Hartwell'S Special
Hartwell's Special is a rich, sweet treat featuring Chex cereal, nuts, and chocolate, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Melt in the microwave until the mixture becomes soupy, stirring well.
- Pour the melted mixture over the Chex cereal, peanuts, and pecans in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Put powdered sugar in a large bag, then drop the coated mixture into the bag and shake to coat each piece.
- Spread the coated mixture on wax paper to cool and set.
- If lumps form, separate and break them apart before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. To avoid lumps, make sure to mix the coated cereal thoroughly before adding it to the bag with powdered sugar. If you want a different twist, try adding some dried fruit to the mix for extra texture and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hartwell's Special as a snack during movie nights or as a sweet treat at parties. It pairs beautifully with Frankie'S Butterscotch Dessert for a delightful dessert spread. For a fun twist, consider adding a scoop of ice cream on the side for a tasty combination that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you find the mixture getting too soft, you can place it in the refrigerator to help it firm up again. Reheat is not necessary, as it is best enjoyed at room temperature, maintaining its crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hartwell'S Special contains roughly 914 calories, with 7g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cereal in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Chex cereal with other cereals like Rice Krispies or even granola for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure whatever you choose is similar in size to maintain the balance of ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of chocolate chips or use dark chocolate for a healthier option. Additionally, consider using a natural nut butter without added sugars or oils. You can also add some seeds or dried fruits for extra nutrition.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Hartwell's Special vegan, substitute the margarine with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure that the peanut butter you choose is free from added sugars or dairy products to keep it completely plant-based.
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).