Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

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Looking for a bold, zesty snack with a satisfying crunch? This Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix is your answer. Bursting with tangy buffalo flavor, hints of creamy ranch, and just the right level of heat, it takes your everyday snack mix to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a road trip snack, or simply binge-watching your favorite show, this mix will have everyone reaching back for more.

Forget the bland bagged stuff—homemade is where it’s at. This version is oven-baked to perfection, giving you toasty Chex cereal, crisp pretzels, and crunchy nuts all evenly coated in that irresistible spicy buffalo seasoning. It’s quick to prepare, ultra-customizable, and downright addictive.

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Why You’ll Love This Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

• It’s got bold flavor: The buffalo sauce brings a spicy kick while ranch seasoning mellows it out with a cool, creamy twist.
• Perfect for crowds: Make a big batch and serve at parties, game nights, or holiday gatherings.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and oven-baked.
• Crunch overload: Every bite is loaded with crispy textures you can’t resist.

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What Kind of Chex Cereal Should I Use?

You can mix and match your favorite varieties, but Rice Chex and Corn Chex work best here due to their neutral flavor and great crunch. Wheat Chex adds an extra nutty depth, but be mindful that it absorbs more seasoning and gets a bit denser. A blend of all three adds variety to the texture and taste.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

Each component of this mix plays a role in building bold flavor and satisfying crunch.

• Rice Chex Cereal: Light and airy, these square crisps are perfect for soaking up all the seasoning.
• Corn Chex Cereal: Adds a slightly sweet corn flavor and a sturdier crunch.
• Wheat Chex Cereal: Offers a hearty texture and more bite, balancing the lighter cereals.
• Mini Pretzels: A salty, snappy addition that adds contrast in shape and flavor.
• Roasted Peanuts or Cashews: For extra protein and a rich, buttery flavor.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: The heart of the heat—adds tang, spice, and signature buffalo flavor.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Balances the spice with a creamy, herby profile.
• Butter: Helps the seasoning coat everything evenly and adds richness.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and savory notes.
• Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavor with a subtle sweetness.

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How To Make the Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and peanuts. Toss everything together gently.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in buffalo wing sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until fully combined and warmed through.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Slowly pour the buffalo ranch mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring constantly to ensure everything gets coated evenly.

Step 5: Bake for the Crunch

Spread the mix out evenly on your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the trays. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.

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How to Store and Serve Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

This snack mix serves about 10 people as a party snack or casual nibbler. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container or resealable bags. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, though it rarely lasts that long!

For parties, serve in large bowls or portion into cups or snack bags for easy grab-and-go munching. Perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or holiday snack tables.

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What to Serve With Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chex Mix

Classic Veggie Platter

Pair this mix with a refreshing veggie tray and a cool ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the heat.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Double down on buffalo flavor by serving alongside mini buffalo chicken sandwiches.

Cold Beer or Sparkling Water

The spicy kick goes beautifully with a crisp drink—something cold to contrast the heat.

Cheese Cubes or a Charcuterie Board

Mix and match textures and flavors with a spread of cheeses, meats, and fruit.

Creamy Dips

Serve next to a creamy spinach-artichoke dip or queso blanco for rich contrast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This mix stays crunchy and flavorful for up to two weeks when stored properly. Make it a few days ahead of your event to save time.

2. How spicy is this mix?
The heat is moderate, depending on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, cut the buffalo sauce in half or add a little honey to mellow the spice.

3. Is there a dairy-free option?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter and check your ranch seasoning mix for dairy-free versions. This tweak still keeps all the flavor.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pretzels and double-check that your Chex cereals are gluten-free (Rice and Corn Chex usually are). Also, use a gluten-free buffalo sauce and seasoning.

5. Where can I find more party snacks like this?
Browse our Snack Recipes collection or explore our Easy Party Foods section for more crowd-pleasing ideas.

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