If you like bold flavors, this is your kind of snack. Texas Trash is a spicy twist on classic Chex mix that’s loaded with buttery heat, crunchy texture, and just the right mix of salty and savory. It’s perfect for parties, tailgating, holidays—or honestly, just munching on the couch. I make this one every year for game day and it disappears every single time.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this for a New Year’s Eve party one year because I wanted something different than the usual chips and dip. This spicy Chex mix stole the show. Since then, it’s become a regular go-to when I need a crowd-pleaser.
- Big spicy flavor in every bite
- Super customizable with whatever mix-ins you love
- Easy to make in big batches
- Lasts for days if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers
- Smells amazing while it’s baking
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup butter (unsalted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup powdered peanut butter (like PB2)
Servings & Time
Servings: About 12 cups
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes cooling)
Macros (Approx per 1 cup serving)
- Calories: 230
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Butter is the key. It melts and carries all the spices and seasoning, coating every nook and cranny of the cereal and mix-ins. Baking low and slow helps the mix crisp up without burning. Worcestershire adds depth with its salty-sour-umami vibe, and the cayenne gives that slow-building heat.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much sauce: Makes the mix soggy, not crunchy
- Skipping the stirring: You’ve gotta toss it every 15 minutes so it bakes evenly
- Turning up the heat to speed it up: That’ll burn the bottom pieces
- Not letting it cool before storing: It steams itself and gets chewy
What to Serve With
- A cold beer or ranch water
- A cheese board or veggie tray
- Chili or sliders for game day
- Holiday cookie trays for a salty-sweet combo
FAQ
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Cut the cayenne in half or leave it out altogether.
Can I double the recipe?
Totally. Just split it between two baking sheets.
What’s the best way to store it?
Airtight container at room temp for up to a week.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Not recommended. Butter gives better flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 5 days ahead. Let it cool fully and store it in an airtight container. Do not refrigerate—it’ll lose its crunch. If it gets soft, pop it in the oven at 250°F for 5-10 minutes to crisp it back up.
How to Make Texas Trash Spicy Chex Mix
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°F. This low heat will toast everything evenly without burning the bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 cups corn Chex
- 3 cups rice Chex
- 3 cups wheat Chex
- 1½ cups mini pretzels
- 1 cup cheese crackers
- 1 cup mixed nuts
Gently stir to combine so everything’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, add:
- 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup), melted
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Stir until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Mix
Slowly pour the spicy butter sauce over the cereal mix. Use a spatula to gently fold it all together until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated mix into an even layer.
Step 6: Bake Low and Slow
Bake at 250°F for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This helps toast everything evenly and keeps the seasoning from burning.
Step 7: Cool It Down
Remove from the oven and let the mix cool completely on the baking sheet. It will get crispier as it cools.
Step 8: Serve or Store
Once completely cool, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This spicy Texas Trash Chex Mix brings the heat, the crunch, and the flavor. It’s easy, reliable, and guaranteed to be the first bowl empty at any get-together. Once you make it, it’ll become your signature snack. Try it once, and you’ll know exactly why it’s called Texas Trash—you’ll be digging for crumbs at the bottom of the bowl.
