Scarecrow Snack Mix Recipe: A Sweet & Salty Fall Snack for Kids
Fall is full of delicious snacks. But anyone looking for the ultimate fall snack for kids (and grown-ups) need look no further than the Scarecrow Snack Mix.
This sweet and salty blend has a little bit of everything: the crunch of popcorn and pretzels, the cozy spice of cinnamon Chex, and just the right amount of candy because scarecrows deserve a little fun, too. Itโs perfect for lunchboxes, movie nights, fall parties, or a snack on the hayride.
And the best part? It takes about five minutes to make, zero baking required. Whether just throwing it in a big bowl or scooping it into treat bags, this snack mix is a guaranteed fall favorite.
What Is a Scarecrow Snack Mix?
Scarecrow Snack Mix is the edible equivalent of a hayride wrapped in a fuzzy orange-plaid blanket. It’s a fall trail mix that balances just enough sugar to make it exciting with crunchy, satisfying bites to keep things interesting.
Imagine a mix where every handful feels like a surprise: a mini Reeseโs cup here, a salty pretzel there, a colorful pop of fall-colored M&Ms tucked between kernels of popcorn and crunchy cereal. This fall snack for kids is cozy, crunchy, and itโs got major autumn vibes.
Ingredients:
Hereโs what youโll need to whip up a batch of this fall-fabulous snack mix:
- 2 cups pretzel sticks
- 2 cups cinnamon Chex cereal
- 2 cups popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted works best)
- 1 cup candy corn
- 1 cup mini Reeseโs cups (unwrapped)
- 1 cup fall-colored M&Ms (orange, yellow, and green for that harvest look)
Optional add-ins:
- Honey-roasted peanuts
- Caramel corn
- Pumpkin seeds
How to Make a Scarecrow Snack Mix:
Step 1: Grab a Big Bowl
Use a large mixing bowl to start, big enough to stir all the ingredients in this easy fall party snack together without losing pieces over the edge.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add the cinnamon Chex and popcorn first. These are the “base” ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Stuff
Next, toss in the pretzel sticks, candy corn, mini Reeseโs cups, and fall M&Ms.
Step 4: Mix Gently
Use a spoon or clean hands to mix everything together. Mix gently to avoid crushing the cereal or popcorn.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Serve it in a big bowl for snacking, scoop it into paper cups, or portion it into clear treat bags tied with ribbon for easy grab-and-go options. Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to a week, but good luck making it last that long.
Why Kids Love This Fall Trail Mix
Scarecrow Snack Mix is delicious and fun. Every handful feels like a mini treasure hunt, and the mix of colors and textures keeps kids coming back for more. Itโs perfect for after-school snacks, lunchbox surprises, or even fall-themed movie nights.
The mini Reeseโs cups give it that chocolate-peanut-butter magic, and the candy corn? Love it or hate it, it screams โfall snack for kidsโ. Add in the satisfying crunch of pretzels and cinnamon Chex, and itโs basically autumn in a bowl.
An Easy Fall Party Snack
Hosting a classroom harvest celebration? This fall snack mix for kids makes a simple and budget-friendly treat. Just portion into individual bags or cups, and itโs sure to be the cutest party favor around.
Want to make it a craft activity? Let kids make a custom mix from a DIY snack bar. Lay out each ingredient in separate bowls and let them scoop, stir, and name their creations.
Variations to Try:
- Allergy-friendly: Use dairy-free chocolate chips, nut-free candy, and a gluten-free cereal to make this mix inclusive for everyone.
- Chocolate drizzle: Melt a little white or milk chocolate and drizzle over the mix before letting it set for 10โ15 minutes. Instant dessert vibes.
- Mini marshmallows: Want to make it even more snack-worthy? Toss in a handful of mini marshmallows for that cozy, campfire feel.
- Spooky switch: Want to shift from fall trail mix to something more spooky? Swap in purple and black candies or throw in a few candy eyeballs for a Halloween twist.
Make It Ahead
Scarecrow Snack Mix can be made up to a week ahead and stored in a sealed container at room temperature. That makes it perfect for planning ahead for parties or road trips. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute any candies that may have settled.
Pro tip: It travels well, so it’s perfect for lunchboxes, soccer games, or trail-side snacking on the next great pumpkin patch adventure.
This Kid-Friendly Fall Recipe is a Must-Make
This Scarecrow Snack Mix hits all the right notes. Itโs playful, itโs colorful, and it tastes like fall in every bite. Whether hosting a party, packing lunchboxes, or just need a snack that brings smiles to the table, this mix delivers. Itโs the ideal kid-friendly fall recipe.
So grab that mixing bowl, pop some popcorn, and prepare to whip up the easiest, yummiest, most autumn-filled treat that has been made all year. Bonus points if served in a scarecrow hat or with a pumpkin-themed scoop.
Snack happy, and donโt be surprised if the โgrown-upโ table stops by to steal a few handfuls.
