 1 cup mini marshmallows and drizzle with melted white chocolate if using.
🧊 Leftovers + Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag and thaw before serving.
🥨 What to Serve With This
- Hot cocoa or chai lattes
- A charcuterie board with nuts and dried fruit
- Ice cream (sprinkled on top—yum)
- Holiday movie night snacks
🤔 FAQ
Q: Can I use other cereals?
Yes! Golden Grahams or Cinnamon Toast Crunch both work great.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free cereal and cookies.
Q: How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Make sure it cools completely before storing.
Q: Can I skip the bake?
Technically yes, but baking really locks in that flavor and crunch.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Cookie Chex Mix is simple, cozy, and just the kind of snack that makes people go whoa, what is this?? when they try it. Give it a go, and let me know how yours turns out in the comments! Share any questions or fun twists you tried—I love hearing how your kitchen magic happens.
