This TX Governors Mansion Chex Mix recipe takes the classic Chex Mix we all know and love and infuses it with bold ingredients. We’re talking smoky cumin, earthy oregano, a fiery kick of hot sauce, and the delightful crunch of pumpkin seeds. Get ready to ditch the store-bought bags because this homemade version is guaranteed to become your new favorite party mix or movie night companion!
Crunchy, savory snacks are my favorite – and Chex Mix is right up there with the best. About 20 years ago, my daughter’s fourth-grade class took a trip to Austin to visit the state capitol. I found a great cookbook in the gift shop that had recipes from various chefs and first ladies through the years at the Texas Governor’s Mansion in Austin. This recipe was developed by the chef at the Mansion while George W. Bush was the governor. According to legend, when he was in the White House, President Bush asked for Chex Mix and was disappointed by several different batches made for him. The White House chefs had to finally contact the chefs back in Austin to find out the magic formula to make the President happy.
This version of the recipe definitely makes my family and friends happy, and it’s the recipe I use almost every time I make Chex Mix. Some familiar ingredients and some new ones, along with a hotter-than-normal sauce, make this a unique and delicious snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: This recipe ditches the one-note taste of store-bought Chex Mix and adds new flavors! Cumin adds a warm, smoky depth, oregano brings in an earthy complexity, and the hot sauce delivers a satisfying kick that your taste buds are going to go crazy for!
- Crunchy & Nutty: We’re adding pumpkin seeds for an extra satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the spices perfectly. It’s sure to keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients Needed
- Butter
- Hot sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Cumin
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
- Chex: Make this Chex mix gluten-free by substituting the wheat Chex with additional Rice or Corn Chex.
- Pumpkin seeds
- Mixed nuts: Omit the nuts for a nut-free, allergy-friendly Chex mix.
- Pretzels
How to Make TX Governors Mansion Chex Mix
Throwing together this Chex Mix is a breeze! Just toss everything together and bake it all up until golden brown and crispy.
- Preheat oven to 300. Line two large baking sheets with foil.
- Melt butter and mix in all spices.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Pour butter mixture over cereal mixture and toss to coat well.
- Spread mixture evenly between the two baking sheets.
- Bake at 300 for 45 minutes, stirring and rotating baking pans every 15 minutes.
- Place on paper towels to cool, then place in a large airtight container.
Storage Information
Store your Chex Mix in an airtight container. This will help prevent the mix from getting stale or soggy by keeping out moisture and air. When properly stored, your homemade Chex Mix will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4-6 weeks.
Variations
- Love the heat? Up the ante with a dash of cayenne pepper or a different hot sauce.
- Not a fan of pretzels? No problem! Substitute them with bagel chips, mini rice cakes, or even popcorn for a lighter option.
- Feeling adventurous? Add a global flair! For an Asian-inspired mix, try sesame seeds, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of wasabi powder. Go Tex-Mex with a touch of chili powder and lime zest.
More Recipes to Try
- Sticky Bun Pull Apart Bread
- Crispy Rice Chocolate Log
- Angel Clouds
- Classic Cheese Ball
- Cinnamon Roll Biscuits