Critter Crunch
Critter Crunch is a sweet, crunchy snack mix with a cinnamon sugar coating, perfect for kids and parties, combining various animal-shaped and cereal treats for nostalgic fun.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and margarine in a small bowl.
- Microwave on High for 1 minute or until margarine melts.
- Add cinnamon to the margarine mixture and stir.
- Place animal shape crackers, honey bear shaped graham crackers, crisp corn-rice cereal squares, toasted oat cereal, tiny pretzels, and bite-sized wheat cereal biscuits with raisins in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle the margarine mixture over the mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using light brown sugar or substituting the margarine with coconut oil for a hint of tropical taste. You can also swap out the cereals for your favorite brands or use gluten-free options if needed. If you like a crunchier texture, extend the baking time by a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Critter Crunch is a delightful snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with gelato or yogurt for a fun dessert. Consider serving it at parties or as a topping for ice cream sundaes. For a complete treat, serve alongside Jim's Apple Pie or as a sweet addition to a picnic spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cool, store Critter Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a sealed bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature; no need to reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Critter Crunch contains roughly 994 calories, with 10g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 478mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of crackers or cereals in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible, allowing you to substitute your favorite crackers or cereals. Just keep the overall quantity the same, and feel free to experiment with flavors and textures that you enjoy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Critter Crunch vegan by using a plant-based margarine and ensuring that your crackers and cereals are dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits your dietary preferences.
How can I make Critter Crunch more festive for a holiday gathering?
To give Critter Crunch a festive twist, consider adding seasonal spices like nutmeg or ginger to the margarine mixture. You can also mix in festive candies or sprinkles before baking for a colorful touch, making it perfect for holiday parties.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).