Western Chex Brittle
Western Chex Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with caramelized brown sugar, peanuts, and crispy Chex cereal, perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat brown sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt to 250°F (hard-ball stage) in a heavy 4-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add peanuts and continue cooking over low heat to 285°F (brittle in cold water), stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in baking soda and margarine until well combined.
- Add Chex cereal and stir quickly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Work quickly and spread the mixture on a greased baking sheet.
- Separate into a thin layer with a greased fork.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Break into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, allow the brittle to cool completely before breaking it apart. You can substitute the cocktail peanuts with mixed nuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using a little extra brown sugar or adding a touch of vanilla extract during the mixing stage.
Serving Suggestions
Western Chex Brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but can also be crumbled over ice cream or yogurt for an added crunch. It pairs beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. Consider serving it at parties or as a homemade gift during the holidays to share with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Western Chex Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain its crispness, avoid refrigerating it, as moisture can make the brittle chewy. If you need to reheat, place it in a low oven for a few minutes to restore crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Chex Brittle contains roughly 86 calories, with 0g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute Corn Chex with other cereals like Rice Chex or even a mix of your favorite cereals. Just ensure that the cereal is sturdy enough to hold up against the syrup mixture without becoming soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make Western Chex Brittle vegan, replace the margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Ensure that the corn syrup you use is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain additives that aren't vegan.
How can I make the brittle less sticky?
To reduce stickiness, ensure that you allow the mixture to cool fully before breaking it into pieces. Additionally, you can lightly grease your hands or the cutting surface to help with separation. Using a thin layer will also help it cool faster and reduce stickiness.
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).