Sweet Springtime Medley

Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix: The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Easter Treat

Craft this delightful Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix using my simple recipe, or get creative with your pantry staples! Each piece is lovingly covered in smooth almond bark, creating an irresistible sweet and salty combination that promises to be a hit at any spring gathering.

 

Close-up of vibrant Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix, showcasing colorful candies and coated pretzels.

With Easter weekend just around the corner, many of us are preparing for festive celebrations. While a classic carrot might do for the Easter Bunny, why not truly impress with something a little more special and utterly delicious? This Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix is exactly that – a vibrant, textural wonderland brimming with a delightful assortment of popcorn, various cereals, crunchy corn chips, savory pretzels, soft marshmallows, roasted peanuts, and colorful M&M’s. It’s not just a snack; it’s a celebration in every bite, perfect for sharing with family, friends, and even our favorite floppy-eared visitor.

 

Assortment of ingredients for Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix spread out on a tray.

Why You’ll Adore This Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix

This isn’t just another snack mix; it’s a carefully crafted medley designed to captivate your taste buds and brighten any spring occasion. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become your new seasonal favorite:

  • Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up a generous batch of this delectable treat in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy hosts or when you need a quick, impressive snack.
  • A Symphony of Textures: From the airy crunch of popcorn and cereals to the crisp bite of pretzels and the satisfying chew of marshmallows, every handful offers a delightful textural experience.
  • Irresistible Sweet & Salty Balance: The magic truly happens when the creamy sweetness of almond bark meets the savory notes of corn chips and pretzels. This addictive combination keeps everyone coming back for more.
  • Fully Customizable: While I provide a fantastic recipe, the beauty of this snack mix lies in its flexibility. Easily substitute ingredients with what you have on hand, making it a resourceful and creative kitchen adventure.
  • Visually Stunning & Festive: Adorned with pastel M&M’s, bunny-shaped marshmallows, and colorful sprinkles, this mix is a feast for the eyes, perfectly embodying the fresh, joyful spirit of spring and Easter.
  • Kid-Friendly Fun: This is a fantastic recipe to involve the little ones! They can help with mixing, adding sprinkles, and of course, taste-testing. It’s a wonderful activity that results in a delicious reward.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, a casual spring get-together, a school event, or simply want a special treat for movie night, this snack mix is universally loved.

^Pin This Delightful Recipe for Later!^

SOME OF THE ITEMS BELOW CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS; I AM A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR ME TO EARN FEES BY LINKING TO AMAZON.COM AND AFFILIATED SITES. I AM ALSO AN AFFILIATE FOR OTHER BRANDS. HOWEVER, I ONLY PROMOTE THINGS THAT I LOVE AND THINK YOU WILL LOVE, TOO. FOR MY ENTIRE DISCLOSURE POLICY PLEASE CLICK HERE.

Explore the Wonderful World of Snack Mixes

There is nothing like a BIG BOWL of Snack Mix or Popcorn to delight a crowd. This collection has something for EVERYONE! I mean E V E R Y O N E — sweet, spicy, chocolate covered, healthy, fruits, nuts and everything in between. Perfect for gift giving, or party throwing!

 

If you’re anything like me, snack mixes and creative popcorn recipes are an absolute passion! The sheer versatility of these treats makes them a go-to for any occasion. Whether it’s a simple concoction to enjoy by the pool on a warm day, an exciting seasoning blend to add a kick to movie night, or a luxurious candy coating to satisfy the most intense sweet tooth, the possibilities are truly endless. Our comprehensive collection of popcorn and snack mixes offers a plethora of options to suit every palate and every event. From savory to sweet, spicy to chocolate-covered, and even healthier options featuring fruits and nuts, you’re sure to find something that perfectly fits your craving or celebration. They’re ideal for thoughtful gift-giving or for becoming the star of your next party!

 

Crafting Your Spring Snack Mix: The Ingredients

Various snack mix ingredients, including cereals, pretzels, and chips, laid out on a baking sheet before coating.

