Nuts, Bolts, and Screws Party Mix
Savory party mix with Cheerios, Chex, pretzels, pecans and a garlicky butter glaze. Easy make-ahead snack that stays crisp for weeks.
This is a recipe that my sister-in-law made every Christmas and would give to friends to enjoy. I got the recipe and continued the tradition until a few years ago. It is fun to make and is so nice to share with friends and neighbors to enjoy. It can be made anytime of the year. Since I had not made it in some time, this is when I tried to find the spice Beau Monde and was surpirsed that it was no longer available in the local grocers. Thanks to The Spice House, I will be able to continue my Christmas tradition.
Submitted by: Ruby Pierola from Tampa, Fl
Yield: This makes a large amount of party mix
- This recipe makes a very large batch of crunchy, savory snack using cereals, pretzels, and pecans coated in melted margarine and seasonings.
- Bake low and slow at 200 F for about 2.5 hours, stirring every 15 to 20 minutes so the mix dries evenly and stays crisp.
- Cool completely and store in airtight containers. The mix keeps for weeks and is great for gifting.
Preparation Instructions:
thespicehouse.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, but expect a different result. Butter gives a richer flavor but can brown or separate faster. If you use butter, watch closely and reduce oven time slightly to prevent burning. Margarine is recommended for a lighter, longer-lasting coating.
What is Bloody Mary Mate and what can I use instead?
Bloody Mary Mate is a savory seasoning or mix used for a tangy, spiced flavor. If you cannot find it, substitute Old Bay, Cajun or Creole seasoning, or a blend of celery salt, paprika, a pinch of horseradish powder, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
How should I store the party mix and how long does it last?
Let the mix cool completely, then put it in airtight containers or zip bags. Stored at room temperature, it stays fresh for 2 to 4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in sealed bags for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Can I make this recipe nut free?
Yes. Omit the pecans and replace them with extra pretzels, more Chex or Cheerios, or roasted seeds such as sunflower seeds if allergies allow. Also watch for cross-contact if you are serving someone with severe nut allergies.
How can I reduce the salt or make a lower sodium version?
Cut back the garlic salt or swap it for garlic powder plus a small amount of plain salt so you control sodium. Use low-sodium margarine or reduce the overall seasoning. Taste and adjust before baking.
Can I make a smaller batch or scale the recipe?
Yes. Scale ingredients proportionally. Smaller batches will dry faster, so check them sooner and reduce oven time. Keep stirring every 10 to 15 minutes for even coating.
Why do I need to stir every 15 to 20 minutes?
Stirring re-coats pieces, prevents clumping, and ensures even drying so nothing burns. It helps every piece crisp up uniformly during the long, low bake.
Can I bake at a higher temperature to shorten the time?
You can raise the temp slightly, but risk uneven cooking and browning. The low 200 F method gently dries the mix and keeps it crisp. If you increase temperature, reduce time and stir more often while watching closely.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, but expect a different result. Butter gives a richer flavor but can brown or separate faster. If you use butter, watch closely and reduce oven time slightly to prevent burning. Margarine is recommended for a lighter, longer-lasting coating.
What is Bloody Mary Mate and what can I use instead?
Bloody Mary Mate is a savory seasoning or mix used for a tangy, spiced flavor. If you cannot find it, substitute Old Bay, Cajun or Creole seasoning, or a blend of celery salt, paprika, a pinch of horseradish powder, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
How should I store the party mix and how long does it last?
Let the mix cool completely, then put it in airtight containers or zip bags. Stored at room temperature, it stays fresh for 2 to 4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in sealed bags for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Can I make this recipe nut free?
Yes. Omit the pecans and replace them with extra pretzels, more Chex or Cheerios, or roasted seeds such as sunflower seeds if allergies allow. Also watch for cross-contact if you are serving someone with severe nut allergies.
How can I reduce the salt or make a lower sodium version?
Cut back the garlic salt or swap it for garlic powder plus a small amount of plain salt so you control sodium. Use low-sodium margarine or reduce the overall seasoning. Taste and adjust before baking.
Can I make a smaller batch or scale the recipe?
Yes. Scale ingredients proportionally. Smaller batches will dry faster, so check them sooner and reduce oven time. Keep stirring every 10 to 15 minutes for even coating.
Why do I need to stir every 15 to 20 minutes?
Stirring re-coats pieces, prevents clumping, and ensures even drying so nothing burns. It helps every piece crisp up uniformly during the long, low bake.
Can I bake at a higher temperature to shorten the time?
You can raise the temp slightly, but risk uneven cooking and browning. The low 200 F method gently dries the mix and keeps it crisp. If you increase temperature, reduce time and stir more often while watching closely.
This is by far the best chex mix recipe going. If you haven’t tried it, you’re really missing out on wonderful snacking. With Super Bowl around the corner, your recipe will be gone before the half!
I also have this recipe (since Ruby Pierola is my Mother), and it is excellent. Everyone enjoys this snack. I always look forward to Christmas because I know she will be making this recipe.
Hope everyone enjoys this recipe!
Sandi