Sticks And Stones
A savory snack mix blending crunchy chips, pretzels, popcorn, and nuts with flavorful spices and sauces, perfect for parties or casual snacking with bold, spicy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, curry powder, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt in a large bowl.
- Add the Fritos, Cheez-Its, popped corn, pretzel sticks, and peanuts to the bowl and stir well to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, increase the Tabasco sauce or add your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer a different flavor profile, substitute the curry powder with chili powder or smoked paprika. You can also swap out the peanuts for mixed nuts or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Ensure to stir the mixture occasionally while baking to achieve even crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this snack mix in a large bowl at gatherings or parties, perfect for game day or movie nights. It pairs beautifully with drinks like beer or soda. For a themed snack table, consider offering it alongside a cheese platter or chips and salsa to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to refresh the crunch, spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and reheat in a low oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make the texture chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sticks And Stones contains roughly 739 calories, with 21g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mix a day in advance. Just bake it and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will maintain its flavor and crunch, making it a perfect make-ahead snack.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pretzel sticks and check that the Fritos and Cheez-Its are gluten-free. There are several brands available that offer gluten-free options for both snacks.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover snack mix can be repurposed in various ways. Sprinkle it over salads for added crunch, use it as a topping for baked potatoes, or mix it into yogurt or cottage cheese for a quick snack. The possibilities are endless!
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).