Today’s Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix draws inspiration from my popular White Trash Mix, but with a vibrant, seasonal twist designed specifically for spring. The key is to blend a delightful assortment of sweet and salty components, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that keeps you reaching for more. For this festive rendition, I’ve carefully selected:

  • Frosted Cheerios: These provide a gentle sweetness and a satisfying, airy crunch.
  • Rice Chex Cereal: A classic snack mix base, offering a light, crisp texture that beautifully absorbs the candy coating.
  • Pretzels: Essential for that perfect salty counterpoint, pretzels add a fantastic savory depth and structural integrity to the mix.
  • Animal Crackers: A touch of childhood nostalgia and a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the other elements.
  • Fritos Corn Chips: This might seem unconventional, but trust me, they are a game-changer! Their robust corn flavor and undeniable saltiness become incredibly addictive when coated in sweet almond bark. In fact, in my house, the Fritos are always the first to disappear from the bowl – that sweet almond bark combined with the salty corn chip is an unbeatable duo!
  • Golden Oreo Thins: Broken into pieces, these add another layer of cookie sweetness and a delicate crunch.

The secret to this snack mix’s undeniable appeal lies in the delicate dance between sweet and salty. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.

 

The Almond Bark & Colorful Additions

Ingredients for snack mix, including bunny marshmallows and colorful M&M's, ready to be coated.

To elevate this mix further, I actually prepared a batch of my famous “Crack Corn” separately. This allows for a double dose of deliciousness and an even more dynamic flavor experience. After the main snack mix ingredients are generously coated in creamy vanilla almond bark, everything is tossed together to create a cohesive, irresistible treat. The versatility of almond bark is incredible; it melts smoothly and sets quickly, providing that perfect candy shell.

 

Melted almond bark being poured over the dry snack mix ingredients.

To truly make this snack mix sing with spring cheer, I incorporated a delightful array of seasonal embellishments. You’ll find adorable bunny-shaped pastel marshmallows, a generous helping of both peanut and regular pastel M&M’s, and two different kinds of festive sprinkles. For this particular occasion, I even prepared a double batch to ensure there was plenty for all the upcoming weekend festivities! A little secret to making your mix even more visually appealing: I tinted my almond bark with a touch of food coloring, creating a beautiful soft pink hue. If tinting isn’t your preference, or you’re looking for an even wider range of colors, you can easily substitute candy melts in place of the almond bark for equally stunning results.

 

Close-up of bunny and carrot shaped sprinkles from Wilton, scattered over candy-coated snack mix.

And how utterly charming are those Bunny & Carrot Sprinkles from Wilton? They add the perfect touch of whimsy and festive flair!

 

Tips for Easy Preparation & Cleanup

Close-up of snack mix ingredients being gently tossed on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable snack-making experience, a crucial tip is to always line your cookie sheets. I highly recommend using either parchment paper or a Silpat mat. Not only does this prevent sticking, making it significantly easier to toss and coat your ingredients evenly, but it also simplifies cleanup immensely. Once your mix is coated and spread out, it’s essential to allow the candy coating ample time to set. This step ensures that each piece retains its individual crunch and doesn’t clump together, creating a perfectly delightful texture in every bite. Patience here truly pays off!

 

Candy-coated snack mix spread evenly on a baking sheet to set, featuring pastel colors and sprinkles.

Once the candy coating has fully set, it’s time for the final magical step! Gently combine your coated snack mix with the prepared popcorn. For an extra touch of spring festivity, I coated my popcorn with beautiful pink sugar crystals, adding another layer of sweetness and visual appeal. This step, where all the diverse components come together, is incredibly satisfying. It’s also a fantastic activity to do with children – they love seeing all the colorful elements combine into one magnificent snack! The entire process is a wonderful way to create lasting memories while preparing a truly special treat.

 

Finished Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix in a decorative bowl, ready to be served.

Doesn’t that look absolutely delicious and inviting? The combination of textures and the vibrant pastel colors truly capture the essence of spring. This mix isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience, bringing joy with every crunch. It’s a wonderful addition to any spring celebration, from casual family get-togethers to larger festive gatherings.

 

Rae Dunn Easter bowl filled with Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix, a perfect presentation.

I simply adore my Rae Dunn pieces, and this Easter bowl is absolutely the cutest way to present this cheerful snack mix! The simple, elegant design complements the colorful treat perfectly, making it an even more appealing centerpiece for your spring table. Presentation can truly elevate the enjoyment of any dish.

