Sweet and savory mix with cocoa cereal, caramel popcorn, pretzels, and chocolate accents for a festive crunch.
# Components:
→ Crunchy Base
01 - 3 cups black cocoa cereal (Oreos or similar)
02 - 2 cups mini pretzel twists
03 - 1 cup caramel popcorn
→ Gold & Black Accents
04 - 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
05 - 1/2 cup chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional, adults only)
06 - 1/2 cup gold candy-coated chocolates (e.g., gold M&Ms)
07 - 1/2 cup gold star sprinkles or edible glitter
→ Sweet & Savory Coating
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons honey
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
# Directions:
01 - Set the oven to 325°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, mix black cocoa cereal, mini pretzel twists, and caramel popcorn until evenly distributed.
03 - Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in honey and sea salt until the mixture is smooth.
04 - Pour the butter mixture evenly over the cereal mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients uniformly.
05 - Spread the coated mix evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until aroma develops and mix begins to crisp.
06 - Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the mix to cool completely.
07 - Transfer cooled mix to a large bowl. Fold in dark chocolate chips, espresso beans if using, gold candy-coated chocolates, and gold star sprinkles. Toss gently and serve in bowls or package for gifting.