 

Overhead view of a large bowl of Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix, adorned with sprinkles and pastel candies.

Make This Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix Your Own

One of the most exciting aspects of this Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix is its incredible adaptability. While the provided recipe creates a phenomenal treat, feel free to unleash your creativity and make it uniquely yours. Here are some ideas for customization:

  • Cereal Swaps: Experiment with other cereals like Corn Chex, Golden Grahams, or even plain Cheerios for a less sweet base.
  • Nutty Variations: Beyond peanuts, consider adding cashews, pecans, or mixed nuts for different textures and flavors. For a nut-free version, omit them entirely or use sunflower seeds.
  • Cookie & Cracker Alternatives: Instead of Golden Oreo Thins or animal crackers, try mini Nilla Wafers, broken graham crackers, or even shortbread cookies.
  • Candy Creations: Don’t limit yourself to M&M’s! Add pastel jelly beans, chopped white chocolate chips, or other small spring-themed candies.
  • Flavor Infusions: A few drops of almond extract or vanilla extract can be added to the melted almond bark for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Holiday Adaptations: This recipe isn’t just for spring! Change the colors of your candy melts/bark and sprinkles to suit any holiday – red and green for Christmas, orange and black for Halloween, or red, white, and blue for patriotic celebrations.

The key is to maintain a good balance of dry ingredients to candy coating. If you significantly change the volume of dry mix, you might need to adjust the amount of almond bark accordingly. Aim for equal measurements of each dry ingredient to ensure even coating and a harmonious blend.

Happy Easter and Happy Snacking!

This Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to celebrate the joyous season with a simple, yet utterly delightful treat. Whether you’re making it for a large gathering or a quiet afternoon indulgence, its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors are sure to bring smiles. So gather your ingredients, enlist some eager helpers, and let’s create some delicious memories this spring!

Michaela Kenkel's signature.

 

 

Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix Recipe

LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!

Up close of Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix

Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix

You can follow my recipe or substitute with what you have leftover in your pantry to make this Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix! It’s covered in almond bark for a sweet and salty treat everyone will enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 25 mins

Course: Popcorn & Snack Mixes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix

Servings: 16 cups

Calories: 400 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

  • For the Popcorn:
  • 2 bags microwave popcorn (popped, unpopped kernels removed)
  • 3 squares almond bark
  • 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Sprinkles or sugar crystals
  • For the Snack Mix:
  • 2 cups Frito’s corn chips
  • 2 cups Rice Chex Cereal
  • 2 cups frosted Cheerios
  • 1 cup pretzels
  • 1 cup animal crackers
  • 1 cup salted peanuts
  • 1 cup Golden Oreo Thins (broken)
  • 2 cups pastel bunny marshmallows
  • 1 cup each peanut and regular pastel M&M candies
  • 6 squares almond bark
  • 4 Tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Place popcorn in a big bowl or a paper bag.
  2. Melt 3 squares of almond bark and 2 Tablespoons oil in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring as it melts.
  3. Pour melted almond bark over popcorn. Toss to coat. Add sprinkles.
  4. Combine Frito’s corn chips, Rice Chex Cereal, frosted Cheerios, pretzels, animal crackers, salted peanuts, and broken Golden Oreo Thins in a large bowl. Spread out on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
  5. Melt 6 squares of almond bark and 4 Tablespoons oil in the same way you do for the popcorn. (Tint with food coloring if desired for a festive touch).
  6. Pour melted almond bark over the snack mix ingredients on the cookie sheet, add sprinkles, and toss gently to coat all sides evenly.
  7. Spread the coated snack mix back out on the parchment-lined sheet to allow the candy coating to set completely.
  8. Once both the popcorn and snack mix coatings are set, combine them together. Mix in the pastel bunny marshmallows and M&M candies. Store the finished Spring Candy Coated Snack Mix in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

You can add whatever you want to this mix. If you switch it up, just use equal measurements for your dry ingredients to ensure you have enough candy coating for a consistent result. Feel free to explore other cereals, crackers, nuts, or candies to customize your perfect sweet and salty blend!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 375mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g